Kikuyu Men in Kenya Navigate Ridicule Over Adoption of Female Surnames

A growing number of Kikuyu men are taking their mothers' surnames, sparking debate and ridicule in a traditionally patriarchal society.

• Politician John Njuguna Wanjiku and musician Peter Kigia (Kĩgia wa Esther) have publicly adopted their mothers' surnames.
• Motivational speaker Robert Burale stated that female surnames undermine men's masculinity, prompting public backlash.
• Journalist Simon Macharia Wangui said he chose his mother's name because his father was absent and he had no surname until his final year of high school.
• Cultural official Mũgwe wa Njũhĩ argued that Kikuyu trace their lineage from the 10 daughters of the founding couple, so female surnames are culturally consistent.