We can never over talk or overemphasize this topic of men being seen in the kitchen as an abomination in Africa, especially in my dear country, Nigeria. This orientation started in some people's lives right from home, where ladies are stationed to handle kitchen duties while the guys are assigned masculine duties, as we have it. Even in some homes where such practices are not enforced, you will see a guy grow up with good kitchen skills but later abandon the idea of using the kitchen in his own house simply because his wife is there, and "a man is not supposed to be doing kitchen duties."
You cannot blame anyone for why it is like this, it is simply how the world has evolved. It is the influence of society. Even a man who actively helps his wife in the kitchen may find himself unable to admit it in the midst of his friends because of the fear of being mocked. You cannot take anything away from this reality; it is simply the truth in this part of the world.
Critically assessing the situation, it is not a big deal for men to help out in the kitchen. I am not married yet, but I cook my own meals. In fact, I derive joy from making good meals because I always end up praising my cooking skills countless times. At this stage in my life, I already have the mindset of being a helper to my wife in the kitchen when the time comes, especially in situations that warrant it, such as when she is pregnant, unwell, or in any other circumstance where my assistance is needed. I am ready to do this, and I sincerely hope that I do not get influenced by society’s negative perception of men in the kitchen when the time comes.
For any lady, marrying a man who knows how to cook is not just a bonus but a huge profit. She will feel secure, more loved, and pampered. Pampering and showering love on a woman is not just about the financial aspect, things like this go a long way in strengthening the bond in a home. Oh my goodness, I cannot wait to get married, to excuse my wife from the kitchen just so I can handle the cooking and feed her when it is done. It is going to be romantic because it will turn her on. Lol.
We can make this world a better and more loving place if we remove all these restrictions and entitlements regarding what men should or should not do, just as the world has gradually removed gender restrictions in the workforce, especially in political settings. There should be no stigma or ridicule directed at men who help their wives in the kitchen. Let everyone see it as normal, and let life be normal.
Thanks!
I wrote this in response to Hive Ghana contest
