ABSTRACT
Away from popular views in Kenya, which often juxtapose gender and sexuality practices between cisgender gay male sex workers and straight male hustlers, this chapter explores the similarities between the ways in which these men try to adhere to particular masculine ideals to claim belonging. The ideal of the male provider continues to circumscribe gender positions and roles among both male sex workers and male hustlers, many of whom grew up in female-headed households. A strong connection exists between the responsibility and ability to give money, social status, masculinity, and the right to have sex with a lover or spouse. The monetary practice of toanisha is widespread in Kenya, especially among people living through economic uncertainty, and it draws on at least two dominant discourses about money, gender, and social responsibilities: Godfatherism and harambee. The reserves were already overpopulated as it was and high unemployment rates also plagued the “African” settlements in urban areas such as Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu.
