Comedian and media personality MC Jessy has sparked debate after advising women against the idea of “growing with a man” from the beginning of a relationship.
The comedian shared the advice while discussing relationships, marriage, money and personal development during an interview with media personality Chris The Bass on the Tubonge podcast.
Jessy’s comments, which circulated widely online, centred on the argument that women should first establish themselves financially and personally rather than build their futures around men who are still trying to find their footing.
“Ladies, stop this nonsense of growing with a man. Because if you grow with them, they’ll grow and leave you behind,” Jessy said.
He added that some men may eventually move on to other women after achieving the success they pursued while in the relationship.
“And if you grow together, he’ll go find another lady to help her grow,” he said.
Jessy favoured the latter approach, encouraging women to focus on their own financial security and personal development before settling down.
“Let’s look at it economically. Eh, huyu jamaa ako na mshahara yake hapa. Wife maybe ako na mshahara yake mahali yako, sindio? Ndio mtataka mcombine mgrow pamoja. Ni sawa, si mbaya. Mi sijasema ni mbaya,” he explained.
The comedian said his concern lies with making “growing together” the only available path when individuals can first build their own foundations.
“It’s just that it’s a route I don’t think I would want to encourage anybody to take. It’s the harder one. Why choose hard? Choose a softer hard,” he added.
Jessy also directed part of his advice towards young men, urging them to use their 20s to establish themselves financially before taking on the responsibilities that come with marriage and family life.
“In your 20s as a young man, have your own investment, make your money and ujipange kwanza,” he said.
The comedian’s remarks came as he discussed the pressure young people face to settle down early despite the financial responsibilities that come with relationships and marriage.
Jessy has also questioned why young people rush into marriage before determining whether they are prepared to handle the demands of the commitment.
“Sijui nini watu wanakimbilia ndoa, hiyo ni choice unamake, but are you ready to service that choice?” he posed.
