Nairobi County Executive Committee (CEC) member for Citizen Engagement and Customer Service Geoffrey Mosiria has sparked debate online after issuing a cautionary message to young people over the growing tattoo culture.
In a strongly worded statement shared on X, Mosiria urged young women and men to “pause before getting a tattoo,” arguing that not all trends promoted by celebrities, influencers, and social media lifestyles are beneficial in the long run.
He warned that decisions made in youth can carry lasting consequences later in life.
Mosiria claimed that from his observations and real-life encounters, many young people regret getting tattoos, especially those done without understanding their meaning or long-term impact.
He linked tattoos to what he described as emotional, psychological, and even spiritual struggles, noting that some individuals later feel “trapped, disturbed, or disconnected.”
The Nairobi county official further pointed out that a growing number of young people are now seeking tattoo removal, spending large sums of money and enduring painful procedures.
However, he cautioned that some tattoos are permanent, forcing people to cover up their bodies out of regret rather than fashion.
In his message, Mosiria listed common tattoo choices he said often lead to regret, including names of former partners, symbols whose meanings were unclear, and images associated with drugs such as marijuana.
According to him, what appears exciting at 20 can become a burden by the age of 30, particularly when life demands responsibility in marriage, employment, and public image.
His remarks also touched on relationships, advising young men to exercise caution when committing blindly, especially where tattoos with unclear meanings are involved.
Mosiria stressed that his comments were not meant to discourage marriage or promote discrimination but to encourage wisdom and careful decision-making.
“This message is not hate. It is concern, based on observation and responsibility,” he said, adding that trends fade while regret can last a lifetime.
The statement has drawn mixed reactions online, with some Kenyans praising Mosiria for addressing an uncomfortable issue, while others accused him of stereotyping and overgeneralising tattooed individuals.
As the debate continues, Mosiria maintains that his message is about reflection, urging young people to choose purpose over popularity and protect their future.
Reactions:
Brian Kipchumba: I am a tatoo artist and that is my hustle. You can not just misadvise my potential clients, this is my livelihood. If someone today insisted that citizen engagement is bulshit you would be jobless, so respect our hustle. Know that tattoos are the least of concern just like hairstyles, dress code, use of perfume, drinking tea/coffee/alcohol, being a massuer, etc. Thats backward thinking just like criminalising alcohol and tolerating slander while calling yourself a Christian.
Nyagah Mucangi: A pack of advice worthy heeding to if you possess a good dose of SELF-RESPECT. Avoid indulging in things or activities that are likely to impact your life negatively for ever. Geoffrey Mosiria KE, thank you for the wonderful advice. God bless you.
Collins Eric: Thanks for advising the kids, those with ears will listen and think about it, regret is hard to bear.
Christine Rylatt: Now advice the girl child about boys with tattoos.
Kate McCaden: For some of us it’s love, gratitude and receipts of everything we’ve been through and came out alive! Leave judgement to God.