This archive report was first published on 18 June 2020.
Published on June 18, 2020, Yvonne Okwara's candid words have sparked a much-needed conversation about colourism in Kenya.
Colourism, a pervasive issue in many African countries, has been exacerbated in Kenya, where women are increasingly turning to skin-lightening creams and injections to achieve a fairer complexion. Socialites like Vera Sidika and Bridget Achieng have publicly admitted to bleaching their skin, and many women are following suit, seeking to emulate the 'yellow yellow' ideal.
Yvonne Okwara, a respected media personality, has spoken out about the challenges she faces as a dark-skinned woman in the industry. In a powerful statement, she wrote, 'We may all like to focus elsewhere, but charity begins at home. Before you stand up for the BLM movement, before you judge men and women for lightening their skin, telling them to love their skin, why not examine what got us here and how we got here?'
Okwara's personal experience has been marked by exhaustion and frustration. She has seen how light-skinned women are often given preferential treatment in the industry, with some getting away with 'murder' while she is held to a higher standard. Despite these challenges, Okwara remains determined to effect change, urging Kenyans to address colourism and promote a more inclusive culture.
