Kenya, July 24 -- A Mwelekeo Insights national poll has revealed that Kenya's bride price reform is gaining significant support, with 47% of men advocating for changes or outright abolition due to economic pressures.
The survey, conducted between March and June 2025 with 16,800 respondents across Kenya's 47 counties, exposed a stark generational divide: over 70% of men under 30 view the bride price tradition as financially burdensome and outdated, while older men defend it as a cultural duty.
With 54% of participants citing economic factors like Kenya's 7.5% GDP budget deficit and rising living costs as key influences, the findings highlight evolving attitudes toward this long-standing custom.
The bride price, known as "ruracio" among the Kikuyu, "ayie" in the Luo community, and "ngasya" for the Kamba, traditionally involves the groom's family paying livestock, cash, or goods to the bride's family to formalise marriage.
Historically, it symbolised respect and family unity, but modern economic realities have shifted perceptions. The Mwelekeo Insights poll found that 65% of respondents believe the practice commodifies women, with 58% of men reporting emotional and financial strain from societal expectations.
Younger men, particularly in urban areas like Nairobi, argue that bride prices, which can range from Ksh 10,000 to Ksh 100,000 for educated women, deter marriage amid high unemployment (35% for youth) and inflation.
Older generations, however, see bride price as a cornerstone of Kenyan cultural identity. Among respondents over 50, 68% support its continuation, viewing it as a gesture of appreciation and a way to strengthen familial ties, as noted in posts on social media.
For instance, the Luo community often demands cattle, while the Kikuyu include goats and traditional brews in negotiations.
The poll revealed that 52% of participants oppose abolishing the practice, citing its role in legitimizing marriages and ensuring lineage, particularly in rural areas like Tana River, where a 2021 case saw a father accept just Ksh 7 as bride price, sparking national debate.
Economic pressures are reshaping attitudes, especially in urban centers. The survey showed that 51% of Nairobi women under 30 are open to polygamous marriages if financially beneficial, reflecting pragmatic views amid economic hardship.
Additionally, 67% of career women in Nairobi prioritize financial independence over marriage, further challenging traditional norms.
Critics, including 48% of poll respondents, argue that bride price perpetuates gender inequality by framing women as commodities, who stated, "Reform isn't betrayal; it saves relationships."
Conversely, defenders argue it fosters respect, though high costs sometimes exceeding $5,000 burden young men.
The poll also highlighted legal tensions. While Kenya's Constitution outlaws obligatory bride price, the practice persists, with communities like the Maasai and Kalenjin emphasising livestock payments.
The LSK and gender equality advocates, like Crystal Asige, push for reforms, citing cases where high bride prices trap women in abusive marriages due to families' inability to refund payments upon divorce.
A 2017 UN study linked bride prices over Ksh 100,000 to lower marital happiness, supporting calls for change. Yet, some communities, like the Luhya, maintain that bride price ensures commitment, with traditionalists like Patrick Wangamati arguing it prevents marital breakdowns.
Social media reflects the divide, with #MwelekeoPollRelease trending as users debate reform.
One noted, "58% feel emotional pressure from bride price expectations," while others highlighted government proposals to ban mandatory payments.
The poll's findings align with Kenya's broader social shifts, as Gen Z's activism, praised by 51% of older Kenyans, challenges traditional norms.
With 56% of women under 30 viewing marriage as non-essential, the bride price's relevance is under scrutiny.
Online trends show rising searches for "Kenya bride price reform 2025" and "Mwelekeo Insights poll marriage," indicating global and diaspora interest.
As Kenya navigates modernisation, the debate over bride price reflects a delicate balance between tradition and economic realities, shaping the future of marriage customs.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.