Reno Omokri :I recently took a British Airways flight to Nairobi

I recently took a British Airways flight to Nairobi and felt a tinge of disappointment when I noticed that, despite being surrounded by fellow Black Africans, not a single person was dressed in traditional African attire. Everyone opted for Western clothing, while I stood out as the lone individual in native African fabrics and fashion. Interestingly, I caught some of my fellow passengers casting me sidelong glances, as if their Western outfits somehow conferred superiority. Meanwhile, the women offered me friendly smiles, for which I am thankful. This trend continued until I boarded the plane and turned left into Business Class (which, unfortunately, doesn't have a First Class section, my preferred choice), while everyone else—save for one—filed right into Economy Class. 

As Africans, we must consciously and intentionally embrace and showcase our pride in our African identity. We can achieve this by using African names and dressing in our traditional attire. It's always better to be an original than a mere imitation. No matter how much you try to adopt Western habits, you can never change your heritage, race, or history. And why would you want to? Being African is incredibly cool. Wherever I go around the world, I wear my African attire with pride. I have been welcomed by two British Prime Ministers and have spoken at the U.S. Congress, representing my heritage in traditional clothing. I find that Western individuals respect you more when you embrace your identity. For my Kenyan or Tanzanian brothers (I'm currently in Tanzania), if you admire my Aso Oke and Borno cap and would like one for free, please comment on this post. I'd love to gift a few to my fellow Africans so we can all celebrate our identity together. Please note: If your profile picture features you in Western clothing, you won't be eligible! I am only offering these gifts to those who proudly represent their culture. Sending love from me to you.