Socialite Kate Thuku has sparked widespread debate online after revealing the dowry amount she would like her future husband to pay. During a conversation on Instagram, an individual asked followers how much they were willing to either pay or receive as a bride price. In response, Kate made a bold statement, indicating she would expect between KSh 34 million and KSh 40 million for her dowry.
Her response quickly went viral, attracting a variety of reactions from social media users. Many were shocked by the substantial figure, with some men expressing disbelief that such an amount would be asked for a bride price. Some suggested they would rather spend the same money on a luxury car instead of paying for a dowry.
This is not the first time an influencer has openly discussed their dowry expectations. Previously, another well-known internet personality, Pritty Vishy, made headlines when she stated that she would be satisfied with a dowry of KSh 5 million. However, Kate Thuku’s demand has clearly generated more controversy due to the high amount she has mentioned.
The reactions from social media users have been varied. Several men took to commenting, saying that the dowry amount was overly inflated and suggested they would rather use the money to buy expensive cars like a Mercedes-Benz GLE C63 or a Dodge Challenger. Others pointed out that Kate’s request seemed more like an investment rather than a traditional dowry, with some jokingly asking if the money would go toward buying properties or apartments instead.
One commenter humorously asked, “Is this dowry for a woman or an investment?” while another claimed that such a price would be more suitable for high-end assets like vehicles or real estate. A few other responses included people saying that for the same amount, they could buy a simple car or even multiple cars, indicating that the dowry demand seemed disproportionate to what many expected for a bride price.
On the other hand, there were those who found the entire conversation amusing, with one comment suggesting that friends who believe such dowry demands are reasonable should be avoided. Some pointed out that dowries in Kenya tend to vary greatly depending on a range of factors, including family status, social standing, and personal preferences. However, others questioned whether such extravagant dowry requests might push men to view marriage more as a financial transaction than a union of love and partnership.
Some of the reactions showed a deep divide between the traditional and modern views on dowries, with those holding conservative views arguing that a dowry is a symbolic gesture of respect and a way to honor the family of the bride. Meanwhile, others saw it as an outdated practice, with no place in the contemporary world where relationships are seen as partnerships rather than financial exchanges.
Despite the mixed reactions, it’s clear that Kate’s statement has brought attention to the ongoing conversation about dowry practices in modern-day Kenya. Many people are still debating whether dowry amounts are fair or whether they should be abolished altogether. As more influencers and public figures share their thoughts on such issues, it is likely that the debate will continue to evolve.
Kate’s dowry request may have been bold, but it also serves as a reflection of the changing dynamics in how dowries are viewed in contemporary society. While some see it as an important tradition, others question whether it has become a commercialized aspect of marriage. Whatever the outcome, one thing is clear—Kate Thuku’s comment has undoubtedly ignited a conversation that goes beyond just her personal request and taps into broader societal discussions about values, money, and tradition in Kenya today.
