David Maillu is a renowned Kenyan literature writer who is known for his tough stance against issues such neo-colonialism, bad governance and social injustice. Known as the “King of African Literature”, he channels his disgruntlememt through his art, which he displays at his home in Mathemboni, Kaiti, in Makueni county. The compound is a site of oppression, adorned with various monuments carrying powerful messages against oppression.
In 2024, when Mailu learnt about the reelection of the current United States President Donald Trump, he began the construction of the massive 15-foot statue in protest. In a satirical move, he named the monument the “President Donald Trump Shithole,” in response to the racial discrimination imposed by Trump against African countries and Black people worldwide.
The concept behind the statue was inspired by Trump’s utterances in January 2018 where he reportedly referred to African nations and Haiti as “shithole countries,” while discussing immigration policy. The controversial remarks triggered international outrage , and Maillu was no exception prompting his symbolic reaction to build the monument.
“I did this to ensure I voice out opposition to any plans which would lead to many Africans shy from seeking jobs, education opportunities in the United States. Trump’s utterances in 2018 sparked anger worldwide and I wondered why would someone of his calibre utter such words,” said Maillu in an interview with a local publication.
Constructed with concrete and metallic rods, the statue bears a striking resemblance to the American president. It features his face complete with his signature red tie, white shirt, navy blue coat, and a head covered with grass stuck on with cemen to mimic his blonde hair. The monument sits at a corner of his compound and is also installed with a toilet, underscoring the satirical critique of Trump’s past remarks.
Maillu stated that before conceptualizing the idea, he had felt relief when Trump lost to Biden in 2020, but it was short-lived as he made a comeback and won again in 2024. This prompted Maillu to use a symbolic means of communicating a message to him as his 4 year-tenure begins.
“If you went to a hotel and order for goat meat, will you be able to tell you took meat from a black or white goat? At the end of the story you will only have meat. This is a symbolism of telling president that wasn’t worthy his status and that was an abuse to black race and people were hurt very badly,” he explained.
While unveiling the statue, the author conducted a ritual, beating drum and pouring of libation to curse any racism moves in America and to remind Trump of the contributions Africans have made to the country.
“America has been built by Africans and nobody should forget this. When I look at this statue I feel good and it reminds me of a man who is getting sworn in today. We are also swearing in him into the world he also abused,” he sarcastically said.
This is not Maillu’s first act of defiance as in 2024, he published his latest book, “Gen Z Push Harder”, following the aftermath of the countrywide anti-government protests. He calls on Africa’s younger generation to stand tall against bad governance.
Throughout his home, he has constructed numerous monuments, some of which carry artistic messages and others opposing neo-colonialism.
