Nothing is African about Nairobi - How African Culture is Slowly Fading Away

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  • Опубліковано 10 січ 2025
  • Hello this is my first video essay on Nairobi popular culture. I talk about how Nairobians are not really African anymore and the loss of African culture. We shall explore colonialism and Afrophobia within Nairobians. I hope you enjoy the video and do tell me, what you would like to see next!
    Resources:
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 309

  • @Blumeivy
    @Blumeivy 4 дні тому +88

    Africanness is not a monolith, it evolves. Africanness is a complex and multifaceted identity that goes far beyond surface-level appearances or behaviors. Nairobi’s identity is a fusion of traditional and contemporary influences, showcasing how cultures adapt in urban settings. Sheng, Gengetone music, Mugithi, Kitenge fashion, and even matatu graffiti embody a distinctly Kenyan urban identity. Claiming Nairobians lack Africanness ignores this cultural expression.

    • @Blumeivy
      @Blumeivy 4 дні тому +17

      The term “Afrophobic” carries weight and should be used thoughtfully. To label Nairobians as Afrophobic dismisses their deep connection to African identity. Nairobi is a melting pot of African cultures, like you said people from all over Kenya and the continent converge here, celebrating their diverse traditions through music, food, fashion, and language.Misusing Afrophobic to describe Nairobians dilutes the seriousness of actual anti-African prejudice.

    • @Blumeivy
      @Blumeivy 4 дні тому +6

      While there are valid concerns about cultural erosion or the prioritization of Western standards, particularly among urban youth or in professional spaces, this is often counterbalanced by a growing pride in African heritage.

    • @dennismunyaka6537
      @dennismunyaka6537 4 дні тому +1

      gengetone is not african.

    • @4ngelorules
      @4ngelorules 4 дні тому +2

      @@Blumeivy all your points are correct but she's specifically speaking on a certain demographic not all nairobians, not all gen-z.

    • @AndrewGarai-c8p
      @AndrewGarai-c8p 4 дні тому

      The domination of western culture / standards are palpable in Nairobi and especially in gengetone and arbatone genres which mislead the youth into false dreams of cultural success.

  • @Hpd4395
    @Hpd4395 4 дні тому +38

    Think you guys need to separate "African" from "modern". Nairobi is modern because that's just how most of the modern world looks like.

    • @Boostergold2025
      @Boostergold2025 15 годин тому

      Have you been to any other big African cities?

    • @arnoldmbuthia2687
      @arnoldmbuthia2687 3 години тому

      In your mind, African can’t be modern. And modernity can’t exist in African culture. And what you’re referring to as modernity is just western models. In Asian countries such as Chongching, they still manage to maintain their identity despite being arguably more advanced than Nairobi.

    • @Alfred_Mwakera
      @Alfred_Mwakera Годину тому +1

      Exactly, what exactly is 'African'.
      We don't have any input in the world when it comes to innovation, technology and advanced living standards..
      We're simply just Africans..

  • @lakeishaodinga2068
    @lakeishaodinga2068 5 днів тому +31

    This is a topic I could spend 5 hours ranting about as a yapper. Summarizing it to 10 mins is a dream. Thank you❤

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  5 днів тому +1

      Thanks so much for watching! Tried my best to compress information

    • @dudusblack
      @dudusblack 3 дні тому

      @@whoisnashiii Amazing

  • @meughh1406
    @meughh1406 4 дні тому +16

    Nothing i love more than a well researched, sophisticated videoessay!! you ate

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  4 дні тому

      Thanks so much for watching! I’m glad u liked it!

    • @mantality312
      @mantality312 День тому

      This is literally the opposite of that.

  • @bradleylibese5742
    @bradleylibese5742 3 дні тому +15

    It's not often you come across well researched and insightful content like this. Love it

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  3 дні тому +1

      @@bradleylibese5742 thank u so much🕺🏾

  • @GukaModrich
    @GukaModrich День тому +2

    Great content,
    Ukiomoka ,nipee kibarua ya editing.

  • @ZoomToYourDoom
    @ZoomToYourDoom 3 дні тому +5

    I’m new to your channel and as a black American this explained a lot of what I was feeling here in Nairobi! I’ve been here for over a year and a lot of the things I felt you verbalized perfectly! Looking forward to more deep dives!

  • @xnyabungu
    @xnyabungu 5 днів тому +12

    This is so insightful and so real.
    Really puts into perspective this inclination to social climbing and how essential it has been then to create 'micro-classes' to create the illusion of progression into western sophistication and wealth proximity. Consciousness is such a gift, I cannot wait to see more of this !

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  5 днів тому

      @@xnyabungu thanks for watching and always indulging in my ideas! Love ya!

  • @thandekaxulu1060
    @thandekaxulu1060 3 дні тому +6

    We are suffering from the same fate here in South Africa, but this whole thing can be slowly chanhed in time I believe, we need to teach the knowledge of self to our kids so they can turn things around.

  • @kennedymunyua9014
    @kennedymunyua9014 4 години тому +1

    True..i started working as a bodaboda guy and you realize that Nairobi has alot of foreigners...especially rich surbubs...

