@wakiams: the use of a father's name is an unconditional right of every child! As long as the father is known,the child has the right to use his name. It is immaterial whether he provide support (financial,material emotional...etc) or not. This simple fact that he is known to be the father is all that matters.

Sometimes adults completely misunderstand the needs [and rights] of children.....that's why so many become 'baba na mama mkate'. They imagine that children place value on material things.

It is very important for a child to know who their father and mother are; even if the parents are absent. Imagine a child who is not able to answer the simple question like 'What ia your father's name?' Surely,how can you not know?

Advise her to use the father’s name. The child will come to respect her more when she grows up because she will realise her mother was not petty. Which surname is the child using currently?

SK is great

You can get very good and mature advise here.

Reading some posts makes it look as if it's 'wrong' or awkward to use your Mothers name...is it really? I know a lot of people who use their Mums name and honestly to me,it's no big deal. Remember Wanjiru the athlete? I wonder if he knows his dad or not.

Advice is what we ask for when we already know the answer but wish we didn't..