Social media influencer and nightclub hostess Amber Ray has hit back at critics questioning her use of the nickname “Tajiri” for her fiancé, city businessman Kennedy Rapudo. The term “Tajiri,” a Swahili word meaning “wealthy” or “rich,” has been a signature reference Amber has used to describe Rapudo, branding herself as “Bibi ya Tajiri.”
However, the nickname has not sat well with a section of netizens who have expressed skepticism about Rapudo’s actual wealth, with some openly criticizing Amber for what they perceive as an exaggeration. The mother of two recently took to Instagram to address the backlash, dismissing the negativity and standing by her decision to call her partner by the moniker.
“I don’t understand why some people are so mad when I call myself ‘Bibi ya Tajiri,’” Amber said in an Instagram story. “If you feel your husband is also a tajiri, then go ahead and call him that. Let me call mine in peace.”
Amber, known for her outspoken nature and glamorous lifestyle, expressed her frustration over the persistent scrutiny she faces. She revealed that some individuals have even created fake accounts just to send her messages, urging her to drop the nickname.
“People send me DMs, telling me I am not a rich man’s wife, that my man is not wealthy enough to be called ‘Tajiri.’ But do you guys even know his net worth?” she questioned. “It’s funny how people think they can dictate what I call my own man.”
During the social media rant, Kennedy Rapudo was seen sitting beside Amber in their car, listening attentively. He later weighed in on the matter, stating that the world is big enough for multiple wealthy individuals.
“If my woman calls me ‘Tajiri,’ it doesn’t deduct from anyone else’s wealth,” Rapudo said. “People will always talk, so just let them.”
Amber further argued that the criticism was unfounded as she had never imposed rules on how others should refer to their partners. She urged critics to focus on their own lives rather than policing hers.
“People claim that a ‘Bibi ya Tajiri’ doesn’t host nightclubs or dress the way I do. But can everyone just live their own lives?” she added.
The socialite’s defiant response highlights her unwavering confidence in her relationship and her disregard for public opinion. Despite the backlash, Amber remains firm in her branding and continues to embrace the “Bibi ya Tajiri” identity, unfazed by the controversy surrounding it.