The just concluded Global Entrepreneurship Summit will be remembered across the world for many reasons, some- not so related to entrepreneurship and among them, the truly African way in which US President Barack Obama was welcomed.
Citizen TV's Julie Gichuru was picked to introduce Obama and Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta- the two hosts of the event.
Modernity and African roots were brought to a perfect mix when Julie ululated to welcome Obama “the African way”.
Some would be surprised that such a modern woman would have perfected the art of ululating.
Others would appreciate that the ululation went beyond the introductory purposes- it introduced Kenya and indeed Africa to the world, with the message that while Africa continues to embrace modernization, the continent holds dear positive cultural aspects that define its people.
Bound to spark conversation, the ululation received due attention on social media.
Here are some of the tweets:
Its official, ululation just entered the world's map as a form of greeting. Mad respect to @JulieGichuru #GES2015Kenya
— Lapid Leaders Africa (@LapidLeaders) July 25, 2015
my highlight must've been @JulieGichuru 's ululation. That was exceptional.
— shey kibuchi (@SKibuchi) July 25, 2015
Whoa that was great opening of the #GES2015Kenya @JulieGichuru I'm proud to be Kenyan and an African woman,, The ululation I like
— Miss S (@sande_miss) July 27, 2015
Here is a clip on the introduction:
[video:]
