Kenya’s digital space is abuzz following controversial remarks by businesswoman Shiquo wa Hiistyles on property ownership in modern marriages.
Her comments have sparked widespread debate, drawing attention to a growing trend where some men reportedly register assets in their mothers’ names instead of their spouses.
The discussion gained momentum amid the widely publicised separation involving comedian Timothy Kimani, popularly known as Njugush, and his longtime partner Celestine Ndinda. While details of their split remain largely private, unverified claims suggesting that Njugush may have listed his mother as next of kin, rather than Celestine, have intensified the conversation online.
“Marry His Mother Instead”
Addressing the issue on social media, Shiquo delivered a blunt take, arguing that men are increasingly moving away from registering property under their wives’ names.
“Men no longer put property under their wives’ names. If you want to marry a man today, you might as well marry his mother,” she said.
According to her, concerns over losing assets during divorce settlements are pushing men to choose what they perceive as more secure beneficiaries. She suggested that, for some, the perceived permanence of the mother-son relationship is beginning to outweigh trust in marriage.
Rise of the “Sharp Boy” mindset
Shiquo’s remarks reflect a broader sentiment gaining traction on platforms like X and TikTok, where some men identify with the so-called “Sharp Boy” mindset. The term is associated with financial caution and strategies aimed at protecting assets from potential divorce disputes.
She noted that ongoing legal battles over matrimonial property have made many men more cautious, with some opting to list their mothers as primary beneficiaries to keep assets within their biological family.
“It is all over social media. These ‘Sharp Boys’ are saying they would rather face you in court with their mother involved than risk losing property,” she added.
Debate fuelled by Njugush rumours
Although neither Njugush nor Celestine has publicly confirmed details about their asset arrangements, the speculation alone has stirred a national conversation.
The couple had long been viewed as a model celebrity partnership, having built a successful brand and business empire together. Their reported separation, combined with the circulating claims, has amplified scrutiny around how couples manage wealth.
Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics indicates that divorce rates, particularly in urban centres like Nairobi, have been on the rise over the past decade. This shift is influencing how both men and women approach property ownership in marriage.
The emerging trend of naming mothers as beneficiaries points to a changing social dynamic. Traditionally, spouses were considered default next of kin, but increasing awareness of high-stakes divorce cases appears to be reshaping those norms.
