Some Africans have long seen a big belly as a sign of wealth. It’s killing them

By Evelyne Musambi

In many African cultures, a big belly has long been seen as a sign of wealth. But this perception is proving deadly as deaths due to obesity -related illnesses rise.

In Kenya, overweight politicians are often called Boss or Mkubwa — Swahili for “big man” — by constituents, with their girth symbolizing prosperity.

Younger politicians, including the governors of Nairobi and Mombasa, have begun speaking publicly about weight loss. Obesity contributes to non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, which have become Kenya’s leading cause of death. The health ministry says they are responsible for 39% of fatalities annually.

In a country where the government has said almost a third of the population is still unable to fulfill food needs, 13% adults are obese, according to the 2025 World Obesity Atlas. The contrast highlights the country’s growing inequality and the popularity of fast and processed foods by those with rising incomes.

Perceptions