Controversial founder of Neno Evangelism Centre, Pastor James Ng’ang’a, has once again ignited conversation across social media after a video of his candid remarks on money management went viral.
Known for his blunt and unapologetic style, the outspoken preacher challenged both his congregants and fellow pastors to rethink their financial decisions, warning that poor money habits were pushing many Kenyans into avoidable debt and financial stress.
Addressing a packed congregation, Ng’ang’a urged people to apply wisdom before committing themselves to expensive purchases they could not comfortably afford.
“There are some areas where you need to use your mind,” he said, emphasizing the importance of making practical financial choices.
The fiery preacher particularly took issue with the growing trend of purchasing high-end smartphones through loans. Turning his attention to fellow pastors, he questioned the wisdom of borrowing heavily to acquire a KSh 240,000 phone.
According to Ng’ang’a, such decisions only pile unnecessary pressure on individuals who are already struggling to keep up with the rising cost of living.
“You see a pastor carrying a KSh 240,000 phone that was bought using a loan. Instead of living within your means, you fill your life with pressure. The economy is already difficult. If that phone falls, gets damaged or is stolen, your stress level doubles because you’re still paying for it,” he remarked.
Rather than chasing luxury, Ng’ang’a encouraged Kenyans to embrace simpler lifestyles. He advised followers to opt for affordable phones, jokingly referring to them as “kamulika mwizi” handsets, and keep them discreetly in their pockets instead of seeking validation through flashy gadgets.
The preacher further urged Kenyans to redirect money that would otherwise be spent on luxury items into long-term investments. He suggested purchasing affordable plots in developing areas such as Mwiki and gradually building permanent homes instead of spending years paying rent without acquiring assets.
Ng’ang’a also criticised what he described as misplaced priorities among some Kenyans, noting that many people live in modest single-room houses while servicing loans taken to purchase oversized television sets and other status symbols.
His remarks come at a time when concerns are growing over the country’s increasing dependence on digital credit facilities. Recent figures from Safaricom showed that Kenyans borrowed KSh 629.2 billion through the Fuliza overdraft service during the last financial year, representing a sharp 39.8 percent increase from the previous year.
The viral clip has since generated widespread reactions online, with many Kenyans applauding the preacher for delivering what they described as practical financial lessons from the pulpit. Others noted that while Ng’ang’a’s delivery may be controversial, his message on living within one’s means resonates with the financial realities facing many households today.
As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Pastor Ng’ang’a’s tough talk on money has struck a nerve, sparking a national conversation on debt, spending habits, and the true cost of keeping up appearances.
