Daddie Marto, a household name in Kenya’s entertainment and digital content creation scene, has captivated audiences with his humor, relatability, and authentic storytelling. Known for his engaging social media presence and acting roles, he has carved a unique niche in the Kenyan creative industry. This comprehensive article delves into the life of Daddie Marto, covering his real name, age, education, career, family life, and more.
Who Is Daddie Marto?
Daddie Marto, whose real name is Martin Githinji, is a Kenyan actor, content creator, and media personality celebrated for his wit, family-oriented content, and versatility. With a background in media, arts, and filmmaking, he blends entertainment with education, making complex topics like parenting, relationships, technology, and farming accessible to his audience. His nickname “Daddie Marto” originated from a playful misunderstanding during his university days, which he later embraced as his brand identity.
Key Highlights of Daddie Marto’s Profile
- Real Name: Martin Githinji
- Nickname: Daddie Marto
- Profession: Actor, Content Creator, Creative Director, Performing Artist
- Known For: Family-oriented content, acting in County 49, and tech reviews
- Social Media Handles: @daddiemarto (Instagram, X, YouTube)
- Content Platforms: YouTube (MaNaPaTau), Instagram, TikTok
Daddie Marto’s Age and Early Life
While Martin Githinji’s exact birth date is not publicly disclosed, he is estimated to be in his early to mid-30s as of June 2025, based on his career timeline and life events. Born and raised in Kenya, Martin grew up with a significant age gap between himself and his younger sister—18 years—which played a pivotal role in shaping his public persona. During his time at Kenyatta University, he often spent time with his sister, leading peers to mistakenly assume he was her father. This assumption birthed the nickname “Daddie Marto,” which he leaned into due to its appeal and curiosity among peers.
Martin has openly discussed the challenges of growing up without a present father, a factor that influenced his perspective on family and fatherhood. In an interview with Mpasho, he shared that his strained relationship with his father motivated him to become the kind of father he wished he had. This personal drive is evident in his content, which emphasizes family values and providing for loved ones.
Early Life Insights
- Family Background: Grew up with a close relationship with his younger sister.
- Fatherhood Motivation: Strived to be a present and supportive father, unlike his own experience.
- Hometown: Details about his birthplace remain private, but he is deeply rooted in Kenyan culture.
Education and Career Beginnings
Martin Githinji attended Kenyatta University, where he pursued studies that aligned with his passion for media and arts. His time at KU was instrumental in developing his creative skills, particularly in storytelling and performance. The nickname “Daddie Marto” emerged during this period, sparked by his interactions with his sister on campus.
After university, Martin ventured into the entertainment industry, leveraging his charisma and creativity. His early career included roles in acting, notably in the Kenyan political thriller series County 49, where he played a security detail to the governor. His ability to connect with audiences through humor and relatability paved the way for his rise as a content creator.
Educational Background
- Institution: Kenyatta University
- Field of Study: Likely related to media, arts, or communication (exact course not specified)
- Key Influence: University life shaped his nickname and creative foundation
Career Highlights and Achievements
Daddie Marto’s career spans acting, content creation, and media production, making him a multifaceted figure in Kenya’s creative industry. His work resonates with audiences due to its authenticity and focus on everyday life, from parenting to technology reviews.
Acting Career
Martin gained recognition for his role in County 49, a Showmax political thriller series, where he showcased his acting prowess as a security detail. His performance earned praise for its depth and authenticity, cementing his status as a talented actor. Additionally, he has appeared in skits and other media projects, often collaborating with his wife.
Content Creation
As a content creator, Daddie Marto excels in “edutainment,” blending entertainment with education. His YouTube channel, MaNaPaTau (Mama na Papa Tau), co-run with his wife, focuses on marriage, parenting, and lifestyle, aiming to inspire couples and families. His content also covers:
- Tech Reviews: Simplifying complex tech topics for Kenyan audiences.
- Parenting and Relationships: Offering practical advice drawn from personal experiences.
- Construction and Farming: Sharing insights into sustainable living and entrepreneurship.
Master of Ceremonies (MC)
Martin has worked as an MC, primarily for corporate events, which he prefers over wedding gigs due to their clear-cut expectations. He has highlighted the challenges of wedding MC roles, citing family politics and emotional complexities as potential pitfalls.
Achievements
- Digital Influence: Over 76,000 likes on his Facebook page and a strong following on Instagram and TikTok.
- Brand Collaborations: Works with brands to create engaging, story-driven content.
- YouTube Channel: MaNaPaTau inspires thousands with relatable family content.
- Acting Recognition: Acclaimed for his role in County 49.
Family Life: Wife and Children
Martin Githinji was married to Christine Koku Lwanga, a Ugandan-born content creator and collaborator in their joint ventures. The couple tied the knot in a vibrant traditional Ugandan wedding in 2018 in Lubowa, Uganda, after dating for two years. Their relationship was celebrated for its warmth and authenticity, often showcased through their MaNaPaTau YouTube channel.
However, as of June 2025, Martin and Christine are estranged, following public allegations of infidelity and physical abuse made by Christine. Martin has denied these claims, emphasizing his commitment to resolving the matter legally and with dignity. The situation has drawn significant attention, but both have expressed concern for their children’s well-being amidst the separation.
Children
Martin and Christine have three children:
- Marcus Tau: Born in 2017, their first child.
- Franklin Rey: Born on August 25, 2021, weighing 3.385 kg. The couple shared his name and face publicly in November 2021.
- Third Child: Born on May 12, 2023, weighing 3.110 kg. The couple announced the pregnancy in October 2022.