  • @notmwangi
    @notmwangi 20 годин тому +1

    This discussion would be better as a *discussion*
    With people from all facets of the city
    Nairobi is a city of 6 million people, ~2 million of whom work in the city and live outside it
    There are parts of Nairobi where ppl speak 100% in mother tongue and/or Kiswahili and eat 100% traditional food and listen to vernacular Kenyan (there's sooo many bars that play Luo, Kikuyu, Kamba, Kalenjin etc. music in Nairobi) and other African music, including Afrobeats and modern Kenyan. And it's not a small proportion at all!
    You've pointed out a genuine phenomenon, but tembea (literally) Nairobi and you'd be shocked at how African it is for most working class people

  • @klaw1425
    @klaw1425 3 дні тому +6

    The topic of Africanism fading away in Nairobi and the broader African culture diminishing in Kenya is eloquently stated. However, the reasons you have provided for why Nairobi’s culture is losing its African identity come across as excuses and a denial of reality, bordering on self-degradation.
    It is worth noting that the same colonial powers you referred to also colonized India and many other Asian countries. Yet, despite facing similar challenges, Indians have managed to preserve their culture and traditions without succumbing to full conformity to Western standards. This demonstrates that the Westernization of Kenya is not purely a product of colonialism but rather a self-imposed shift that reflects a lack of cultural prioritization and self-esteem.
    Kenya must take deliberate steps to preserve its cultural heritage and traditions, much like India has done. It should strive to embrace its roots, promote Pan-Africanism, and honor the visionary legacy of leaders like Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Ghana stands as a testament to the power of cultural pride and self-awareness. Similarly, Kenya can reclaim its identity by fostering self-esteem and rejecting the notion of Western cultural superiority.
    My dear sister, you have addressed critical issues with eloquence and insight. May God bless you abundantly for your effort. I humbly ask you to consider my perspective.

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  3 дні тому +4

      @@klaw1425 thank you for watching, as I said in the video, Kenya’s strategy for fighting against colonisers was to become more European. Which meant letting go of their own culture. Also it is worth noting that with colonialism in Africa, it was to degrade the Black person. It was not like Asians who just happened to be colonised. We were seen as less than human, so it is no shock we avoid all the realities that come with that.

    • @klaw1425
      @klaw1425 3 дні тому +2

      @@whoisnashiiiI’m truly amazed at your incredible talent and dedication to this must talk topic you’re very intelligent and passionate I’m amazed

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  3 дні тому +2

      @@klaw1425 thank you so much for these sentiments! I am truly grateful

  • @najitephoenix
    @najitephoenix 4 дні тому +16

    Thanks SO much for this. I just moved from Dakar, Senegal to Nairobi a few weeks ago (though I was born and raised in the UK). And have been planning to do a video on how conflicted I've been feeling about how "like home" everything is. And how awful it feels to buy honey that tastes like gold, and pure, "luxury" water that's sourced from estates owned by white descendents of colonisers.
    As you said "a European's Wet Dream".
    It's also not lost on me, the amount of us moving here from the West, telling others to come too because "it's so much like Europe/America", without any critical thinking or dialogue about what that means, our intentions and/or the intentions of those we are coaxing to come live the American dream on African soil.
    What got me is you mentioning how the set-up allows us to live here without getting a taste of Kenyan culture. Absolutely. And not only that, it's also difficult for those actively seeking it. But I trust that those who want to find it/reconnect eventually will.
    I will absolutely be linking to you when I get around to the video. Would also love to connect/chat with you. You are a gem.

    • @chizirada865
      @chizirada865 4 дні тому

      "luxury" water that's sourced from estates owned by white descendents of colonisers". What are you talking about?

    • @muthoninjogu8080
      @muthoninjogu8080 4 дні тому +3

      I used to live in Dakar. I miss it so much. Coming back, I run to Mombasa. Nairobi is ALOT

    • @antony6799
      @antony6799 3 дні тому +2

      Africa is getting modern,it's silly to expect it to remain the same, even culture evolves in virtually all societies. Why is it only considered colonisation/westernization when African modernizes? The Chinese, Latinos, Arabs, Asians are doing the same and they aren't getting called names.

    • @najitephoenix
      @najitephoenix 3 дні тому +1

      @@muthoninjogu8080 Yeah, Dakar has a big place in my heart - I only left due to the Sahara dust (had me hospitalised with Asthma). I also was struggling with the lack of greenery/parks. But vibe/culture/people/politics - I love it.

    • @najitephoenix
      @najitephoenix 3 дні тому +1

      @@antony6799 are you commenting on something I said specifically? Because I didn't say anything about it having to stay the same. Growth is a sign of life.
      This, however, is questioning why this "growth" looks so European.
      And either way, I'm not sure why you assume that Asians, for example, aren't having similar conversations about the Westernization of their culture. They are.

  • @Bi-goddess
    @Bi-goddess 3 дні тому +5

    Hujambo sister, As a Kenyan i am deeply sorry for your experience, i totaly agree with you one thousand percent. Unfortunately many Kenyans are quickly forgetting their African Beauty and Are adapting a European lifestyle.
    It hurts me so bad to see my country worshiping Whiteness and glorifiying whitness as beauty.
    Its so disgusting how Kenyans promote Whiteness as a God, they even go as far as to treat Whites as Holy, very similar to India 😢
    I love you sister, stay amazing, stay beautiful, and never be afraid to expose the truth, 💚❤️🇰🇪🌍🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤

  • @yyrdiaries
    @yyrdiaries 7 годин тому +1

    Ok thats it.
    This is my sign to start the youtube channel ive being so afraid to do.
    Girl you are stunning.
    And i totally agree with you, the internailsed inferiority complex we have will make us, or rather - has already began making us lose ourselves in the pursuit of "whiteness" without even realising it.
    Ive had this convo with so many people but no one seems to understand.

