Radio Jambo presenter Jacob “Ghost” Mulee has sparked national conversation after openly declaring his wish to be cremated rather than buried, a decision he says he’s already shared with his family.
Speaking on-air with his co-host Joseph Ogidi (Gidi) during their popular show Patanisho, Ghost Mulee candidly explained his personal preference, stating that cremation aligns with his views on space, simplicity, and sustainability.
“Yes, that was my original plan,” Ghost said with a chuckle. “The other day I went to Ukambani, and the elders called me for a serious sit-down. They asked me, ‘Have you become meat? Why do you want to be cremated?’ They’d been listening to the show! But still, I haven’t changed my mind. If I leave this world today, please cremate me.”
His comments, though made with humor, have ignited fresh debate on how Kenya views death, culture, and modern funeral practices.
A Growing Shift Toward Cremation?
Ghost Mulee isn’t alone in his thinking. In April 2025, Classic 105’s Maina Kageni made a similar statement, saying he not only prefers cremation but has already included it in his will.
“I will be cremated when I die. The very next day, I want to be in Kariokor. I don’t even want a requiem mass,” Maina stated on-air. “We must start letting go of some of these cultural expectations. There’s no land left, and burying people in the ground is not sustainable.”
His comments came amid rising concern over overcrowding at Lang’ata Cemetery, Nairobi’s largest public cemetery. The Ministry of Health recently recommended its closure, warning that graves were being dug too shallow and new bodies were being laid on top of older ones.
Tradition vs. Practicality
Traditionally, burial has been the widely accepted method of laying loved ones to rest in Kenya, deeply rooted in cultural and religious beliefs. However, increasing urbanization, land scarcity, and changing attitudes—especially among younger generations—are beginning to shift that narrative.
Cremation, once considered taboo in many communities, is slowly gaining acceptance. Affordability, convenience, and environmental sustainability are driving this quiet shift.
Still, for many families and elders, the emotional and cultural weight of burying a loved one remains powerful.
“When I brought it up, people looked at me like I’d betrayed my roots,” Ghost admitted. “But at the end of the day, it’s about what I want—and it’s in my will.”
Cremation in Kenya: Where It Stands
Cremation services are available in major towns like Nairobi and Mombasa, with Kariokor Crematorium being the most well-known. However, access, awareness, and cultural acceptance remain low in rural areas.
Legal experts also advise that individuals include cremation wishes explicitly in their wills to avoid family disputes after death.
Have Your Say
Would you consider cremation for yourself or a loved one? Is Kenya ready to move away from traditional burial customs? Share your thoughts with us on @WTVKenya or comment below.
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