how to write about africa binyavanga wainaina analysis

In interviews and through social media, Wainaina publicly criticised popular forms of Christianity in Kenya and in Africa more widely. He was one of the most prominent and vocal African critics, not only of homophobia in Africa, but also of the religious forces that incite and fuel it. As a self-declared pan-Africanist and Afropolitan, he was committed to reclaiming African cultures and traditions to free the continent from colonial and neo-colonial social, political, and religious forces. Wainaina embodied a politics of truth, in many aspects of his life. He was confusing and quirky, humorous and sarcastic, a lover of life, of food, and of whisky, frequently also ranting and raving, angry and upset. An incredibly rich archive of ideas and thoughts. He left us a memoir, pieces of creative writing, novels in progress, essays, both written and video-performed. He was a brilliant writer and sharp thinker, creative and unruly. With the constant flood of words in which he energetically talked speculative ideas, supported by wild bodily gestures. With his African print blazers (in the brightest colours one can think of), his spiky hair dyed a different colour every time. He was such an “African character”: colourful, exotic, larger than life.

In his perhaps most famous satirical essay, “ How to write about Africa”, Wainaina suggested that:Īfrican characters should be colourful, exotic, larger than life – but empty inside, with no dialogue, no conflicts or resolutions in their stories, no depth or quirks to confuse the cause. It gives us a glimpse, but doesn’t capture the spirit of his life.

Unfortunately, the last stroke was fatal.īut this short summary of Wainaina’s life from birth to death, doesn’t do him justice. He even signed contracts for two new books and in 2018 announced, on Facebook, that he was in love and getting married to his Nigerian partner in South Africa. Every time he fought hard to recover, remained optimistic. On World Aids Day 2016 he announced on Twitter that he was HIV positive “but happy”. In the midst of virulent social and political homophobia, he published an intimate, autobiographical literary story, “ I am a Homosexual, Mum”. He came out as gay in 2014, at a time when African countries like Uganda and Nigeria were passing new anti-homosexuality bills.

In 2011 he authored his acclaimed debut book, “ One Day I Will Write About This Place”. In 2007 he was awarded the title “Young Global Leader” by the World Economic Forum which he declined because he preferred the freedom as a writer

How to write about africa binyavanga wainaina analysis