Renowned gospel singer Anastacia Kakii, best known for her hit song “Kiatu Kivue,” has cautioned women against changing their names to include their husbands’ names, citing personal regrets and challenges in branding.
In an exclusive interview with Nairobi News, Anastacia, who previously used her ex-husband’s name Mukabwa, expressed regret over building her brand under his name.
She emphasised the importance of women maintaining their individual identities and encouraged them not to replace their names with their husbands’ names.
“What I would advise people is most women make this mistake without knowing. People might not understand it right now, but when it hits home, that is when you will understand.
Also read: Anastacia Mukabwa transforms into Anastacia Kakii: Why the name change!
You have your name; use that. Even if you get married, you will be Mrs so and so, that is okay. Stop replacing your name with your husband’s. Brand your name or use your parent’s name,” advised Anastacia.
The gospel artist shared the challenges she faced when attempting to rebrand herself as Anastacia Kakii, as many Kenyans were unfamiliar with the name.
She highlighted the impact on her ministry, and in response, she decided to use her popular song, “Kiatu Kivue,” as her brand name.
“In my ministry, it has greatly affected me. Even right now, some people don’t know which name I use. I can’t use Mukabwa because he is my ex, and that is the name I built my brand under.
Even now, rebranding is too hectic. I am currently calling myself ‘Anastacia Kiatu Kivue’ so people can understand me. They can relate to that song, but it has taken time for me to come up with a brand name,” she explained.
Also read: Joyce Omondi to Nairobi women: ‘Don’t be afraid of marriage!’
Anastacia also expressed gratitude for the support from Kenyans but urged them to further embrace and support local artists.
She highlighted challenges where she is often mistaken for a Tanzanian artist, emphasizing the need for Kenyans to support their own musicians.
“Sometimes, if I go to various places, I am well received because some people think I am a Tanzanian yet I am Kenyan. There are those seasons but Kenyans should support their own and embrace their musicians.”
She walked down the aisle with her now husband Maurice William Juma in December, 20232.
Nairobi News is now available on Telegram. For handpicked stories every day, subscribe to our channel today.