26/07/2026
A few days ago, just before the UNZA tunnel entrance was a young boy, probably between 12 and 15 years old, seated on the ground crying. As two young men walked past him, one shouted, "Mwamuna sama lila!"meaning, "A man does not cry."
I kept walking, but those words echoed in my mind.
Was that encouragement? Or was it discouragement?
From the time boys are young, many are taught to hide their emotions. They hear phrases like, "Be strong," "Man up," or "Boys don't cry." Over time, they begin to believe that showing pain is a sign of weakness.
What if that young boy had just lost someone? What if he was overwhelmed by problems at home, school, or within himself? We may never know. But one thing is certain we all carry battles that others cannot see.
Strength is not pretending everything is okay.
So I ask again:
"Mwamuna sama lila." Is it encouragement... or discouragement?
how does one really take it?
I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Mental Health Starts With Me - Students Lead Initiative
Mental Health Movement
