Pastor James Ng’ang’a of Neno Evangelism Centre recently caused a stir on social media with his unexpected response to a woman seeking help. The woman attended a service at his church, clearly heartbroken after her husband suddenly left her. She tearfully asked the pastor why her marriage had ended so abruptly.
During the service, a church usher held a microphone as the woman explained her situation. She was dressed in a red outfit and wrapped in a church-branded cloth. Pastor Ng’ang’a stood by listening before giving his response. Instead of offering comfort, he pointed to the woman’s hairstyle—short, faded on the sides, and dyed brown—and suggested that was the reason her husband left. He questioned whether the haircut was meant for men or women, and the woman admitted it looked masculine.
His reaction sparked a wide range of responses online. Some found his comments humorous, calling him entertaining, while others criticized his approach. Some social media users praised the woman’s appearance, saying she still looked beautiful, while others joked about the situation, comparing the service to a comedy show.
This is not the first time Pastor Ng’ang’a has been in the spotlight for his controversial responses. A few months ago, he declined to help Milka Moraa, a woman who said her house had been locked due to unpaid rent. He told her to report the issue to authorities or seek help from Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja. Although many were upset by his comments, Kenyans later came through for Milka, contributing money and helping her get a house through the government’s affordable housing project.
In his defense, Ng’ang’a has said his church is not responsible for helping everyone and encouraged critics to open their own churches if they want to support people.
By Kenyans