Family-Oriented Content
The MaNaPaTau YouTube channel reflects their commitment to normalizing marriage and parenthood. Christine has praised Martin for creating a “warm and safe” home, highlighting his role as a dedicated husband and father. Despite their separation, their content continues to resonate with audiences seeking relatable family advice.
Personal Struggles and Resilience
Martin’s journey has not been without challenges. He has been open about financial struggles, particularly after their 2018 wedding, when fame did not translate to financial stability. The couple relied on loan apps to cover bills, a period Martin described as humbling. His ability to “gas himself” and take on diverse projects helped him overcome these hardships.
Additionally, Martin’s strained relationship with his father shaped his approach to fatherhood. He has worked to build confidence and self-esteem, focusing on being a present parent. Christine also shared similar experiences, noting her efforts to rebuild her relationship with her father.
Overcoming Challenges
- Financial Hardships: Navigated post-wedding financial struggles through resilience and diverse income streams.
- Fatherhood: Transformed personal challenges into a drive to be a supportive father.
- Public Scrutiny: Addressed allegations with a focus on legal recourse and protecting his family.
Daddie Marto’s Wife: Christine Koku Lwanga
Christine Koku Lwanga, Martin’s estranged wife, is a key figure in his personal and professional life. Born in Uganda, Christine collaborated with Martin on content creation, including acting in skits and co-hosting MaNaPaTau. She entered acting at Martin’s encouragement, initially as a way to distract her from personal challenges.
In 2022, Christine revealed she learned Martin had been married before their relationship, a discovery that tested but did not break their bond at the time. Their marriage faced public scrutiny in 2025 when Christine alleged infidelity and abuse, claims Martin denied. The couple’s separation has been emotional, particularly due to its impact on their children.
Christine’s Contributions
- Content Creation: Co-runs MaNaPaTau, offering insights on marriage and parenting.
- Acting: Collaborated with Martin in skits and media projects.
- Family Advocacy: Praised for her role in creating a loving family environment.
Daddie Marto’s Social Media Presence
Daddie Marto’s digital footprint is significant, with a strong presence on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and Facebook. His content is characterized by:
- Humor and Relatability: Engages audiences with lighthearted takes on family life.
- Educational Content: Simplifies tech, farming, and construction topics.
- Brand Partnerships: Collaborates with brands to create authentic, story-driven campaigns.
Social Media Stats (As of June 2025)
- Facebook: 76,228 likes
- Instagram: @daddiemarto, with thousands of followers
- YouTube: MaNaPaTau channel, focusing on family and lifestyle content
- X: Active engagement with fans and brands
Controversies and Public Response
In June 2025, Christine Koku Lwanga’s allegations of infidelity and physical abuse sparked widespread discussion. Christine claimed Martin was unfaithful and assaulted her after a confrontation, allegations that painted a strained picture of their marriage. Martin responded by denying the claims, emphasizing his stance against violence and commitment to legal resolution. He urged the public to exercise restraint and compassion, particularly for their children’s sake.
This controversy has tested Martin’s public image, but his focus on transparency and legal recourse reflects his intent to protect his reputation and family. The situation remains unresolved, with ongoing legal proceedings.
Why Daddie Marto Stands Out
Daddie Marto’s appeal lies in his ability to connect with audiences through authenticity and versatility. His journey from a university student with a playful nickname to a leading Kenyan content creator and actor is inspiring. Key factors that set him apart include:
- Relatability: His content resonates with Kenyan families and young professionals.
- Versatility: Spans acting, content creation, and MC roles with ease.
- Family Focus: Prioritizes providing for and inspiring his family, a value rooted in personal experiences.
- Resilience: Overcame financial and personal challenges to build a successful career.
Future Outlook for Daddie Marto
As of June 2025, Daddie Marto continues to be a prominent figure in Kenya’s creative industry. Despite personal challenges, his focus on family-oriented content, tech reviews, and acting suggests a bright future. Upcoming projects may include new acting roles, expanded YouTube content, and further brand collaborations. His ability to navigate public scrutiny while maintaining professionalism will be key to his continued success.
What to Watch For
- New Content: Expect more MaNaPaTau videos addressing modern family dynamics.
- Acting Roles: Potential for more high-profile roles in Kenyan series or films.
- Brand Partnerships: Increased collaborations in tech and lifestyle sectors.
- Personal Resolution: Updates on his legal response to allegations and family matters.
Frequently Asked Questions About Daddie Marto
1. What Is Daddie Marto’s Real Name?
Daddie Marto’s real name is Martin Githinji.
2. How Old Is Daddie Marto?
While his exact age is not public, he is estimated to be in his early to mid-30s as of 2025, based on his career and family timeline.
3. Who Is Daddie Marto’s Wife?
Martin was married to Christine Koku Lwanga, but they are estranged as of June 2025.
4. How Many Children Does Daddie Marto Have?
He has three children: Marcus Tau (born 2017), Franklin Rey (born 2021), and a third child born in 2023.
5. What Is MaNaPaTau?
MaNaPaTau is the YouTube channel run by Martin and Christine, focusing on marriage, parenting, and lifestyle.
6. What Are Daddie Marto’s Main Content Themes?
His content covers family life, parenting, relationships, technology, construction, and farming.
From his roots at Kenyatta University to his rise as an actor and content creator, Martin has built a legacy through authentic storytelling. Despite personal challenges, his commitment to his craft and family continues to inspire. Follow his journey on Instagram (@daddiemarto) or YouTube (MaNaPaTau) for the latest updates, and stay tuned for his next big project in Kenya’s dynamic creative scene.
