Mothers and guests gathered along Kiambu Road on Saturday, 9 May, for a special Mother's Day celebration. The event was hosted by Joseph Kibathi, the CEO of The Volvo Shop Kenya, and his wife Nessy Mukiri.

The day was dedicated to honouring the influence of women in families and the business world.

Citizen TV news anchor Lillian Muli attended as a guest speaker. She shared personal insights on motherhood, career longevity, and the importance of financial independence.

×

A Tribute from the Hosts

Joseph Kibathi and Nessy Mukiri spoke warmly about the women who have supported their journey. They highlighted how mothers shape both the home and the economy.

Enjoying this article? Subscribe for unlimited access to premium sports coverage.
View Plans

“Women have been our biggest supporters and our most loyal customers over the years. As a way of appreciating them, we invited them here to celebrate Mother’s Day together and create a memorable experience for them. We carry so much love and gratitude for mothers and for the way they nurture, guide, and shape our lives,” the couple said.

The Power of Financial Security

Lillian Muli, a well-known face on Kenyan television, addressed the question of her long career. She explained that her motivation comes from her role as a mother to two boys.

“I am one of the people you've seen on your screens for a long time. A lot of people ask me, why are you still doing this thing so many years down the road? I do it because of number one, as a mother, you have to have financial security,” she said.

She stressed that financial stability is not just about money, but about the ability to provide and remain present for one's children.

The Volvo Shop Kenya Hosts Mother's Day Dinner // Courtesy

“Financial security is very important. A mother who has a bit of change is a happy mother. You can provide for your children. You're present. You're able to juggle,” she added.

Muli encouraged mothers to be strategic in their professional lives. She advised against making impulsive decisions based on temporary emotions in the workplace.

Kindness Within the Home

A significant part of Muli's message focused on the relationship between mothers and their domestic staff. She noted that nannies are the ones who feed and care for children, often while the parents are away or working late.

Muli urged mothers to treat their nannies as part of the family. She pointed out that these women often leave their own children behind to care for others.

"If your children are your heart, then you have to live as a family [with your nannies]. These are the same people who are feeding your child. They are also human beings. Let's just be kind,” she encouraged.

A Delicate Balance

The news anchor admitted that managing domestic help is a delicate balance. However, she maintained that a foundation of kindness is essential. She shared that she tries to keep her nannies for long periods, only seeing them move on when they start their own families.

The Volvo Shop Kenya Hosts Mother's Day Dinner // Courtesy

Muli noted that having reliable help allows mothers to enjoy time with their spouses and maintain a healthy lifestyle. She emphasised that being a "nasty" employer only creates a negative environment for the child.

The event concluded with a sense of community. Muli, who described herself as a long-time friend of Nessy Mukiri, expressed her honour at being part of the celebration.