Kenyan mitumba trader, Purity Wambui Maitu, has accused her ex-husband, Ambrose Mutembei, of exploiting her hard-earned efforts and neglecting their family.
Speaking through a local publication, Wambui disclosed that she single-handedly financed the construction of a house and six rental units in Mwihoko using proceeds from her mitumba business.
She also revealed that she paid her own dowry of Ksh 40,000 out of love.
Despite her efforts, Wambui alleges that Mutembei has been collecting rent from the property for the past three years without contributing to the upkeep of their three children. “I built the house entirely on my own… yet, he now collects rent while I struggle to raise our children,” she lamented.
The conflict deepened after she discovered Mutembei had rented out the main house without her consent. Feeling unsupported, Wambui threatened drastic measures, stating, “If I can’t get justice, then we’ll both lose. I’ll demolish the house if I have to.”
Their relationship, described as informal and lacking legal recognition, ended bitterly after years of what Wambui terms unreciprocated love. She has since built two more homes — a luxurious property in Nairobi and another in Ruiri, Meru.
On Monday afternoon, Mutembei reported Wambui to Mwihoko Police Post, accusing her of taking photos of “his house.” However, Wambui insists the property is hers, as she bought the land and funded the construction independently.
The dispute has drawn significant public attention, sparking discussions on justice, fairness, and property rights in informal relationships.
