Tony Kwalanda reveals cultural expectations ended relationship with Joyce Maina

Content creatror Joyce Maina and media personality Tony Kwalanda. [File, Standard]

Media personality Tony Kwalanda has opened up about his past relationship with content creator Joyce Maina, explaining why it didn't last.

In an interview with Radio47Ke, Kwalanda shared insights into their connection, stating that despite his deep affection for Maina, certain differences led him to reassess their compatibility.

Kwalanda recounted the initial stages of their relationship with fondness, noting they had even begun house-hunting together, with both their families aware of the union.

"I loved Joyce Maina very much...we met in a very funny way, but there came a time when my heart told me to love her, so I opened my heart, and we dated," he recalled.

However, cultural differences soon became apparent, particularly regarding naming their future children—a topic that arose during a conversation in a parking basement.

Maina expressed her desires for her children's names, which clashed with Kwalanda's cultural expectations.

"In our customs from Malaba, men name the children... Joyce said she's the carrier, implying she would have the final say in naming, regardless of my input," Kwalanda explained.

Another point of contention for Kwalanda was Maina's expectation that he would take on traditional roles during her pregnancy, such as cooking for her.

"Hearing her say that if she were pregnant and came home, she'd want me to cook for her... that's a red flag for us men from Western [Kenya]. We don't like being reminded [of such expectations]," he added.

These cultural and expectation differences led Kwalanda to conclude that their relationship might face more serious challenges down the line, prompting him to end things.