  • @bryanadam3195
    @bryanadam3195 День тому +1

    Great video, I totally agree with your take on this unfortunate state of affairs. One thing I find to be particularly interesting is the contribution of income/wealth inequality (of our parents as Gen Z) to this feeling of neocolonialism that we seem to be going through. Personally, I went to an international school and after graduating and joining uni is only when I realised how out of touch I was with reality. And the funny thing is, my school is considered more ‘kienyeji’ than the top international schools so I’ve always had this feeling of being considered a “cool kid” by guys who went 844 and yet still being considered as “kienyo” by guys who went to the top IG schools. I believe the hierarchy of cool kids/kienyo kids throughout high school is something worth studying and having its own video :)

  • @yellowmellow7748
    @yellowmellow7748 4 дні тому +3

    I've thought about this often and what gets me the most is that alot of guys out here don't know how to speak their local dialect. Wa naskia lakini sijui kuongea and others hawaelewi kabisa. We are the new generation of parents so gen alphas and betas wa Nairobi hawatakua wanajua kitu.
    Siku hizi hadi kuna watoi hawaongei kiswahili😔

  • @glowtechvisuals6176
    @glowtechvisuals6176 3 дні тому +1

    My grandfather worked for Woodley where woodley estates was demolished. He was the man servant.
    Good story. Keep it up.

  • @peterkariuki3850
    @peterkariuki3850 2 дні тому +1

    that's where I have I problem with Nairobi culture that is sweeping through Kiambu as we speak as many kids are growing up not knowing Kikuyu. Just speaking Kiswahili (sheng) and English and some times just English. A survey was done in Ruiru where 20 kids in 2000 knew their native language Kikuyu. If such trends continue, my language and culture (the most populated in my country) will die before my eyes.

  • @Easyork
    @Easyork 3 дні тому +3

    Good Documentary of Nairobi, Now make one for an alternative African Nairobi or an Example of an alternative African City without Outside Influence.

  • @lindakajuju
    @lindakajuju 3 дні тому +3

    There's an identity crisis in this city which makes people so far removed. Whoever said Nairobi is the starter pack for Africa was right because the city feels so westernized than it is localized. This is so well articulated, very informative. More of this please, thank you!

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  2 дні тому

      thanks for watching, hopefully we shall find an identity and lose so much of ourselves, more videos coming soon!

    • @EugeneMax-s6s
      @EugeneMax-s6s 9 годин тому

      starter pack because people expect africa to be about the hard life,underdeveloped and just displaying this so called "culture" whatever that means ...cause people go for ruracios and other traditional gatherings but obviously not in the city cause they need to be carried out in your anscestral home in Kenya basically "ushago" that doesnt make their day to day less African but i think its people in Nairobi born in the middle to upper class that have always distanced themselves in their lifestyle for years in malls and other "westernized" institutions then come saying how Nairobi isnt African enouogh😂

  • @Rayjack-m9o
    @Rayjack-m9o 3 дні тому +2

    African Culture is Diverse and evolving as it must And as it should.

  • @taheeyarebane1943
    @taheeyarebane1943 5 днів тому +2

    This was a great video I randomly stumbled upon and really enjoyed watching!

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  5 днів тому

      Thanks so much for watching! Means a lot

  • @hefttefla4372
    @hefttefla4372 2 дні тому +1

    Every part of the country is fighting Colonialism.
    They aren't fighting the corruption they are partly responsible for cause that would make them responsible for solving the problems.

  • @davieskelmen7125
    @davieskelmen7125 3 дні тому +3

    I think that you are onto something. But you are still groping in the dark. U seem to imagine Gen Z as the first generation of independent Kenya. Appreciate the literary works of Major Mwangi, Ngugi, Grace Ogot, Binyavanga. The paintings Elungat and Mukabi, The music of Daudi Kabaka, the Mushrooms, Mzee Ngala up until Sauti Soul.
    Nairobi indeed has a colonial heritage that is deep and evident. However, it is also a melting pot of various African cultures and traditions .
    We see today an emergence of truly Kenyan traditions for weddings with similar traits.
    Nairobi culture is its own unique culture.
    You are onto something great. See Nairobi for the tapestry that it is

  • @damienwar5896
    @damienwar5896 3 дні тому +3

    I am from New York currently visiting Nairobi, you said everything I was thinking ! Spot on 🎯 🎯🎯Glovo and uber are must ! Sarit center and Westgate mall is all you need to know ! Shopping in carrefour feels like back home in Walmart ! Best food Nigerian and Indian ! 🤷🏾‍♂️🫡

  • @klaw1425
    @klaw1425 3 дні тому +2

    "If Kenyans do not change their Western-oriented mindset and adopt African culture and traditions, then we, the people of Ghana, will be forced to take drastic measures to assert our Pan-African ideals. We believe in the importance of embracing our African heritage and promoting unity among African nations. However, if Kenyans refuse to conform to this vision, we will have no choice but to take action to protect and promote our shared African values, by any means necessary, in the spirit of Pan-Africanism."
    Note

