This archive report was first published on 1 August 2019.
On August 1, 2019, the inauguration of the new Kisumu Archbishop, Anyolo, was marked by a gesture of goodwill from Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Deputy President William Ruto, who presented gifts to the Archbishop. However, this act of generosity has been met with mixed reactions from the public, with many questioning the motives behind the gift-giving.
According to Castro Fidel Jagirango, the decision to offer gifts to the Archbishop is a reflection of the cultural identity crisis plaguing Africa. In an article published on August 1, 2019, Jagirango argued that the African continent has abandoned its own culture, language, and traditions in favor of European and Arab influences. He cited the example of African leaders wearing European suits and Texas cowboy hats at international gatherings, such as the UN General Assembly, as a manifestation of this cultural identity crisis.
Jagirango also questioned the Archbishop's decision to accept the gift, suggesting that it validates the culture of corruption and impunity that has plagued the continent. He argued that a leader of high moral standing, such as Archbishop Okoth or Cardinal Otunga, would have rejected the gift outright or sold it and donated the proceeds to a children's home.
As the debate surrounding the gift-giving continues, it remains to be seen how the Archbishop will navigate this complex issue. Will he use the gift as a symbol of his commitment to the values of simplicity and servitude, or will he be seen as complicit in the culture of corruption that has plagued the continent?
