Financial conversation to have with your father before Father’s Day
By Dan Kauna, June 18, 2026Father’s Day is almost here, and while matching socks, shirts, or a dinner treat are the usual go-to gifts, there is a far more impactful way to honour your dad this year.
As parents grow older, adult children consistently defer having critical money conversations. It feels uncomfortable to bring up retirement balances, insurance policies, or estate planning over a casual cup of tea.
However, treating a father’s financial legacy as something worth protecting is one of the highest forms of respect. This Father’s Day is a good time to start these important conversations before a medical or logistical emergency forces your hand.
Finding the truth about land and savings
In Kenya, family wealth is closely tied to land and small investments. Despite this, many adult children have no idea where their parents keep their title deeds or if their savings are safe.
Waiting for a medical or financial crisis to check these details leaves families vulnerable to fraud or lost assets. Finding out if pension records are up to date or where land documents are kept ensures his hard work is protected.
Open family discussions prevent major problems later.
Tackling medical covers and wills
Another area Kenyans often skip is discussing medical insurance and wills. A sudden hospital stay can clear out family savings instantly, especially if a parent lacks a proper health cover.
Asking if his medical card needs a top-up of Sh5,000 or Sh10,000 saves the family from unexpected financial stress. The same applies to a will. While talking about estate planning feels uncomfortable, clear documentation prevents sibling arguments and keeps the family united.
Approach this with empathy. Frame it around your desire to honour his wishes and protect what he built. Use this Sunday to have that real talk, ensuring your father’s lifetime of hard work is fully safe.