NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 29 — Finland’s Ambassador to Kenya, Riina-Riikka Heikka, has showered Kenyans with glowing praise, applauding not only their physical attractiveness but also what she described as their inner beauty, confidence, and expressive culture.
Speaking during an interview on the Capital in the Morning show, Ambassador Heikka was asked to rate Kenyan men and women on a global scale of attractiveness, with 10 being the highest score.
When asked to assess Kenyan men, the envoy responded with candour and humour.
“I hope my husband is not listening,” she joked, before adding, “but I would say it’s actually quite high. I would give Kenyan men an eight and a half.”
She explained that her rating was both realistic and comparative, noting that beauty standards vary widely across regions and cultures.
“In the Nordics, in Europe, we’re very different in each country. So, on a global scale, I think 8.5 is fair and deserved,” she said.
When it came to Kenyan women, the ambassador did not hesitate to score them even higher.
“For Kenyan women, I have to go higher — I’m closer to 10,” she said, stressing that her assessment went far beyond outward appearance.
“It’s not just the physical beauty; it’s the inner beauty. It’s a combination. Women here shine; they are thriving, and I love it. You’ve got to love it,” she added.
The Finnish envoy, who has been in Kenya for about six months, also expressed growing admiration for Kenyan fashion, describing it as bold, expressive, and captivating.
“I’m still looking and learning, but I’m extremely interested in Kenyan fashion. I think it’s amazing — it’s bold, even more bold than what I’m used to,” she said.
She added that Kenyan fashion stands out for its confidence and expressive character.
“It’s even better than gold — it’s very expressive. I really hope to explore it more while I’m here,” the ambassador said.
