Govt launches plan to honour Kenyan Carrier Corps
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched preparations for a landmark initiative to commemorate Africa’s pivotal role in World War I.
In a statement on May 15, 2025, Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei confirmed the move, which will be spearheaded by the State Department of Foreign Affairs following an inaugural inter-ministerial meeting.
“This marks the beginning of a national journey to honour the Kenyan Carrier Corps, who were part of over one million African porters, soldiers, and labourers whose sacrifice helped shape the course of global history,” reads the statement in part.
Further, the department says in Kenya, World War 1 did not end on November 11, 1918, as has been recorded and commemorated in Europe as Armistice Day.
The government says the war continued unabated for a further 14 days before finally ending on November 25, 1918.
“During the four years of the war, African men and women suffered the brunt of what was a proxy war fought on African territory. Over 100,000 porters were recruited, conscripted, or coerced into service; they bore unimaginable burdens; they died from sickness and fatigue; communities were plundered as starvation devastated the country,” Sing’oei stated.
PS Sing’Oei
Sing’Oei stated their painful memories were told silently from ridge to ridge, across generations, but their efforts, their valour, and their sacrifice remain hidden in the past, untold and unrecognised, in the shadows of global remembrance.
Further, he emphasised the importance of restoring the dignity of African soldiers and porters, educating the world on Africa’s true contribution to global events, and fostering reconciliation with former colonial powers through shared historical truths.
He also underscored the potential for heritage tourism and cultural preservation to unlock economic opportunities for Kenyan communities.
A National Steering Committee will guide the commemoration, including the development of the Tsavo War Tourism Circuit, the launch of annual commemorative pilgrimages, and a nationwide storytelling campaign to recover and amplify the lived experiences of those who served.
This comes after the State Department for Foreign Affairs announced on May 14, 2025, that Kenya’s government agencies have assured the Middle East Diplomatic Corps of their commitment to strengthening collaboration and partnerships in the tourism sector.
