Kenyan gospel singer and reverend Mercy Masika has sparked debate online after announcing a women-only marriage masterclass dubbed Becoming a Wife, with critics questioning why women are being taught how to become wives while similar attention is not being given to men preparing for marriage.
The seven-session programme, scheduled to run from November 21 to December 12, 2026, is designed to guide women on building marriages based on Christian values.
In promoting the masterclass on social media, Masika said it was intended for women who wanted to build lasting marriages guided by their faith.
“This is for every woman who believes marriage shouldn’t be miserable, who wants to get it right and trusts that God’s way is best,” she wrote.
However, the announcement attracted criticism from Kenyans who argued that the responsibility for making marriages work should not fall on women alone.
Some questioned why there was no similar programme focused on helping men become better husbands, with others arguing that marriage requires commitment, growth and accountability from both partners.
“Becoming a wife manade? Are the husbands training to be husbands?” one social media user asked.
Another questioned why women were being encouraged to attend marriage classes when men also needed guidance on their responsibilities in relationships.
The backlash also extended to the broader expectations placed on women, with some social media users arguing that more attention should be given to financial independence, career development and personal wellbeing.
Others, however, viewed the masterclass as an opportunity for women to learn about marriage and prepare for the responsibilities that come with it.
Masika has previously spoken about the importance of gaining wisdom and understanding in marriage. She has been married to David Muguro since 2008, and the couple have shared aspects of their relationship publicly.
The debate surrounding the masterclass has renewed conversations about traditional gender roles, religious teachings on marriage and whether preparation for married life should involve both partners equally.
