To the world, Christine is a devoted wife. To her husband, she is the perfect homemaker. But to the man she just met—her secret lover—she is a different version of herself: free, wild, and unfiltered.

Christine’s story is not unique. Across Kenya, and indeed the world, infidelity has become an open secret in many marriages. Men and women—some happily married, others trapped in toxic unions—are seeking love, passion, or even just validation outside their matrimonial homes. But why? What is fueling these affairs, and what does it say about modern marriage?

Many affairs begin where marriage ends—emotionally. Couples who once burned with passion now live like roommates, their conversations limited to school fees, house repairs, and dinner plans. The excitement of dating, stolen kisses, and heart-racing surprises gets buried under daily responsibilities.

“I love my husband, but I feel like we are just business partners managing a home,” Christine admits. “My affair is not about love—it’s about feeling alive again.”

For many, cheating isn’t just about physical attraction; it’s about being seen and heard. In some marriages, one partner feels neglected, unheard, or taken for granted.

Michael, a 42-year-old banker, has been married for 15 years. His wife is a great mother and a responsible woman, but he feels emotionally abandoned.

“She’s always tired, always busy with the kids. When I try to talk to her about my day, she’s scrolling through her phone. I started confiding in a female colleague, and before I knew it, we had crossed the line,” he confesses.

Hell hath no fury like a spouse scorned. Some partners cheat as a way of getting back at their significant others. Whether it’s after discovering infidelity, enduring years of emotional abuse, or feeling unappreciated, revenge affairs are becoming more common.

“When I found out my husband was cheating, I was devastated,” says Beatrice, 39. “I confronted him, but he denied it. I was so angry and hurt that I started my own affair. It wasn’t about love—I just wanted him to feel what I felt.”

For some, the act of cheating is less about dissatisfaction in their marriage and more about the adrenaline rush that comes with secrecy.

“There’s something intoxicating about sneaking around,” says Kevin, 35, who has been in a long-term affair. “It’s like being in high school again—sneaking texts, secret rendezvous, the fear of getting caught. The risk makes it more exciting.”

Technology has made infidelity easier than ever. A simple "Hey" in a DM can reignite an old flame or spark a new connection. WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram have become modern-day matchmakers for people seeking attention outside their marriages.

“There are women who message me out of nowhere,” says Dan, 38. “Some are married, some are single, but all of them want something they’re missing in their lives.”

When the bedroom goes cold, many people start looking elsewhere for warmth. Sexual dissatisfaction is one of the leading reasons for extramarital affairs. Some partners complain that their spouses lost interest in intimacy, while others say their desires no longer align.

“I used to beg my wife for intimacy,” says Brian, 41. “At some point, I just gave up. When another woman showed interest, I didn’t resist.”

Despite the excitement, secrecy, and pleasure affairs bring, they often come with devastating consequences. Marriages crumble, children suffer, and once-trusted partners become bitter enemies.

Some, however, choose to forgive and rebuild.

“My husband cheated, but I chose to stay,” says Janet, 45. “We went for counseling, and though it’s not easy, we are trying. I don’t want to throw away 20 years of marriage over a mistake.”

In a world where temptation lurks at every corner, the question remains—can modern marriages survive? While some argue that affairs are a symptom of deeper issues, others believe true love and commitment can withstand any storm.

Perhaps, the key lies in rekindling the spark, communicating openly, and remembering why two people fell in love in the first place. Because in the end, no affair—no matter how thrilling—can replace the security of a loyal partner who chooses you every single day.

What do you think? Can a marriage survive infidelity, or is cheating an unforgivable betrayal?

Mungwana's journey from a dedicated educator to a revered political figure is a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service. His approachable demeanor and genuine concern for the community have endeared him to constituents across Embu County. Unlike many politicians, Mungwana remains deeply connected to the grassroots, consistently engaging with residents to address their concerns and aspirations.

Manyatta Constituency stands as a pivotal region in Embu's political arena, boasting a rich voter base that can significantly influence election outcomes. Mungwana's deep-rooted ties to this area provided Kivuti's 2022 campaign with a substantial advantage, rallying immense support from Manyatta's electorate. This strategic alliance underscored the importance of regional representation and the impact of local leadership on county-wide elections.

Throughout their political journey, Kivuti has consistently showcased his trust and respect for Mungwana. At numerous public functions, Kivuti introduces Mungwana as his deputy, signaling a robust and collaborative partnership. This camaraderie not only reflects their mutual respect but also their shared vision for Embu's development.

In many occasions, Mungwana lays the foundation of Lenny Kivuti to enter ground and move that has always attracted accolades.

As the 2027 elections loom, political analysts and constituents alike emphasize the necessity for Kivuti to retain Mungwana as his running mate. Mungwana's unparalleled connection with the electorate, especially in the vote-rich Manyatta Constituency, positions him as an invaluable asset to any gubernatorial bid. His reputation as a down-to-earth leader, coupled with his extensive experience in both public and private sectors, equips him with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within Embu County.

The political arena is set for a riveting contest as Kivuti prepares to challenge the incumbent governor, Cecily Mbarire, in the upcoming elections. Mbarire's victory in 2022, albeit by a narrow margin, highlighted the competitiveness of Embu's gubernatorial race. To bolster his chances in 2027, Kivuti's alliance with Mungwana could serve as a decisive factor, potentially swaying the electorate in their favor.

