Pastor James Maina Ng’ang’a of Neno Evangelism Church has sparked debate after advising his followers not to buy mobile phones worth more than KSh20,000, arguing that expensive devices can push people into unnecessary debt.
Speaking during a church session in a video that has since spread widely online, the preacher urged Kenyans to be careful about their spending habits, especially when purchasing smartphones.
According to him, many people end up borrowing money or taking loans to buy phones they cannot comfortably afford, only to spend months struggling to clear the debt.
Ng’ang’a questioned why someone would spend KSh20,000 or more on a phone if doing so would create financial pressure.
He said that people who buy expensive gadgets through loans often find themselves constantly worried about repayments instead of focusing on other important needs.
The preacher noted that some individuals even turn to mobile loan services to finance such purchases, a move he believes can worsen their financial situation. He argued that while modern smartphones are useful tools, people should avoid making purchases that exceed their financial ability.
His remarks quickly attracted attention online, with many social media users sharing different views on his advice. Some agreed with him, saying that many people fall into debt because of lifestyle choices and the desire to own the latest devices. Others felt that individuals should have the freedom to spend their money as they choose, provided they can afford it.
Interestingly, Ng’ang’a revealed that he personally owns a phone worth more than KSh240,000. He said he had previously been offered KSh160,000 for the device but declined to sell it.
The pastor explained that despite the high value of his phone, he mainly uses it for common applications such as Facebook, YouTube and WhatsApp. He said he does not rely heavily on many other apps and that the device mainly serves his communication and online engagement needs.
Ng’ang’a further stated that he carries the premium phone because it aligns with his public image whenever he attends events and interacts with people. His comments drew further discussion, with some people questioning the difference between his personal choice and the advice he gives to members of his congregation.
The latest remarks add to a long list of statements that have kept the outspoken preacher in the public spotlight. Over the years, Ng’ang’a has frequently attracted attention through his direct opinions on social, financial and religious matters.
He was recently the subject of public discussion following a disagreement involving Naomi Maina, a woman he claims is his daughter. That dispute generated widespread reactions online, adding to the controversies that have often surrounded the preacher’s public life.
His latest comments on smartphone spending have once again triggered conversations about personal finance, debt and the balance between lifestyle choices and financial responsibility.