Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold has stressed the importance of genotype awareness, saying genotype compatibility was a major consideration in his decision to marry his wife, Simi.
The singer made the remarks during an appearance on the One54 Africa Podcast, where he called for greater awareness of sickle cell disease and the importance of knowing one’s genotype before marriage and having children.
Adekunle Gold, who has been married to fellow singer Simi since 2019, said couples should understand their genotype status and the possible implications for their children before making decisions about marriage and parenthood.
“There is so much awareness that needs to be done. If you have sickle cells, forget about love, you can’t do it because it makes no sense,” he said.
The singer argued that prospective couples should not overlook genetic compatibility in the name of romantic relationships, particularly where there could be a risk of passing sickle cell disease to their children.
“You are about to bring a child into the world and they are about to be sickly, it makes no sense,” he added.
READ ALSO:Adekunle Gold Nominated For Best African Music Act At 2026 MOBO Awards
Adekunle Gold also revealed that genotype testing was among the first things he and Simi established when they met.
“I wouldn’t have married my wife if she was SS. When we met the first thing we did was know our genotype and we match. So she is AA,” he said.
His comments come during Sickle Cell Awareness Month, observed every September to promote public understanding of sickle cell disease, encourage genotype awareness and support informed health and reproductive decisions.
Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder, and a person’s genotype can affect the likelihood of having a child with the condition depending on the genotype of their partner.
Adekunle Gold’s remarks have consequently renewed conversations around the role of genotype testing, genetic counselling and informed decision-making before marriage and childbirth.
While his comments were framed around his personal experience with Simi, the singer’s message highlighted the broader importance of couples understanding their genetic compatibility and seeking appropriate medical advice when planning families.