Comedian Akuku Danger says he has chosen to remain childless due to sickle cell anaemia.
Kenyan comedian Mannerson Ochieng, popularly known as Akuku Danger, has revealed why he has decided not to have children, a decision inspired by his lifelong battle with sickle cell anaemia.
In an interview on October 1, 2025, Akuku explained that while he is physically capable of fathering children, he has chosen not to, fearing the risk of passing the sickle cell gene to his offspring.
“Mimi saa hizi bado sina mtoto. It’s not that I can’t; I can. But I choose to live a life yenye I have to be very keen on what happens around me. I wouldn’t want to bring another child in this world, mwenye bado anaenda kuwa na the same condition,” he said.
Akuku has long been open about how the condition has shaped his life, from frequent hospital stays to losing loved ones, including his younger sister, to the same disease.
During the interview, he emphasised the importance of genetic screening for couples before having children, but noted that he personally prefers to live in a childless marriage.
“It is my job to make sure that sickle cell dies with me. Kama ni lazima to procreate, we have to do the screening with the spouse tujue kama ako na carrier. Lakini mimi nimeamua sitaki mtoto,” he added.
His bold admission has sparked widespread support, with fans commending his courage and vulnerability. Many have also applauded him for raising awareness about sickle cell disease and its impact on families in Kenya.
Born in Migori County in 1990, Akuku Danger was diagnosed with sickle cell early in childhood and has since faced numerous health challenges. Despite the pain and setbacks, he has used his platform to advocate for routine genotype screening and support for those living with the disease.
Akuku says his decision is not rooted in fear but in responsibility, a choice made out of love and care for any potential child. While he deeply admires parenthood, he believes bringing a child into the world who might endure the same struggles would be unfair.
Akuku Danger’s decision has reignited vital conversations about genetic awareness, responsible parenting, and the reality of living with chronic illness in Kenya.