The dynamics between Lenny Kivuti and Joseph Ireri Nyaga epitomizes a strategic and heartfelt collaboration aimed at propelling Embu County towards progressive development. Retaining Mungwana as a running mate not only solidifies support from key constituencies but also reinforces a leadership model rooted in humility, accessibility, and unwavering dedication to public service. As the 2027 elections approach, this partnership stands poised to reshape Embu's political landscape, offering a vision of inclusive growth and community-centric governance.

In Kitui town, the Muslim community received 310 bags of rice and 260 bags of beans donated by the National government in various areas of Kitui town for celebrating Ramadan month and upholding the Muslim faith.

As the tradition of Muslims, they observe the holiness of this community which is marked by fasting, reflection, charity and prayer.

The government donated relief food in Mutomo, Mwingi and Kitui towns and their neighboring areas where Muslims reside. This was geared towards helping them after fasting to enable the believers hold on their faith to Allah.

Addressing the media at the Township Chief's office, Kitui County Commissioner Kipchumba Rutto said that after fasting, Muslims should get enough food and it was a way of sharing with the less privileged.

"This relief food is supplied to Muslim community first to help them fast and get enough food after during the sunrise (Fajr) and sunset (Maghrib) and to reflect on Islamic teachings and deepen Islamic practices.", said the Kitui county commissioner.

At the heart of the crisis is the freeze of foreign aid, particularly from the United States, which has been a major donor to Kenya’s HIV response. For years, the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has played a crucial role in ensuring the availability of ARVs, funding up to 70% of Kenya’s HIV treatment programs. However, with recent political and financial constraints, aid has been delayed, leaving essential medication stranded in warehouses while patients across the country struggle to access their daily doses.

The impact of this disruption has been devastating. Many HIV-positive individuals, who have depended on consistent medication to suppress the virus and maintain their health, now find themselves on the brink of treatment failure. In counties such as Kisumu, Homa Bay, and Siaya—areas with some of the highest HIV prevalence rates—hospitals and clinics have reported dwindling supplies, with some completely running out of medication. Patients are being forced to ration their pills, skipping doses in an effort to make their remaining stock last longer.

For many, this is a life-threatening situation. Consistent use of ARVs is crucial in managing HIV, as interruptions can lead to drug resistance, making treatment less effective over time. Additionally, those who are unable to take their medication risk an increase in viral load, which not only endangers their health but also raises the likelihood of transmission to others. This is a major setback in the country’s fight against the epidemic, considering that Kenya had made significant progress in reducing new infections in recent years.

The psychological toll on those affected is just as severe. Many HIV-positive individuals are already grappling with stigma and discrimination, and the added uncertainty of not knowing when or where they will get their next dose has intensified their anxiety. Support groups and community-based organizations have been receiving an influx of distress calls, with many patients expressing fears of being forced back to the dark days when HIV was a death sentence due to lack of access to treatment.

The crisis has also put healthcare workers in a difficult position. Doctors and nurses at public health facilities are overwhelmed, having to turn away desperate patients due to the shortage. Some are resorting to prescribing alternative ARV regimens, but these substitutes are not always suitable for all patients. Reports have emerged of healthcare providers facing emotional breakdowns as they witness the suffering of their patients, unable to offer a long-term solution.

Activists and civil society organizations have been vocal in demanding urgent intervention from the government and international donors. Protests have erupted in various parts of the country, with demonstrators calling on authorities to prioritize the release and distribution of the stranded medication. The Kenya Network of Positive Teachers (KENEPOTE) and other advocacy groups have petitioned the Ministry of Health to provide clear communication on when the crisis will be resolved, arguing that lives are on the line with each passing day.

In response, the Kenyan government has acknowledged the crisis but has cited logistical challenges in resolving it. Officials claim they are in discussions with donors to expedite the release of funds and medication, but little tangible action has been seen on the ground. Meanwhile, healthcare experts warn that if the situation is not addressed soon, Kenya could see a resurgence of HIV-related complications and deaths, undoing years of progress made in fighting the epidemic.

As the days go by, the reality for many HIV-positive Kenyans remains bleak. Without immediate intervention, the country risks facing not just a health emergency, but a humanitarian crisis. The fate of thousands now hangs in the balance, with their survival dependent on whether the government and global partners can step up and prevent what could be a catastrophic setback in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Recent reports indicate a significant rise in mental health disorders among Kenyans youth. Conditions such as depression, anxiety and substance abuse are becoming increasingly prevalent, with some individual as young as 12 seeking professional help. Dr. Esther Wanjiru, a clinical psychologist in Nairobi,  emphasizes, “The situation is dire, and its only getting worse. We are seeing an alarming rise in the 

number of young people seeking help for mental health related problems.”

Several factors contribute to this crisis:

1)Stigma: mental health remains a taboo topic in many Kenyan communities. There is a belief that these 

issues are a sign of weakness or lack of willpower, rather than legitimate medical conditions. This stigma 

discourages young people from seeking the help they need.

2)Limited resources: despite the growing need, mental health services are underfounded. A mere 1% of the national health budget is allocated to mental health, leading to a shortage of trained professionals 

and inadequate facilities.

The consequences of this neglect are profound. Suicide rates among Kenyan youth have increased by 20% over the past five years. Additionally, there’s surge in cases of depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders. These conditions not only affect the individuals but also have ripple affects on families and communities.

Addressing this silent epidemic requires a multifaceted approaches namely. This includes destigmatization. Community leaders, educators and media outlets must work together to change perceptions about mental health. Open dialogues can help normalize seeking help.