Male Involvement in Family Planning: Richard’s Journey

Deep in the rural village of Laluk, nestled among the lush scenery of Mulot, we meet Richard Lelei—a humble husband and father of five who is quietly transforming his community’s perspective on family planning. Thanks to the efforts of the local Public Health Officer, Peris Kirinyet, we had the opportunity to hear Richard’s story and learn how his personal experience is challenging long-held social norms.

Richard was born into a polygamous family, with his father blessed with four wives. Growing up, Richard recalls, life was tough. “Tulikuwa wengi ata hatukujuana vizuri,” he reflects, describing the confusion and scarcity that marked his childhood. Determined to break free from the hardships of his upbringing—where basic needs were hard to come by and many children never even set foot in school—Richard vowed to create a better future. In a bold move, he refused the bride his father had chosen for him and eventually married a woman from another village. Their shared interest in family planning, sparked by information from the then-only radio station, KBC, led them both to volunteer as Community Health Workers (now known as CHVs).

In 2021, DESIP, a family planning program funded by UKAID, recognized Richard’s potential and selected him for specialized training to become a male champion. In Maasai and Kalenjin communities, where men traditionally steer cultural and familial decisions, his role is crucial. Historically, family planning has been seen as a “woman’s business,” often shrouded in taboo and misperception. However, Richard’s training empowered him with comprehensive knowledge and the confidence to address these misconceptions head-on.

Armed with real-life experience and a passion for change, Richard now uses every opportunity—whether at barazas, funerals, weddings, church gatherings, or informal meetings—to talk about the benefits of family planning. He demonstrates how planning a family can lead to better economic stability and healthier lives for everyone. His personal success is evident: all his children are well-educated, and his youngest is even attending a local university.

Richard’s message is simple yet powerful. “Mwanaume ni kupanga familia”—a real man practices family planning. His influence is palpable, as even those who once saw family planning as taboo are slowly beginning to embrace it. Public Health Officer Peris Kirinyet proudly notes that Richard’s work speaks for itself, transforming the community one conversation at a time.