British Supermodel and Magical Kenya International Brand Ambassador Naomi Campbell shared a 2:43 minute tourism promotional video clip on her Instagram on Tuesday evening using a Nigeria song as the soundtrack.
In the clip, she showcases Kenya’s vast coastal beauty and its people to her 10 million plus followers but the song that is heard in the background is In My Maserati which was sang by Nigerian artist Olakira.
The clip titled Naomi Experiences Kenya triggered criticism from Kenyans who were disturbed by the irony.
After she was appointed by the Ministry of Tourism headed by CS Najib Balala, British Supermodel said that she was honoured to be Kenya’s International Ambassador.
She said, “I feel so privileged and honoured to be confirmed as Magical Kenya International Brand Ambassador. Not just because of the obvious benefits that tourism brings to an economy but also I am proud to be able to represent such an important country as Kenya.”
Campbell said Kenya is known for its astounding areas of natural beauty, the beaches and of course the wildlife but there is much more.
“Kenya has a history going back 100 million years and is considered by many to be the cradle of civilisation so I am humbled to be talking about the country,” she added.
In her post, Campbell said that the people are the wealth of any nation and it is no different with Kenya.
“Its people have excelled in the arts, sciences, political thought, and sports just to name a few,” she acknowledged as she praised tourism.
She added, “Tourism is vital on many levels and it is my hope that I can play a small part in helping remind the world about Kenya and on a bigger level wouldn’t it be wonderful if Kenya could help inspire the world after this terrible pandemic we have all been through. Reminding us to be grateful for nature’s beauty and enduring history of our wonderful planet.”
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CLpSpoLpgiJ/?igshid=glvp6a0x0yy1
Nevertheless, her song choice has led to more controversy over her role in promoting tourism in Kenya as a few weeks ago Balala was forced to explain his decision to appoint her the tourism ambassador.
“Naomi Campbell will be Magical Kenya’s International Tourism Ambassador. That doesn’t take away from our domestic market, it only strengthens it. #MagicalKenya,” tweeted Mr Balala.
Kenyans questioned why the position was not given to a prominent Kenyan like Hollywood actress Lupita Nyong’o, while others defended her, saying the debate already justified her role.
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