    • @Bi-goddess
      @Bi-goddess 3 дні тому

      As a Kenyan I APPLOUD and am SO GRATEFUL for your beautiful truthful statement.
      It's so disgraceful how Kenyans see whiteness as a beauty and promoting Whiteness all over Africa.
      As a Kenyan I LOVE GHANA AND GHANAIANS. 🇰🇪🖤🇬🇭, Because GHANAIANS have the heart of a lion and the attitude of a K.I.N.G,
      I wish my country Kenya was like Ghana, by promoting African Americans to come home to Africa instead of talking down on The African diaspora worldwide, I wish Kenyans would put there foot down and Stand up to these devil Oboronyis.
      It's DEFINITELY disgusting how us Kenyans bow down to the devil Oboronyis, and treat them as holy.
      If Kenyans don't change their Western oriented mindset, they will end up as number 1 country after India for boot liking to evil Whites
      I love you my brother, Africa Love
      And Deepest LOVE to Ghana From Kenya 🖤🇰🇪🖤🇬🇭❤️🇬🇭🖤🇰🇪 Black LOVE

  • @syrah2534
    @syrah2534 11 годин тому

    Extremely intelligent, top 10 yt videos OAT

  • @jeongincanspeakorean
    @jeongincanspeakorean 5 днів тому +4

    This is such a well documented video! Keep it uppp ❤🫶🏾

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  5 днів тому

      @jeongincanspeakorean thank u so much!

  • @hefttefla4372
    @hefttefla4372 2 дні тому +1

    Pre-colonialism Nairobi was maasai territory. I'm a Kikuyu from Nyahururu, my grandma used to have episodes where she would insist we have to train to prepare for 'mukabi'(maasai)
    Pretending none of us chose what we do in a country 50 yrs old is reductive.
    Nairobi is a capital, it connects the country to the world. Most countries speak English so it would literally be stupid not to teach your citizens English.

    • @arnoldmbuthia2687
      @arnoldmbuthia2687 2 години тому

      Precolonial Nairobi was Maasai and Kikuyu. Where do you think Waiyaki wa Hinga was. Who do you think used to live in present day Parklands and Muthaiga?

    • @arnoldmbuthia2687
      @arnoldmbuthia2687 2 години тому

      The Maasai also were in areas of Nyahururu. There’s a reason why there’s people called Nyokabi. The kikuyu interacted a lot with a lot of pastoral communities. That’s why there’s no single way to define the physical appearance of a kikuyu person.

  • @user1502-y1x
    @user1502-y1x 4 дні тому +4

    *sighs* First of all, thank you for this!!! I was so troubled by how suddenly as a nation esp gen-z we moved to suddenly all liking the same things (this is like a topic in itself but...) Franco, baggy jeans and can we talk about how suddenly everyone has an accent, like when did that happen?? Istg I have put a name to what I was observing. Thank you!!!

    • @solidhoneyyyy
      @solidhoneyyyy 4 дні тому +3

      This is also me with the rise of so many American fast food chains in Nairobi. Globalization is happening at a very fast pace and I hate it. Also, the association people make with these fast food chains with upward social mobility. I'm glad someone is talking about it.

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  3 дні тому +2

      @@solidhoneyyyy true, it’s all part of the imperial landscape, also so unsustainable and less fresh produce. We cannot let it happen.

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  3 дні тому +2

      @@user1502-y1x thanks so much for watching. I shall also explore what we can do to integrate a piece of our culture back to us. Trust we shall be okay!

  • @RoseGold_Ronniee
    @RoseGold_Ronniee 3 дні тому +1

    This was beyond informative and so well orchestrated! So much info within 10mins including research backed by facts! My husband and I are looking to move from the west to Nairobi to give our kids more time with others who look like them and Kenyan’s beautiful culture…. But from what I’ve been hearing from not only you but others who are actually from a country in Africa, I’m not sure if we’ll even get that… but I love Kenyans so we’re gonna take our chances but it would of been nice to know we’d be amongst them and their culture🙏🏽🙏🏽♥️♥️

  • @wanjikuhiuhu
    @wanjikuhiuhu 5 днів тому +6

    2025 is officially on. Let me be the first to comment on here, so glad you're on yt.

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  5 днів тому +2

      Thank for you for commenting ❤and thanks for watching

  • @nicholastoo858
    @nicholastoo858 2 дні тому

    First video I'm watching from you. It's good. Please keep it like that... Conscious serious talks. Unlike other podcasts that just joke around.

  • @kevinlipps2817
    @kevinlipps2817 День тому

    Gentrification is currently a global phenomenon, manifesting in various locations around the world. While there are exceptions, I have observed that many of the major urban centers in Africa, such as Nairobi, exhibit characteristics similar to those found in other non-Afrocentric processes.
    The influence of foreign entities is increasingly evident in various locations, owing to the characteristics of prominent technology companies and technocrats.

