The United Kingdom (UK) High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, has honoured 15 veterans from Western Kenya, who served in the British Army during World War II (1939–1945).
Speaking during the Award Ceremony held at the Kakamega Sports Club Thursday, Wigan said the medals are a symbol of the appreciation of the British Government, not only to the Kenyan veterans but also to those across the Commonwealth who fought with the UK and contributed to peace in the world.
“I’m proud to represent the UK and honour the service of these great men to ensure their contribution is not forgotten,” he said.
The High Commissioner said the medal replacement is part of a wider initiative to honour the vital role played by Kenyan veterans, who took part in World War II and replace lost medals.
In addition to replacing lost medals for the veterans, the UK Government, through the Royal Commonwealth initiative, has continued to support veterans and widows through welfare grants to support their family needs.
The grants, which are equivalent to the cost of two meals a day, make a significant improvement in the welfare of 829 Askaris and widows.
The initiative is administered through the British Legion (Kenya), with significant assistance from the Kenyan Defence Forces, Old Comrades Association.
The 15 veterans awarded were Joseck Odambi Okwako, Wilson Nzosi Litasa, Meshack L. Musire, and Joseph Murana from Kakamega County.
Boaz Akoto Kehodo, Musa Ombazi Lusina, Laban Kehenji Kidaki,and Philemon Mudamba are from Vihiga County.
Others were Laboso Kipkemoi Cheruiyot, Helly Kipng’eno Ngetich, Cheruiyot A N’geny, and Paul Kipkoech Barchok from Kericho County.
Also awarded were William Sitini Wanjala from Bungoma County, Joshua Korigo Barno, and Kipsang Arap Barg’etuny from Nandi County.
This was the fourth ceremony to take place on Kenyan soil and comes a few months after His Majesty, King Charles III, presented medals to four war veterans at the Kariokor Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in Nairobi last November.
Managing Director of the Defence Forces Comrades Association (DEFOCA), Brigadier Joakim Mwamburi, said the welfare support from the Royal Commonwealth, Ex Servicemen’s League, and the British Legion Kenya had given the veterans a new lease of life.
DEFOCA is an organisation which brings together retired officers and those who fought in WWII, to preserve the legacy of their service and provide assistance to veterans.
Kakamega Governor, Fernandes Barasa, and Kakamega County Commissioner, Michael Mwangi, hailed the initiative areas and called for a stronger UK-Western Kenya partnership.
By George Kaiga
