the 'architecture' of a duka

Part of the legacy that was left behind post independence is the architecture of dukas that is, those kioks that line up streets in shags and a majority of our urban centres in Kenya. Yes, I'm talking about those flat faced shops. In there you'll find, a 'hotel', 'butchery', 'general shop' or 'general kiosk' and a 'posho mill' plus 'bar'. To be a owner of a 'general shop' in shags one must be doing very well or at least, seen to be doing well. They do firm a source of aspiration and inspiration to the youngfolk...

Of course, the dukas play a very impaortant role in ensuring that goods and services, and other provisions (like posho) reach the mwananchi up there in the rural areas. One cannot also forget that these buildings also do get branded with all manner of goods and services, cowboy; rexona; ugali; celtel; safaricom; all for free thus saving the shop owner a few more shillings. This also beautifies the 'town' if you may call it making it look like a rainbow of sorts. With the branding, only churcjes and cattle dips get spared.

However, I have alsways considered that the architecture of the 'general shop' is very colonial; backwards and un inspiring. Whereas I'm not a sociologist, I tend to think that the facade is even depressing and perhaps if we want to 'jivunia kuwa wakenya' then perhaps like we did with a national dress, have a copmpetition to design the national kiosk. That architecture that came from I-don't'know should be done away with, even fir the sake of a new century.