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The UK High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, on Thursday paid tribute to 15 veterans from Western Kenya who served in the British Army during World War II (1939-1945).
The ceremony, held at Kakamega Sports Club, saw Wigan express the British Government’s gratitude not only to these Kenyan veterans but also to those from across the Commonwealth who fought alongside the UK for global peace.
Wigan expressed pride in representing the UK and recognizing the significant service of these men, ensuring their contributions are remembered. He mentioned that replacing lost medals is part of a broader effort to honor the crucial role played by Kenyan veterans in World War II.
Furthermore, the UK Government, through the Royal Commonwealth initiative, continues to provide welfare grants to support the needs of veterans and their widows, equivalent to the cost of two meals a day. This support has significantly improved the welfare of 829 Askaris and widows. The initiative is facilitated by the British Legion (Kenya) with assistance from the Kenyan Defence Forces Old Comrades Association.
Among the 15 veterans honored were individuals from Kakamega, Vihiga, Kericho, Bungoma, and Nandi counties. This ceremony marked the fourth held in Kenya, following a similar event where His Majesty King Charles III presented medals to four war veterans at the Kariokor Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in Nairobi last November.
Brigadier Joakim Mwamburi, Managing Director of the Defence Forces Comrades Association (DEFOCA), highlighted the significant impact of welfare support from organizations like the Royal Commonwealth Ex Servicemen’s League and British Legion Kenya, which has revitalized the lives of veterans.
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa and Kakamega County Commissioner Michael Mwangi praised the initiative and called for enhanced collaboration between the UK and Western Kenya.
