Prominent Kenyan businessman and political strategist Jimmy Richard Wanjigi recently opened up about the qualities to seek in a wife, drawing from wisdom imparted by his grandfather.

Known for his influence in Kenya’s business and political spheres, Wanjigi has been married to Irene Nzisa for 28 years, and together they have two children. Despite his public profile, Wanjigi and his family maintain a relatively private life.

On the podcast Three Truths No Lies, Wanjigi shared personal reflections on selecting a life partner, recounting advice from his grandfather, who held him dear.

During a candid conversation, his grandfather, eager for him to settle down before his passing, asked why finding a wife was so challenging. Wanjigi offered typical excuses, saying, “It’s not like it used to be…”

His grandfather, undeterred, shared three key qualities to look for in a wife. “First, marry a beautiful girl,” he advised. Wanjigi echoed this, noting that a beautiful wife could lead to attractive children, potentially opening more opportunities for them in life.

“Second, marry a clever girl,” his grandfather continued. Wanjigi explained that an intelligent partner increases the likelihood of raising smart children, better equipped to handle life’s challenges.

He added that children who struggle intellectually face greater difficulties absorbing and navigating life’s complexities.

“Third, don’t marry someone from a family with generational conditions like mental illness or terminal diseases,” his grandfather cautioned. Wanjigi elaborated that such conditions are often hereditary, and he wanted to protect his future children from inheriting them.

Wanjigi clearly took this advice to heart, marrying Irene Nzisa, whom he describes as beautiful, intelligent, and the love of his life.

“I can’t imagine living without her,” he said, admitting he’d “selfishly” prefer to pass before her to avoid a life without her presence. Their 28-year marriage reflects the wisdom of his grandfather’s counsel.

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Wanjigi emphasised that the heart of marriage lies in prioritising children’s well-being. “You don’t destroy your children just because you were destroyed,” he said, highlighting the need to shield children from marital discord.

He and Irene made a conscious choice never to argue in front of their children, viewing disagreements as private matters. “Children can’t process marriage conflicts, let alone arguments,” he explained.

He concluded by referencing a practice among couples who separate: “That’s why many parents wait until their children are 18 to part ways—they’re better able to cope with separation or divorce at that age.”