  • @cirur.3934
    @cirur.3934 2 дні тому +1

    Beautiful video. Thank you❤.
    My 2 cants perhaps it's not an entirely bad thing not to be too identified with culture. It would be great to revive and celebrate our cultures and we should, but we shouldn't get too entangled with them because ultimately what needs to rise is human consciousness, starting with an African awakening.
    I feel alot of the younger generation in Kenya has a more national and global consciousness because they're not too rooted in cultural norms and expectations. We can use our "lack of cultural connection" challenges to our advantage by becoming one of the most inclusive countries in the world.
    In my experience, by including others you lose nothing of yourself, instead, you expand. But it must be done in awareness. Just a thought 😊

  • @joeasiago5213
    @joeasiago5213 2 дні тому

    I believe decolonisation is not only possible but can be obtained real fast because it's a thing of the mind, no physical chains. This video is a strong tool for decolonisation and that's why it's gold

  • @olgalemisha
    @olgalemisha 5 днів тому +3

    So glad UA-cam recommended your video for me. I've watched your videos about this on tiktok and you really made me realise how colonised we still are. I love how your brain works you're so smart keep up the good work
    Side note: I LOVE your hair it's looks so good😍

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  5 днів тому +1

      @@olgalemisha thanks for the support wow! Was super nervous abt the transition to UA-cam 💗this means a lot

  • @dutchez0144
    @dutchez0144 5 днів тому +22

    It is Americanization where people try to act like an average American, which was promoted by opening the Kenyan markets to things like mtumba etc. that prevented us from evolving by ourselves rather we adopted the Western way of life because it was cheaper and readily available to the middle class

    • @niknik4260
      @niknik4260 4 дні тому +4

      Hakuna kitu kama cheaper we were forced. Like mtumba we are forced to import because of our trade deals with the USA

    • @63hdhdbilwo
      @63hdhdbilwo 3 дні тому +2

      Tv what are Watching,what kind of music you listening
      ,who's product are you using.Angalia tz everything done is swahili,English starts in high-school..Meanwhile millenials and gen x parents fluent in mother tongue yet their kids can't utter a word,wengine hata kuongea swahili ni shidaaa

    • @klaw1425
      @klaw1425 3 дні тому +1

      It’s just a excuses ; taking a look at India they were colonized by colonizers, Indians fight for freedom and still maintained their culture and traditions

    • @MaryMW-i3j
      @MaryMW-i3j 3 дні тому

      I like Mtumba myself because of quality stuff. Mtumba is affordable so many people with minimal wages get clothed. It also creates employment to so many people.

    • @klaw1425
      @klaw1425 3 дні тому +1

      The topic of Africanism fading away in Nairobi and the broader African culture diminishing in Kenya is eloquently stated. However, the reasons you have provided for why Nairobi’s culture is losing its African identity come across as excuses and a denial of reality, bordering on self-degradation.
      It is worth noting that the same colonial powers you referred to also colonized India and many other Asian countries. Yet, despite facing similar challenges, Indians have managed to preserve their culture and traditions without succumbing to full conformity to Western standards. This demonstrates that the Westernization of Kenya is not purely a product of colonialism but rather a self-imposed shift that reflects a lack of cultural prioritization and self-esteem.
      Kenya must take deliberate steps to preserve its cultural heritage and traditions, much like India has done. It should strive to embrace its roots, promote Pan-Africanism, and honor the visionary legacy of leaders like Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. Ghana stands as a testament to the power of cultural pride and self-awareness. Similarly, Kenya can reclaim its identity by fostering self-esteem and rejecting the notion of Western cultural superiority.
      My dear sister, you have addressed critical issues with eloquence and insight. May God bless you abundantly for your effort. I humbly ask you to consider my perspective.

  • @lilricchie5013
    @lilricchie5013 День тому

    I really like how you examined the issue on how people living in Nairobi are adapting to Western culture. A question that kept coming back to me while watching this video though is: what is Kenyan culture actually? I feel like I don't really know what the culture is here. Are we so far gone that we don't even know what our culture is exactly?

  • @joy.rono04
    @joy.rono04 4 дні тому +1

    Wow. This is lovely. Spoke nothing but facts. Well said✨

  • @kiboinderitu8431
    @kiboinderitu8431 4 дні тому +2

    You can listen to a video essay called, "Consequences of Americanization" by Courts sense. This is a cultural global issue. It's hitting Europe just as much as Kenyans. Some people resent their Americanization some don't.

  • @muturikanini9176
    @muturikanini9176 3 дні тому +2

    Thank you Kenya is quickly becoming Americanised

  • @mathengewaweru6796
    @mathengewaweru6796 2 дні тому +1

    Amazing video first of all. You should do more of this. Let me share some thoughts below:
    I am not sure where I read this but the author said that the greatest achievement of colonialism in Africa was the creation of the middle class. By convincing Africans to abandon their culture and strive to become like the West, we have made it easier for white people to live and work among us and even take advantage of us. It allows global imperialist functions like the IMF and World Bank to slide unobstructed into Africa and tell us what to do through their gateway to Africa, Nairobi.
    As a Kenyan and a Gen Z from a middle class family, I often feel more connected to tech bros in Silicon Valley than my own relatives who live in upcountry. Hell, I cannot even speak the language. My mother tongue is not even Kikuyu, it is English because that's the 1st language I started speaking. I keep convincing myself that I don't need to learn my culture because I will not need it in Nairobi and my line of work. I even consider myself a global citizen that is not confined to any culture. But deep down, there is always that feeling of disconnection, an unsettling feeling of being lost and without a foundation. With each interaction where someone tries to speak to me in Kikuyu and I don't understand, I feel it.
    Gen Z is at a crossroads. We may be the 1st generation in Kenya that will have to grapple with the consequences of being too Westernized and disconnected from our African roots. It will bite us hard and will have to choose either to rediscover our African roots, create a new identity that fills the void or live as slaves on our own continent. This is uncharted territory.

