The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched a historic initiative to commemorate Africa’s critical yet largely unrecognised role in World War I.
The campaign began with the inaugural Inter-Ministerial Meeting, chaired by Principal Secretary Dr. Korir Sing’Oei, aimed at honouring the Kenyan Carrier Corps—part of more than one million African soldiers, porters, and labourers who served during the global conflict.
In his remarks, Dr. Sing’Oei said the initiative seeks to restore the dignity of African contributors to the war, educate the world on the continent’s overlooked role, and promote reconciliation with former colonial powers through honest historical engagement.
In Kenya, World War I did not end on November 11, 1918, as commemorated in Europe. Instead, the conflict dragged on for two more weeks, concluding on November 25, 1918.
Throughout the war, thousands of African men and women bore immense hardship. More than 100,000 porters were conscripted or coerced into service—many dying from disease, exhaustion, and starvation. Their stories, passed down quietly through generations, have remained largely invisible in global remembrance.
“This is a national journey to honour lives long forgotten,” Dr. Sing’Oei said. “We must shine light on their sacrifice and share their truth with the world.”
The Ministry announced the formation of a National Steering Committee to spearhead the commemorations. Key initiatives include the creation of a Tsavo War Tourism Circuit, the launch of annual memorial pilgrimages, and a nationwide storytelling campaign to amplify first-hand accounts of those who served.
The PS also pointed to the potential for cultural preservation and heritage tourism to provide new economic opportunities for local communities through this renewed national memory.
