Media personality Janet Mbugua has called on Kenyans to rethink rigid societal expectations, insisting that fulfillment does not always come from following traditional milestones such as marriage, raising children, pursuing structured careers, or adhering to specific religious practices.
In a recent video, Mbugua reflected on the controversial phrase “marriage hubamba mafala” (loosely translating to “marriage excites fools”). While acknowledging the phrase’s provocative nature, she explained that it underscores an important truth: major life decisions like marriage are not suitable for everyone, and individuals should have the freedom to define their own happiness.
Redefining Happiness and Success
Mbugua observed that society has long celebrated benchmarks such as education, careers, family, and property ownership as the ultimate measures of success. Though valuable to many, she argued these paths can feel restrictive to others who seek alternative routes to fulfillment. For her, true contentment stems from living authentically, not from yielding to societal pressure.
Embracing Diverse Life Choices
She further emphasized the importance of respecting different life choices, urging people to “agree to disagree” without allowing differences to breed division.
“Not every choice will make sense to everyone, and it doesn’t have to,” she said, warning against using conventional milestones as universal yardsticks that diminish those walking unconventional paths.
Her remarks align with a growing generational shift where younger people are redefining stability and fulfillment on their own terms. She encouraged society to replace judgment with understanding, noting that diversity in personal choices enriches and strengthens communities.