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  2 дні тому +1

      @@mathengewaweru6796 Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts. I think the discomfort you feel is good. Like it is a recognition of something being wrong. I think we have a chance to turn things around, especially since the conversation has started.

  • @animewrld6667
    @animewrld6667 День тому +2

    Africans aren't allowed to change and evolve with the changing times Africa is the people not the appearance or the name.Alot has changed Nairobi homes so many tribes bringing new culture and thats how it is now but people still talk Swahili and there tribal language

  • @nyamburamwangi04
    @nyamburamwangi04 5 днів тому +1

    Nimetoka tiktok kuona a part of this video and wow I love the way you expound on the matter.

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  5 днів тому

      @@nyamburamwangi04 aki asante sana

  • @humphreyld5927
    @humphreyld5927 5 днів тому

    Finally, some content I clicked and enjoyed. Keep up the good work miss, you earned yourself a new subscriber

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  5 днів тому +1

      @@humphreyld5927 thanks so much for the support! Much more to come!

    • @humphreyld5927
      @humphreyld5927 5 днів тому +1

      @whoisnashiii new subscriber turned the notification bell on

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  5 днів тому

      @ thank you SO MUCH

  • @martino6205
    @martino6205 3 дні тому +1

    My grandparents were both in the first groups on Africans to get high school education and get professional jobs in the 1940s. They were forced to use European names only. But at independence, decided to change back to their African identity, and prefer grandkids to identify as Africans. Another issue you have missed is the failure of the city to keep up with its social services in the 90s, mostly as a result of external interference by the World Bank etc. That meant services like public transport, clean water, sewer ,garbage collection, health, public housing, schools etc became inaccessible to the new arrivals into the city, which made life worse for those in slums and poorer areas of the city.

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  3 дні тому +1

      I know that Kenya is unsustainable in general like there’s not much the government is doing. But that will be its own video!

  • @charityvaatikilonzo6061
    @charityvaatikilonzo6061 3 дні тому

    As someone who lived their life mostly in the countryside, coming to Nairobi and acclimating to it knowing that when I go back home I’ll feel better and then going to the countryside and seeing it getting swallowed up into the Westernized ideals of Nairobi was heartbreaking.
    This was such a good video essay by the way. I felt like I was hanging out with you.

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  3 дні тому +1

      It is heartbreaking to see the nationwide gentrification. Thanks for watching!

  • @constructiveeconomics6733
    @constructiveeconomics6733 3 дні тому +1

    I am new to your channel and subscribed after watching your entire presentation. I'm here to learn so I will continue to listen and be on the lookout for your future videos.

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  3 дні тому +1

      @@constructiveeconomics6733 thank you so much! I shall be dropping a video each week. Thanks again for watching💗

    • @constructiveeconomics6733
      @constructiveeconomics6733 3 дні тому

      @@whoisnashiii You're welcome, my sister! 😊 By the way, I’m a Nigerian American living in the U.S. My wife is part Native American and part African, and I wanted to share this because I believe we Africans are so beautifully complex. Our unique history-both on the continent and in the diaspora-has shaped us in so many ways, through external forces and our own choices. But I genuinely feel that this journey is bringing us closer together. 🌍✊🏾

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  3 дні тому

      @ yes absolutely! Pan-Africanism is the only way forward. We started together this journey on one continent. It is important to connect. Thanks for the support.

  • @CIRUSFILES
    @CIRUSFILES 4 дні тому +3

    this was immaculate 🗣

  • @theturkanabus3610
    @theturkanabus3610 2 дні тому +1

    I've seen you ask "what is wrong with dirt roads and thatched huts?"
    So let me answer that question:
    You cannot support a 50 million+ population with pre colonial economics. If we revert Mombasa road (and all other roads) to it's state before 1895 & we go back to to the farming, housing & healthcare methods used then, then we will also revert to the 3-5 million people estimated to live in "Kenya" then
    There is certainly plenty that is African that we can revive or maintain (like languages) but unless you wish death on 90% of your people there is lots of "western" stuff we must have

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  2 дні тому

      @@theturkanabus3610 and 50 to 60% of these people are living in abject poverty with 2 dollars to their name everyday. So I don’t see how mass poverty, starvation and high mortality rate is any better…

  • @meughh1406
    @meughh1406 4 дні тому

    So well said!! Eloquent and I learned so so much thank you

  • @lexiQueendom
    @lexiQueendom 4 дні тому

    How did I not see this before...Thank you for this, you are so right. Subscribed

  • @BrianYator
    @BrianYator 4 дні тому +2

    Maybe add that there’s little to no incentive to embrace our afro culture and traditions unless we gentrify it for profit. Nice vid essay!

  • @kiboinderitu8431
    @kiboinderitu8431 4 дні тому +5

    Americanization of Kenyans could have been somewhat tolerable, but the classism, (woooi). Kienyeji should NOT have been an insult.

