Efforts to identify African soldiers and porters who fought and died during World War I are gaining momentum, with significant strides made in the East African campaign. Speaking at the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in Taveta during the 8th commemoration of World War I heroes, Deputy Commander of the Kenya Navy, Brigadier John Kiswaa, underscored the importance of recognizing these forgotten heroes.
Brigadier Kiswaa acknowledged the sacrifices of African soldiers and porters, many of whom remain unidentified. “They paid the ultimate price, but not in vain. The peace we enjoy today is because of them,” he said. So far, 12 names of African soldiers have been identified as part of ongoing efforts to honor their contributions.
A Call for Public Awareness
The two-day event, which included ceremonies in Voi, Maktau, and Taveta, drew residents and representatives from various Commonwealth nations. The commemoration highlighted the sacrifices of soldiers who fought in the East African theatre, many of whom served in a cause they barely understood.
Historian and retired hotelier Willie Mwadilo stressed the need for greater public awareness about the region’s historical significance. He urged local and national authorities to promote Taita Taveta County’s rich World War I heritage, including its battlefields and museums, as a means of boosting tourism and educating future generations.
“Taita Taveta has authentic war sites, such as the Taita Hills museum and battlefields around Voi and Taveta. These sites need enhancement and promotion to attract visitors and benefit the local community,” said Mwadilo.
He also highlighted the overlooked contributions of the Kasigau region, which bore the brunt of the war. “Kasigau’s story needs to be told. The government should invest in creating attractions that honor its role during the war,” he added.
Preserving Historical Sites
Donald Mwakio, curator of the World War I Museum at Taita Hills Resort and Spa, echoed the call for better marketing of the region’s historical sites. He pointed to declining tourism and a lack of local awareness as barriers to preserving the legacy of the war.
“Our sites, such as Mile 27 and Fort Mashotti, have incredible historical value but are underappreciated. We need collective efforts to maintain and promote them,” Mwakio said.
Promoting Education and Involvement
Local resident Joki Mohoho, who traveled from Nairobi for the event, called for greater emphasis on Kenya’s history in education. “We know so much about global events like the French Revolution but very little about our own past. This needs to change,” she said, urging Kenyans to actively participate in preserving their history.
Commitment to Legacy
In his closing remarks, Brigadier Kiswaa reaffirmed the Kenya Defence Forces’ commitment to identifying and honoring African soldiers who fought in World War I. “We will continue our efforts to ensure that these heroes are remembered, and their contributions preserved for future generations,” he said.
The event underscored the need for local involvement, government support, and increased awareness to ensure Kenya’s World War I history remains an integral part of the nation’s heritage.
