Kenyan musician and businesswoman Akothee has sparked debate after sharing unconventional instructions for her burial.
The entertainer said she does not want food prepared or served at her funeral. Instead, she wants mourners to carry their own packed meals.
“If you want to eat at my funeral, please carry your packed lunch,”
Akothee said, challenging the expectation that families must provide food during burial ceremonies.
Her remarks have reignited conversations about funeral expenses, cultural traditions and the financial pressure placed on grieving families.
Akothee Rejects Funeral Feasts
Akothee questioned why mourners expect elaborate meals at funerals, arguing that the occasion should focus on mourning rather than eating.
She reportedly instructed her family not to arrange cooking or catering during her burial. She also wants attendees to carry their own water.
Her position challenges a common practice in which families and friends contribute food and other supplies during funeral preparations.
However, her comments also raise questions about how families can balance cultural expectations with the financial realities of organising burials.
Protecting Her Children’s Property
The singer has also outlined instructions concerning where she wants to be buried. Akothee reportedly does not want her body buried on any of her private home properties. She says those properties belong to her children and should remain undisturbed.
She has instead outlined a procession from the mortuary to church, past Akothee Academy and then to a public cemetery.
The instructions reflect her stated desire to keep funeral arrangements separate from her children’s homes and property.
Akothee Wants a Burial Within 48 Hours
Akothee has also reportedly requested burial within 48 hours if she dies in Kenya. If she dies abroad, she wants to be buried in the country where her death occurs rather than have her body transported back to Kenya.
The proposed arrangements would avoid the additional costs associated with international repatriation. They would also place clear expectations on her family about how she wants her final arrangements handled.
Kenyans Debate Her Unusual Wishes
Akothee’s comments have attracted attention because they challenge familiar funeral traditions. Some people may welcome her emphasis on reducing expenses and protecting family members from financial pressure.
Others may prefer traditional ceremonies that bring relatives and communities together through shared meals. Her remarks highlight the different ways people approach death, family responsibilities and cultural expectations.
Ultimately, Akothee’s stated wishes reflect her personal preferences. They have opened a wider conversation about whether families should feel obligated to spend heavily on funeral ceremonies.
