Rish Kamunge’s recent TikTok video showcasing the birthday gift she gave her Form Three brother, a Toyota Passo, has sparked varied reactions. The Kenyan woman, currently residing and working abroad, proudly displayed the car, expressing her joy as a proud older sister and self-proclaimed “proud mum.”
Captioning the video with, “My small bro is in Form Three, I had to get him a car for his birthday yesterday, a proud mum. A proud firstborn. I left home to change home,” Kamunge paraded the significant achievement alongside her brother and mother, both seemingly delighted by the thoughtful gesture.
Interestingly, Kamunge chose not to conceal the car’s number plate, explaining that she opted against blurring it to allow anyone doubting the authenticity of her seemingly enjoyable action to verify ownership. This decision, however, triggered skepticism among some netizens who questioned why a young man in Form Three needed a brand-new car.
“I know I will be bashed, but gari ni ya nini for a Form Three?” one user commented, expressing confusion over the necessity of such a gift for someone at that age. Another user lamented the increasing pressure on firstborns, implying that such extravagant gifts set unrealistic expectations.
Despite attempts to alleviate concerns by stating that people give according to their means and emphasizing the sufficiency of grace, Kamunge faced further criticism. Some netizens accused her of contributing to external pressure, with comments like, “Mnatupatia pressure huku nje, sasa wameanza kuniuliza hata baiskeli ya black mamba sijawai leta.”
However, amidst the controversy, Kamunge also became an inspiration to many who viewed the gesture positively. Commending her hard work and ability to afford a luxurious lifestyle, supporters congratulated her for being a generous and financially capable sister. Positive comments flooded in, such as, “Inatosha…we shall clap for others until it’s our turn,” “You are a super girl,” “He is lucky,” and “Ipo siku,” expressing optimism that others will also experience such generosity in the future.
