Nuya was noted for her striking appearance and strong character, comparable to that of Nassua, another influential figure in Ndesserua's life.
As Ndesserua’s health declined, Nuya gained significant influence, ultimately displacing Kekwe, the mother of Ngamini, who had previously held the position of the most powerful wife.
[4] Nuya's son, Shangali, was born approximately three years before a significant raid by the Waarusha on Machame, during which Ndesserua stepped down from his role as Mangi.
Her influence was recognized by a German Lutheran missionary in 1912, who described her as possessing a "queenly" bearing and a keen, discerning gaze, likening her to Catherine the Great in the guise of an African peasant.
[6] In contemporary remembrance, Nuya is held in the highest regard by the Machame community, celebrated as one of the most notable women in their history.