The Pig by
Barbara Kimenye
"The Pig" is a short story written by Barbara Kimenye. The story revolves around a man named Nzo who decides to start a pig farm in order to make money and improve his family's financial situation.
Nzo's wife, Nyabera, initially opposes the idea, but Nzo is determined to make it work. He purchases a pregnant pig named Malaika and begins his venture. Nzo learns about pig farming from a manual and takes care of Malaika as best he can.
Malaika gives birth to several piglets, and Nzo is thrilled. However, he soon realizes that he needs to invest more money to keep the pigs healthy and to expand his farm. Nzo borrows money from a local moneylender and buys more pigs.
As time goes on, Nzo becomes consumed by his pig farm. He spends less time with his family and neglects his responsibilities. Nyabera grows resentful and feels neglected, but Nzo dismisses her concerns, believing that the pig farm will bring them prosperity.
However, Nzo's optimism soon turns into despair. His pigs fall sick, and despite his efforts, many of them die. Nzo is unable to repay the moneylender and falls into debt. The once-promising pig farm becomes a source of stress and disappointment.
Desperate, Nzo turns to Nyabera for help. Together, they come up with a plan to sell the remaining pigs and pay off their debts. Nzo learns an important lesson about balancing his ambitions with his family responsibilities.
In the end, Nzo sells the pigs and realizes the error of his ways. He acknowledges that he should have listened to Nyabera from the beginning and regrets neglecting his family for the sake of his pig farm.
"The Pig" explores themes of ambition, responsibility, and the consequences of neglecting one's loved ones. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of becoming consumed by one's dreams and losing sight of what truly matters.