    • @solidhoneyyyy
      @solidhoneyyyy 4 дні тому +3

      True! I personally hate every aspect of popular Kenyan culture online and in real life though. It's the casual classism, casual sexism... I could go on and on!

  • @tealspracticespace
    @tealspracticespace 4 дні тому

    I’m tapped in !! love the video

  • @sagefushi
    @sagefushi 5 днів тому

    BROOO THIS IDEA HAS BEEN IN MY HEAD AS WELL FOR A MINUTE THIS VIDEO IS PEAK 🌟🌟🌟

  • @fredyngure6265
    @fredyngure6265 4 дні тому +2

    Can you please describe what african culture is ,to me like am 2year old

  • @mikeg3729
    @mikeg3729 3 дні тому

    Hapo sawa. We need more content like this.

  • @theturkanabus3610
    @theturkanabus3610 4 дні тому +2

    I'd love to agree with you 100% but you're idea of what is African about Nairobi seems quite superficial: dress, language etc
    when in fact the Kenya we live in is very much the same as the one our pre colonial forebears lived in: our politics still works exactly the same. Most are simply too ignorant of our past & too shallow in their reading of the present to see this
    Great effort nonetheless ❤

  • @edwardodero2125
    @edwardodero2125 День тому

    As much as i agree with most of the things you say my question remain which is this perfect africanism culture we want to hold onto and still keep up with modern world? we can no longer tend to our farms with jembe, treat our sick body with miti ni dawa just to mention the many african practices we use to follow. I say embrace change but keep who we are and it's exactly what we have done. a Luo still speaks luo same as kuk and all other. we still embrace our heritage even if we are nairobians.

  • @guroswes5791
    @guroswes5791 3 дні тому +1

    This is very true, imagine in 80s as a teenager gene x, we all the TV shows and music on VOK, were all western programs. So we copied all that even on the English accent.

  • @AndrewGarai-c8p
    @AndrewGarai-c8p 4 дні тому +1

    Fantastic video!

  • @emo7696
    @emo7696 3 дні тому +2

    I wondered how and why so many of us have children who can not speak Swahili and there were born and live in Niarobi

    • @Fridayguyyyy
      @Fridayguyyyy 2 дні тому

      Same thing in DRC, I live in Haut-katanga province as a looooot of kids I grew up without speaking swahili I'm soon 20 and still don't speak well. I think we should let the youngers speak it cause now I pay the consequences 😂😬

  • @t.g7607
    @t.g7607 2 дні тому

    OOHH HOW I WISH THIS COULD GO MAINSTREAM

  • @kevinlipps2817
    @kevinlipps2817 День тому

    The individuals who hold power globally appear to advocate for a communistic society that minimizes cultural and racial distinctions. While it is impossible to completely eliminate these differences, such a uniformity would render the populace more manageable and easier to govern, as it would diminish the presence of diverse cultures and heritages.

  • @Arotheadrian
    @Arotheadrian День тому +1

    The same things is happening to London. It is no longer a British city.

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  День тому

      @@Arotheadrian Good!

    • @Arotheadrian
      @Arotheadrian 13 годин тому

      Not good. Knife crime has gone through the roof over the last thirty years and Moslem grooming gangs have assaulted thousands of under age girls of all ethnicities. Too many ethnic minorities in the UK have a medieval attitude towards women. I say this as a Kenyan who has known London since the seventies.

  • @felixonemheghie229
    @felixonemheghie229 5 днів тому +12

    Hello Nash, I'd like to see you begin this way: dress like an African, a Kenyan, and possibly any of the cultural dress codes. I like your theme, though. Cheers.

  • @mahelofrancis2459
    @mahelofrancis2459 3 дні тому

    Thank you my sister for the insightful eye

  • @posttimenbo
    @posttimenbo 2 дні тому

    Finally a lady with the balls to actually say the truth....

  • @dennismunyaka6537
    @dennismunyaka6537 4 дні тому

    This is very infromative and eye opening.

  • @tamaduni
    @tamaduni 2 дні тому

    You have to adopt what works and discard what does not ...

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  2 дні тому

      @@tamaduni exactly, we need some sort of filter or hybrid

  • @alexbimpeh-segu3516
    @alexbimpeh-segu3516 2 дні тому

    Ghana take note to what happened to Kenya, in relation to Nairobi, in how Europeans, Arabians, and Asians will gradually shape your culture without you realising it, unless checked.

  • @mikeantonin7580
    @mikeantonin7580 2 дні тому

    Out of pure curiosity, how exactly are Nairobians supposed to act in your view?

  • @klaw1425
    @klaw1425 3 дні тому

    I must subscribe for my dearest sister in pan Africanism much love and respect for you her majesty Africa princess 👑

  • @marym-w2e
    @marym-w2e 5 днів тому +3

    Out of the 43 tribe which culture would be placed above the other. There always a reason for things. Yes on the surface There's no culture but each tribe keeps theirs.

    • @niknik4260
      @niknik4260 4 дні тому

      The Western countries that we want to ape also have different ethnicities but they still share culture

    • @marym-w2e
      @marym-w2e 4 дні тому +3

      @niknik4260 clearly you haven't been to Europe

  • @jamesokoth6655
    @jamesokoth6655 День тому +1

    Is that your real hair?

