Use of cloth mannequins shows a dark colonial past

Cloth mannequins at a stall in Roysambu, Nairobi. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

Mannequins sell by association, the same way we pick foreign names to associate ourselves with heroes like musicians and presidents, among others.

With time, we learn to dislike ourselves and think that imported products are better. We extend the liking to not just products but also visits. We start dreaming of visiting foreign countries like the UK, the US, and European Union among others. And take our money there.

When we complain that we are importing too much, it's not just about less manufacturing, but our cultural orientation. We come to believe that what is not indigenous is good. That includes food. Ever seen a queue for ngwaci (sweet potatoes) or Kimanga (Taita traditional meal)? While I do not want to be Donald Trumpish with Kenya first, some national pride would make a difference. West Africans have a vibrant textile industry with fewer mannequins. We could learn from them.

Next time you see mannequins, remember it's a leftover from a bygone age.

This echo from the past is not just felt through our clothes but the entire economy through imports and even our foreign exchange. Have you bought any clothes because of mannequins? Talk to us.