The bride price tradition in Kenya has always been seen as an important part of marriage, but times are changing. What was once considered a proud symbol of respect to the bride’s family is now being questioned by many people, especially younger Kenyans.
According to a recent study done by Mwelekeo Insights and released on July 24, 2025, the practice may be losing support, and many Kenyans feel it needs to be reformed.
The study shows that 53% of Kenyan men still support the tradition, while 47% think it is no longer necessary. This narrow gap tells us that opinions on this issue are strongly divided.
One of the key findings from the study is that 65% of men believe that the bride price should be shared between both families. Many of them feel that since both men and women now work and earn money, the financial burden of marriage should not fall only on the man.
This push for cost-sharing is also linked to the growing calls for gender equality across the country. In fact, the study shows that more educated men tend to criticize the practice more than others. They see it as something that no longer fits in today’s world, where relationships are supposed to be partnerships.
Age and location also seem to play a role in how people view the bride price. Older men and those from rural areas mostly support the tradition, while younger men and those living in cities are more likely to reject it.
This shows a clear generational and social shift. Young people, especially in towns and cities, are exposed to modern ideas and often question traditional norms. They want marriage to be based on love and mutual agreement, not on money or the ability to pay.
Another interesting part of the study is that 83% of men support the idea of paying the bride price gradually instead of one big payment.
This approach could help ease the financial pressure many men face, especially when they are still building their careers or dealing with the high cost of living.
Some men even suggest making the bride price symbolic instead of expensive, or letting the couple decide how to handle it. This would allow the tradition to continue in a way that feels fair and realistic.
The future of the bride price seems uncertain. With the country changing fast more urbanization, more people going to school, and more open talks about women’s rights the tradition is facing new tests.
But it’s not about throwing it away completely. Many people still see value in it, especially when it is done with respect and understanding. What the Mwelekeo Insights study shows is that there’s room for compromise.
There is a growing number of people who want to keep the spirit of the tradition but make it lighter, more flexible, and fair for both sides.
The discussion around bride price is part of a bigger conversation happening in many parts of Africa, where old customs are being re-examined in today’s world.
The findings from the Mwelekeo Insights survey make it clear that change is already happening, and the country must be ready to have honest talks about what marriage should really look like going forward.
