Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s wife, Pastor Dorcas Rigathi, has sparked debate after suggesting that the increasing number of women taking up top leadership positions — including CEO roles traditionally dominated by men — is contributing to a growing perception that women no longer need men in their lives.
Speaking during a public empowerment forum, Dorcas Rigathi acknowledged the progress women have made in education, business, and corporate leadership, noting that the shift is a positive sign of growth and equality. However, she cautioned that this rise has also generated a new social attitude where some women begin to view men as optional rather than essential partners in building families and society.
According to her, the narrative that a successful woman can “do without a man” is slowly taking root, creating tension within families and altering the traditional structure that once defined many communities. She argued that empowerment should uplift both genders, not create rivalry or make men feel irrelevant.
Dorcas emphasized the need for balance, stating that while women should pursue excellence and leadership, society must also encourage mutual respect, cooperation, and harmony between men and women. She warned that pushing messages that elevate one gender at the expense of the other could weaken family units and fuel unnecessary conflict.
Her remarks have drawn mixed reactions. Supporters say she is addressing real social challenges caused by shifting gender roles, while critics argue that women’s success should not be blamed for relationship issues or insecurity among men.
The conversation highlights Kenya’s ongoing debate about gender, power, and changing family dynamics as more women break barriers and rise to positions once reserved for men.
