Why Elsa Majimbo Urges Dark-Skinned Kenyan Women to Leave the Country

Kenyan-born US-based content creator Elsa Majimbo has once again sparked debate online with a recent post urging dark-skinned women in Kenya to emigrate if possible.

In a message shared on her X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, Majimbo stated, "If you're a dark skin woman in Kenya get out if you can. They will make you mediocre by force."

This direct advice to a specific demographic in her home country quickly drew attention, aligning with a pattern of controversial remarks she has made regarding her African origins and experiences.

Majimbo, who rose to international prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic with her distinctive comedic videos, has previously ignited public discussion with her outspoken views on various aspects of African culture and her personal relationship with Kenya.

A notable point of contention has been her stance on the "black tax," the cultural practice of financially supporting an extended family. She has publicly expressed disdain for this tradition, famously stating her absolute hate for it and criticizing relatives who expect financial assistance, at one point calling some "lazy" for their expectations.

"I saw my dad doing it with his brothers, sisters, his grandparents and parents; like everyone in the family as long as you have a job they expect you to share that money accordingly and that is something I will not be participating in," she once said in a viral video last year.

In a particularly pointed comment directed at a specific extended family member, she said: "She used to ask my dad for money and she texted me, she asks me for money. You've been asking my dad for money way before I was born. I was born, I was raised, I grew up now you are asking me for money. I'm not feeding your habit. You are too lazy to be alive; I'll let you starve."

These comments drew significant backlash, with many critics finding her delivery harsh and dismissive of the systemic challenges faced by many Africans.

Furthermore, Majimbo has been vocal about her preference for living outside Kenya. She openly stated that she would rather reside in South Africa than Nairobi, attributing this sentiment to persistent bullying and what she perceived as mistreatment by Kenyans. She has also touched on the issue of colorism within Kenya, suggesting that light-skinned individuals often receive preferential treatment.

Despite a public reward offer for anyone who could produce a video of her explicitly saying "I hate Kenya," she has consistently expressed a disinclination to return to her home country and has described her experiences there negatively.

Her X username, which prominently features the South African flag, has also been a point of discussion among her followers.