Kenyan YouTuber and content creator 2Mbili has stirred public conversation after gifting his girlfriend, Jackie Ogaga, a monthly allowance of Sh100,000. The gesture, proudly shared on social media by Ogaga, has reignited a longstanding debate on the relevance and implications of “girlfriend allowance” in modern relationships.
In her post, Jackie Ogaga appeared holding a substantial bundle of one-thousand-shilling notes totaling Sh100,000. She captioned the photo with a playful remark, noting that the money had arrived a bit late — suggesting that this is a regular monthly occurrence. She thanked 2Mbili for the cash, sparking mixed reactions from their followers and the broader online community.
2Mbili, not one to shy away from the spotlight, confirmed the gesture via his Instagram stories. He humorously explained the delay by saying he was “holding onto it to multiply,” implying he had been trying to invest or grow the amount before handing it over to Ogaga.
The public reaction was swift and polarized. While some applauded 2Mbili for his generosity and romantic effort, others criticized the act as an outdated or materialistic practice. The term “girlfriend allowance” refers to a monthly sum of money that a man gives his partner for her personal use — typically covering miscellaneous expenses like hair appointments, fashion, or general upkeep. It is often seen as a gesture of appreciation, though opinions on its appropriateness differ widely.
Supporters of the practice argue that it demonstrates thoughtfulness and financial support in a relationship, especially when one partner earns significantly more than the other. They view it as a symbol of affection and stability, emphasizing that such arrangements are consensual and often help foster emotional balance. In this view, 2Mbili’s action is seen as a positive example of a man taking care of his partner.
However, detractors question the deeper implications of such financial arrangements. Critics argue that girlfriend allowances may promote dependency and create unequal power dynamics in relationships. Some believe that romantic relationships should be built on emotional connection and mutual respect, not financial exchange. The idea that a woman should receive money regularly from her boyfriend just for being in the relationship is, for many, problematic.
The practice has also been labeled by some as a borrowed Western or celebrity culture phenomenon — more common in showbiz circles where public displays of wealth and lavish gifting are normalized. In contrast, more conservative or traditional communities may view such gestures as excessive or even inappropriate.
Others also raised concerns about the trend of posting such private exchanges online. Publicizing the amount of money exchanged in a relationship can invite scrutiny and jealousy, and may pressure other couples to emulate lifestyles they cannot afford. For some, the gesture loses its sincerity when it’s broadcasted for validation or clout.
Despite the backlash, 2Mbili and Jackie Ogaga seem unbothered by the noise, with many of their fans admiring the couple’s transparency and modern take on relationship roles.
Ultimately, whether or not a man should give his girlfriend a monthly allowance remains a personal choice — one that depends on the values, agreement, and financial arrangements of each couple. For 2Mbili and Ogaga, it appears to be a routine part of their relationship dynamic, one that they openly embrace.
