Wanjira Longauer explains clear difference in how people follow rules in Kenya and US
By Paulette Mboga, April 28, 2026Radio host Wanjira Longauer has shared her experience living between Kenya and the United States, pointing out what she sees as a clear difference in how people follow rules.
On Monday, April 27, 2026, she explained that her decision to stay in Kenya during the COVID period was influenced by this observation. She said the situation at the time forced her to choose where she would rather be.
“If there is one thing I know about the United States, they like following rules over there. If there is one thing I know about Kenya, they like breaking them,” she said.
Longauer explained that her trip to Kenya was not meant to be long-term at first. She said she had only planned a short visit after missing home and the general atmosphere. She added that things quickly changed once she arrived.
“I came back for what was supposed to be a visit. I was missing Kenya, the continent in general, just like the vibes and bla bla bla,” she said.
She said that after arriving in December 2019, opportunities started coming in quickly. She explained that she began getting multiple gigs, which made her more appealing. She added that the extra income also played a part in her decision.
“I came in December 2019, and I am getting gigs, left, right and centre. And I am like, ” This is great extra money,” she said.
Experience during the COVID period
Longauer went on to explain how her plans shifted further when her mother decided to travel. She said her mother left New York to come visit her in Kenya during that period. She added that this happened just as news of a new disease started spreading.
“My mom gets FOMO and decided to leave New York to come and visit me here, and yeah, like this weird disease is going around…COVID,” she said.
She explained that as the situation developed, she had to make a choice about where to stay. She said she was aware of the strict measures that were being put in place in the United States. She added that this influenced her final decision.
“I was not going to go to Los Angeles, where I knew there was going to be a serious lockdown and isolation. So yeah..,” she said.
Longauer said her experience highlighted the difference in how rules are handled in different places. She explained that this contrast shaped how she responded during that time.