Radio presenter Alex Mwakideu has opened up about how he and his wife, Mariam Mwemba, handle their finances, revealing that they operate a joint bank account — a decision he believes has strengthened their marriage.
Speaking during a conversation with comedian and radio host Dr Ofweneke, Mwakideu explained that money matters are not something they take lightly as a couple.
He noted that debates around whether partners should merge finances or keep them separate are common, with opinions often sharply divided. However, for him, transparency around money is non-negotiable.
Financial Disputes and the Risk of Divorce
According to the seasoned broadcaster, financial disagreements remain one of the biggest triggers of marital conflict and eventual separation.
In his view, couples who fail to address money openly leave room for suspicion, resentment and misunderstandings to grow.
Mwakideu argued that getting the “money factor” right lays a solid foundation for a stable union. He emphasised that openness between spouses is key, insisting that partners should be willing to discuss their earnings honestly.
Why He Supports Joint Bank Accounts
The media personality said couples should not shy away from putting their payslips on the table, discussing salaries and agreeing on how income is managed. For him and his wife, this meant opening a joint bank account.
The account, he revealed, is simply named after both of them — “Alex and Mariam.” Each partner has full access, including the PIN and ATM cards.
Mwakideu believes this level of openness removes doubt and fosters unity, as neither partner is left guessing about the state of their finances.
How Transparency Prevents Suspicion
Mwakideu explained that secrecy around money can easily breed mistrust. When one partner claims to be short of cash without clarity, the other may begin to imagine hidden motives — from secret savings to supporting extended family behind the scenes, or even infidelity.
A shared account, he said, eliminates such assumptions because both partners can clearly see what is coming in and what is going out. This, in turn, encourages couples to grow together rather than apart.
Growing Together Through Shared Finances
He noted that when both partners understand their financial position, it becomes easier to plan, make sacrifices and work towards shared goals without suspicion clouding the relationship.
According to Mwakideu, trust is built through consistency and honesty, especially in matters as sensitive as money.
Couples who align themselves financially, he believes, are more likely to face challenges as a team rather than as individuals pulling in different directions.
Why Phone Privacy Is Different
Despite their openness about money, Mwakideu drew a clear boundary when it comes to phone privacy. When asked whether they share phone passwords or check each other’s devices, he said the situation is different.
According to him, phones often contain private conversations that are not necessarily secrets. Either partner might be communicating with close friends or family members about personal matters that do not concern the other spouse.
Balancing Openness and Personal Space
For that reason, Mwakideu said he does not know his wife’s phone password, and she does not know his. Each person keeps their phone private, while finances remain a shared responsibility.
In his view, healthy relationships require balance — openness where it matters most and respect for personal space where necessary.
BY Geoffrey mbuthia
