In Kenya, a divorced wife's right to inherit her ex-husband's property is complex and not automatic, unlike that of a current spouse. This explainer clarifies the specific circumstances under which a divorced woman can legally claim a share of her deceased ex-husband's estate under the Law of Succession Act.

• A divorced wife can inherit if explicitly named in the deceased's will, even if drafted before the divorce.
• Under Section 26 of the Law of Succession Act, an ex-spouse may claim inheritance if proven to be a dependant, especially if already receiving maintenance like alimony.
• The Matrimonial Property Act 2013 allows claims on properties acquired during marriage, but the division is based on proven contributions, which can be both monetary and non-monetary, and requires proof of co-ownership.