A Catholic priest, Father Peter Tembo, has urged men to stop borrowing money in an effort to impress women, warning that the habit is pushing many into financial distress, depression, and in some cases, even death.
Delivering a sermon at Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Father Tembo said unregulated borrowing often driven by the desire to maintain a certain lifestyle has become a silent crisis affecting men across the country.
“Stop borrowing just to please women. Some men are falling into serious financial problems, sinking into depression, and sadly, some are even dying due to the stress brought on by debt they cannot repay,” he said
Father Tembo encouraged men to live within their means and focus on building sustainable, honest lives rather than chasing temporary approval based on material possessions.
“There is no pride in pretending to be what you are not. A man who is financially honest is more valuable than one who lives a lie to impress,” he added.
His comments come amid growing concerns over personal debt among young professionals, many of whom access loans through informal lenders, mobile platforms, and credit facilities — often without adequate financial literacy or planning.
While acknowledging the desire to provide and look after loved ones, the priest stressed that relationships should not be driven by financial showmanship.
Mental health organisations across the region have linked rising debt levels to increased cases of anxiety, depression, and even suicide, especially among men who feel pressured to perform financially beyond their capacity.
Father Tembo also called on faith leaders, families, and communities to open up safe spaces where men can talk about financial pressures without fear of judgment.
“Debt is killing men silently. We must encourage open conversations and help those who are struggling not ridicule them for not having enough,” he said.
He concluded by advising men to seek both spiritual and financial counselling when faced with economic difficulties, rather than suffer in silence or resort to borrowing as a way to keep up appearances.