  • @ashleyxwamaitha
    @ashleyxwamaitha 4 дні тому +1

    Love this video.

  • @connie7763
    @connie7763 4 дні тому

    I highly recommend Devil on the Cross by Ngũgĩ wa Thiong'o which describes this so well especially on neo colonialism and wanting to be as close to whiteness as possible

  • @Afropimp
    @Afropimp 3 дні тому +2

    youre right in a way but this "westernization" goes beyond all cultures and races ,asian countries like japan and south korea are completely "westernized" ,even russia a white coutry,the father of communism ,with traditional white culture has become "americanized" over the years ,i persnally dont think this is about westernization, but about the fading of traditional practises(culture) as urbanization and technological advancemet occurs because we no longer need those practices ,and we also now know some of those practises are simply insane ,full of myths and miscinconceptions therefore should not be practised.e.g fgm ,traditional gods which were basically trees and mountains ,,not saying the bible god is the true one ,,,,i think people practice "westernization/americanization" not because we dont like our culture but because it involves applying logic in life rather than living a cultural way of life ,it iss scientific therefore True ,not about beliefs

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  3 дні тому

      I know it is worldwide, I just wanted to speak on MY home.

  • @STORYCASTAFRICAMEDIA
    @STORYCASTAFRICAMEDIA 7 годин тому

    I like this content

  • @murnyang8381
    @murnyang8381 3 дні тому

    Do a video on kibera…..I heard on X it’s a luo settlement due to them being already in the motion of migration to settle all of east afrika

  • @fromK.withlove
    @fromK.withlove 4 дні тому

    This is a good topic to think about

  • @VenusFaith-m8l
    @VenusFaith-m8l 4 дні тому

    Loved this❤

  • @Jay-Kay-Buwembo
    @Jay-Kay-Buwembo 3 дні тому

    Africans are still the majority in Nairobi, you can, should & could influence policy in regards to how the country develops.

  • @brayo144
    @brayo144 3 дні тому

    Alot of this is reflected in our politics.
    The new rulers adopted the structure of the old to dominate the rest. The political rulers themselves wanted to be more western and less african. Thats why they didnt bother to promote culture and more on financial success. This is true all over Africa.

  • @sandyobare3641
    @sandyobare3641 5 днів тому +5

    What is African culture today, really? It's worth reflecting on how one's cultural practices are shaped by factors like attitude, preferences, exposure, and even personality. Personally, I enjoy a wide range of music-from rock to vernacular tunes. English is my first language, though I speak my vernacular fairly well. While I can tolerate interacting with upper-class circles when necessary, I find it hard to genuinely connect with them. They just don't feel authentic to me-though perhaps that's no fault of their own.

    • @whoisnashiii
      @whoisnashiii  5 днів тому +3

      @@sandyobare3641 I think we must reconstruct society to create a hybrid where African culture is not lost nor demonised to be part of poverty. A lot of it is intertwined with the unequal wealth distribution in the country. But I shall be making content on that too.

    • @niknik4260
      @niknik4260 4 дні тому

      Cultural practices are mostly shaped by the media and education. African culture exists and is currently being suppressed by the media and our education system

  • @biggie37728
    @biggie37728 4 дні тому +1

    Realest thing I've heard today

  • @rommel8251
    @rommel8251 5 днів тому +4

    Rongai even ✋

  • @EugeneMax-s6s
    @EugeneMax-s6s 9 годин тому

    She needs to tell us what would make it "African" cause what does that even mean....Lots of African art galleries to go to,take a Safari in the city doesnt get more African than that,Maasai markets,African cuisine restaurants all over Nairobi what more "African" does she want

  • @karenmadinda6257
    @karenmadinda6257 3 дні тому +1

    Same applied to Tanzania sadly....

  • @mantality312
    @mantality312 День тому +1

    What is "African culture"? Are you suggesting that anything modern and not archaic and tribal is in juxtaposition to African culture? What an ignorant take. Nairobi is a shining gym of African culture. Perhaps you prefer Sudan or The Congo instead.

  • @fileremoval478
    @fileremoval478 4 дні тому +1

    globalization is everywhere

  • @fridaymaureenodipo1315
    @fridaymaureenodipo1315 3 дні тому

    Should we build huts in nairobi now? We can't avoid these things we were born into it.

  • @mugiirakimathi6299
    @mugiirakimathi6299 5 днів тому

    What is the way forward ?

  • @CIRUSFILES
    @CIRUSFILES 4 дні тому

    I need your reading list !

  • @gefftech
    @gefftech 2 дні тому

    Development is an eventuality...nothing stays the same.Bookclubs and Art are not culture specific. Those are actually some of the constants in all cultures.What you call whiteness is natural course development. Lack of enough of it is what got us colonized in the first place.If we had superior weapons,colonization would have never happened.The world/society is a multi-dimensional behemoth which fools you to believe you have it figured out when you have not even scratched the surface. African culture is not fading away, it is evolving and adapting as it has always done....

  • @regymach1
    @regymach1 3 дні тому

    Watch out for Kingdom culture....it is the next move that will far surpass all other cultures!!

  • @klaw1425
    @klaw1425 3 дні тому

    I always say this, Kenyan are imitating western cultures is a shame and saddens as a pan Africanism