Digital creator Lillian Ng’ang’a has defended gospel musician Mercy Masika’s upcoming Becoming a Wife masterclass amid criticism over its focus on teaching women how to become better wives.
The programme has sparked debate online, with some questioning why women are being encouraged to improve their roles in marriage while similar initiatives for men are less visible.
Lillian argued that people should be open to learning from others whose marriages have worked, saying love and companionship remain important despite the challenges many couples face.
“Those triggered are the ones who want marriage deep down, but pretend they don’t,” she said.
She also questioned why Masika was being criticised for sharing lessons from her marriage, adding that she would gladly attend the masterclass.
Masika had earlier announced the seven-session program, Becoming a Wife, running from November 21 to December 12, 2026, announcing involvement of Lady Bishop Kathy Kiuna, whom she described as an important mentor in her marriage journey.
“I’ve been blessed with amazing mentors in my marriage journey, and Lady Bishop has been such a powerful example of an empowered woman who honors God and her husband,” Masika wrote.
However, media personality Janet Mbugua questioned the focus of the programme, arguing that marriage education should also address men’s responsibilities and wider concerns about women’s safety, femicide and sexual violence.
“Where is the masterclass for how to be a good husband? Why is the burden always on the woman?” she posed.
Mbugua maintained that one partner cannot save a relationship alone, emphasising that marriage requires commitment from both people.
YouTuber Rachel Gitau, popularly known as Pika na Raych, also questioned why marriage preparation programmes often focus on women, saying both partners should have opportunities to learn and grow.
“I am a married woman, I believe marriage takes two, and we all have room to grow,” she wrote in a comment on Masika’s post.
Meanwhile, media personality Mashirima Kapombe defended the singer, accusing critics of attacking her over an initiative that may not be intended for everyone.
“You are not the target audience and that’s okay. Scroll past. Not everything is for everyone,” Kapombe said.
Journalist Lynn Ngugi also came to Masika’s defence, arguing that the singer should be allowed to share her knowledge with women who are interested in learning from her experience.
Ngugi acknowledged concerns about the lack of similar programmes for men but challenged critics to create their own platforms to address those needs rather than expect Masika to tackle every issue.
“Let her teach those women. Because these women are independent people who feel like there’s a need for this masterclass,” she said.
Following public interest in the debate, content creator Peter Kabi, popularly known as Kabi WaJesus, announced plans to launch a “Becoming Husbands Masterclass” to help men become better husbands.
In an Instagram post, Kabi said men also need to be intentional about improving their roles in marriage, adding that successful marriages require both partners to learn, grow and put in the effort.
However, his announcement drew mixed reactions online, with some commenters questioning whether people had actually called for such a masterclass.
The debate has since widened into a discussion about marriage, faith and gender roles.
While critics argue that both husbands and wives should receive equal attention on their responsibilities, supporters say women should be free to seek marriage guidance without being ridiculed.
