Editor, ALLOW ME to react to your article, “The changing faces of women’s hair” (Society Magazine, August 8). I find it offensive that the authors can refer to the hair of some Africans as “crude” (see the sentence: “also known as a straightening comb, it is a metal comb that is used to straighten moderate or crude hair”). This kind of offence, which borders racism, is a legacy of colonialism and should not be reproduced, especially by journalists in Africa. I am a “muzungu” (white) as you say in Rwanda but find African hair very beautiful. Dreadlocks, Afros, natural short all look great and I wish I could have these hairstyles too. But I do not like to see straightened or “relaxed” hair – it looks like the most UNrelaxed style one can have. People should embrace natural African beauty. Be natural, be beautiful, and be proud! Also as a man, some advice to the ladies: men like to feel natural, soft, not treated or straightened hair full or products and definitely not wigs. Short natural hair is the best way to bring out a beautiful face and smile. Alex, Rwanda *************************** I DON’T get this line: “When it comes to braiding, Jackie Ingabire advises women to braid twice a year if they have to as that will give their hair some time to breathe”. Do the braids allow the hair to breathe or should girls braid only twice a year to allow hair time to breathe? Ange, Rwanda
