United Kingdom (UK) High Commissioner to Kenya Neil Wigan today honoured 15 veterans who served in the British Army during World War II of 1939-1945 from Western Kenya.
Speaking during the award ceremony held at Kakamega Sports Club, Mr 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 to 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, have meant 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 today 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 from Vihiga County.
Others were Laboso Kipkemoi Cheruiyot, Helly Kipngeno Ngetich, Cheruiyot A Ngeny, and Paul Kipkoech Barchok from Kericho County.
Also awarded were William Sitini Wanjala from Bungoma County and Joshua Korigo Barno and Kipsang Arap Bargetuny from Nandi County.
This was the fourth ceremony to take place on Kenyan soil and comes a few months after His Majesty the 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 British Legion Kenya had given the veterans a new lease of life.
DEFOCA is an organization 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.