This archive report was first published on 5 July 2020.
On a recent show on NTV, Kenyan comedian Elsa Majimbo sparked outrage among Kenyans online after claiming that her bride price is a staggering four million dollars (approximately Sh400 million).
During the show, Elsa, who was born in Kenya and raised in South Africa, stated that she does not expect a broke man to ask her for a hand in marriage. When asked about her expectations from a potential suitor, she said, “What I expect from that, someone who is broke or someone who doesn’t have money not to approach me, so I tell you what to expect. First of all, my dowry is 4 million dollars.”
However, Elsa's sentiments did not sit well with many Kenyans on social media, who accused her of being a 'gold digger'. Some users took to Twitter to express their outrage, with @IamNjoorah tweeting, “Women think they are the only ones who should have standards. A man mentions his standards and he is called toxic and misogynistic. People are not property to be bought. Prizes are won, not bought. Don’t be afraid to reject and call out this type.”
Others, like @KarimWaiyaki, questioned the feasibility of Elsa's dowry demand, pointing out that it would take 83 years to clear if one spent 400,000 KES per month. @NasaRevolution also weighed in, stating, “Why do some women overrate themselves. First & foremost, ruracio, pre wedding, wedding, dowry payment are all economic scams on men which must be resisted. It's the man who foots such bills yet expected to provide for a family after marriage.”
As the debate rages on, it remains to be seen how Elsa's comments will be received by the public and the feminist community.
