US First Lady Melania Trump on the Spot over Colonial Pith She Wore While in Kenya

United States First Lady Melania Trump is on the spot over the colonial-like attire she donned during her Safari tour in Kenya on Friday.

When she visited David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi National Park ready to bottle-feed orphaned baby elephants, Mrs Trump wore a white pith hat, riding trousers and boots similar to those worn by European colonial masters.

Colonial masters used pith helmets to cope with warmer climates, which later became a key part of commanding officers’ attire. The attire quickly became a symbol of oppression and colonial rule.

Online users were quick to notice the US First Lady's dressing, with some criticizing her for evoking colonial memories in Africa.

@matt_carotenuto said: "Melania completes the stereotype trifecta--elephants, orphans and even the pith helmet."

@IbraYarre tweeted: "Melania Trump went on a safari in Kenya wearing a pith helmet - a symbol of European colonial rule across Africa." 

"That Pith helmet you have carried was used by colonialists during the dark days. Doesn't sit well with us Africans. Who advised you?" Pauleen Mwalo posed.

@brwnrage noted: "Melania: how do I say "I love colonialism" without ...
Personal Assistant: "say no more"."

@Thoreaus_Horse said: "Melania trump is showing up in these colonial imperialist landowner outfits in Africa and Egypt. Her clothes make me uncomfortable. Isn't it creepy and offensive? Is it just me?"

@WilDonnelly noted:"Wife of the wannabe dictator goes with the colonist look in Africa."

 Kim Yi Dionne tweeted: "Melania Trump wearing a pith helmet on her trip to Africa was more than a silly sartorial choice. It was a reflection of her outdated understanding of Africa."

Reacting to the storm over her attire, Mrs Trump told reporters in Egypt: “I wish people would focus on what I do, not what I wear.”