Kenyan comedienne Mammito Eunice recently shared on Instagram that she has been practicing celibacy throughout this year, describing it as a means to "center herself."
In her post, she highlighted the positive impact of her decision, stating, “I have been celibate this year, and it has really centered me.”
Alongside her post, she wrote, “Being able to connect with my higher self is such a beautiful journey.” Responding to her followers’ curiosity, Mammito added a humorous note, clarifying, “For those asking, I have not been using my fingers, neither have I used mbugua, my vibrator.”
The revelation sparked a strong reaction from fans, with many followers applauding her decision. Social media user Ann Mutua shared her personal experience, commenting, “I will be 5 years in Dec 26☺️…so many challenges, but I kept the promise I made to myself.”
Another follower, Jennipher, reflected on the discipline required for such a commitment, saying, “It takes self-love, self-discipline, mindfulness, mental clarity, and self-awareness.”
Others weighed in with their experiences and words of encouragement. One Instagram user, Binti, praised Mammito, acknowledging the challenges that come with celibacy:
“It’s not an easy journey!! It comes with lots of falling, repentance, and pushing on. It brings positive energy, growth, clarity, and connection to God, especially in times where sexual immorality is the order of the day.”
Jacinta, another commenter, shared how celibacy has deepened her spirituality, writing, “I have been that way 3+ years now, single, and the anointing I have seen God pour inside of me, the glow, the grace + peace…”
Mammito’s celibacy journey aligns with a larger trend on social media, particularly on TikTok, where the #celibacy hashtag has garnered over 195 million views.
Many users who embrace voluntary celibacy report benefits such as improved focus, mental health, and energy. In January 2024 alone, there was a 90% surge in Google searches for celibacy, indicating rising interest in the practice.
Dr. Justin Lehmiller, a Kinsey Institute research fellow and host of the Sex and Psychology podcast, notes, “This coincides with a long-term trend among people today... having less sex with fewer partners,” as an increasing number of people opt to abstain from sex altogether.
Mammito’s journey mirrors those of other Kenyan celebrities who have embraced celibacy at different points in their lives. Gospel artist Daddy Owen, for instance, made a similar choice after his divorce two years ago, stating that his busy schedule keeps him focused on other priorities. Rapper Juliani, now married to Lilian Ng'ang'a, also practiced celibacy before their marriage, highlighting his commitment to finding a partner who aligned with his values.
Similarly, other Kenyan public figures have shared their experiences with celibacy. Comedian YY, known offstage as Oliver Otieno, said he waited until marriage because of his belief that “good things take time.”
Motivational speaker Robert Burale, on the other hand, has been vocal about how celibacy became an important part of his life following his divorce, saying that he views sex as integral to marriage.
Other notable figures include Dr. Ofweneke, who credited poverty with pushing him into celibacy, saying he was too focused on achieving his goals to think about relationships. Gospel musician Justina Syokau shared that she embraced celibacy after her marriage ended, putting her focus on raising her son and avoiding “temptation.”