From supportive to sneaky: Ten sisters-in-law who'll test your marriage and patience

Ten sisters-in-law who’ll test your marriage and patience (Photo: iStock)

Sisters-in-law are like neighbours; you don’t get to choose them, yet you must coexist, for better or worse. While some will make you question your marriage, others will be heaven-sent, offering unwavering support and making your life smoother. Here are the 10 types of sisters-in-law you are bound to encounter in Kenya.

The homewrecker

This one is on a relentless mission to bring your marriage down by any means necessary. Every chance she gets, she feeds your wife tales about you—some true, others wildly exaggerated or entirely fabricated. Whether out of jealousy, personal grudges, or sheer mischief, her goal is simple: to create cracks in your union, one poisonous whisper at a time.

The toxic one

She thrives on making your life a miniature hell, nitpicking at every decision you make. If she’s not criticising your career choices, parenting style, or Sunday best, she’s borrowing money and throwing a tantrum when you turn her down. When she calls, you instinctively check your account balance before picking up.

The green-eyed monster

She is envious of her sister’s life—her husband, her home, even the 32-inch TV. She is always grumbling about how “some people get all the blessings while others suffer in poverty.” If you happen to buy a new car, she suddenly develops a theory about how you must have acquired it through ‘dubious’ means.

The secret admirer

Believe it or not, this sister-in-law harbours a secret crush on her sister’s husband—you. She watches your every move, analyses your sense of style, and listens intently when your sister gushes about your romantic gestures. In her heart, she hopes to find a man just like you, but if an opportunity ever presents itself, she may not hesitate to cross the line.

The opportunist

To her, her sister’s success—and by extension, yours—is her ATM. She believes she has an undisputed right to financial assistance, whether it’s for school fees, rent, or groceries. Every call from her starts with pleasantries and quickly shifts to “Niko na shida kidogo”. Should you ever refuse to help, get ready for guilt trips and accusations of being selfish.

The ever-present guest

Your house is her second home, and she shows up unannounced, suitcase in tow. If her landlord locks her out for unpaid rent, she doesn’t even pause to consider alternatives—she’s at your doorstep. She overstays her welcome, takes over the living room, and somehow turns your house into her haven, completely ignoring your need for privacy.

The supportive helper

Now, this one is truly a blessing. She is the rock your marriage needs, offering emotional and even financial support when necessary. If she senses tension between you and your spouse, she steps in as a mediator rather than fuelling the flames. If only every sister-in-law was like her!

The passive, ‘I don’t care’ type

She exists, but barely. You only hear from her during major family events, such as funerals. She never meddles and never asks for favours. You could be celebrating a wedding anniversary, welcoming a new baby, or moving to a new house—she won’t bat an eyelid. Some might call it indifference; others see it as peaceful detachment.

The spy

This sister-in-law doubles as an undercover agent, gathering intelligence to report back to her mother. The moment she steps into your house, her eyes scan everything. Before long, you receive an unexpected phone call from your mother-in-law asking, “Mbona unatesa mtoto wangu?”

The silent observer

This one knows her boundaries. She prefers to keep to herself, even in situations where she is expected to speak up. She doesn’t interfere in marital issues or gossip, and even if she stumbles upon your secrets, she takes them to the grave. She’s the definition of ‘minding one’s business, ’ and for that, she is greatly appreciated.