From Colony to Imperialist: Kenya’s Betrayal of Africa

Photo by Ian Macharia on Unsplash

Kenya, a nation with a storied yet troubled past, grapples with the ghosts of colonialism and the chains of neocolonialism. Though strides have been made since 1963, a sinister undercurrent threatens to unravel its progress. This analysis exposes Kenya’s troubling imperialist tendencies, the perils of its subservience to the West, and the gradual erosion of its African soul.

The Specter of Imperialism

At its core, imperialism entails the extension of a nation’s power and influence over other territories, often through political, economic, or military means. While Kenya does not engage in overt territorial expansion, it exhibits several characteristics of an imperialist state within its own borders and in its regional interactions.

1. Economic Domination: Kenya’s economy is characterized by stark inequalities, with a small elite controlling vast resources while the majority of the population struggles with poverty. This economic disparity mirrors the extractive practices of colonial powers, where resources were siphoned off for the benefit of the metropole.
2. Political Hegemony: Despite its democratic framework, Kenya’s political landscape is often dominated by a select few families and interests. This concentration of power stifles dissenting voices and perpetuates a system that favors the privileged, reminiscent of colonial-era hierarchies.
3. Cultural Assimilation: The imposition of Western cultural norms and values through education, media, and consumerism has eroded traditional Kenyan customs and languages. This cultural imperialism undermines the nation’s unique identity and fosters a sense of dependency on external models.

The Perils of Western Subservience

Kenya’s close alignment with Western powers, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom, has raised concerns about its autonomy and its susceptibility to manipulation. This subservience manifests in various ways:

1. Military Cooperation: Kenya’s participation in Western-led military interventions in the region, such as the fight against al-Shabaab in Somalia, has exposed it to security risks and drawn it into conflicts that may not serve its national interests.
2. Economic Dependence: Kenya’s reliance on foreign aid and loans from Western institutions has created a cycle of debt and dependency. This economic vulnerability limits its policy options and makes it susceptible to external pressures.
3. Political Interference: Western powers often exert influence over Kenya’s domestic affairs, particularly in matters of governance and human rights. This interference undermines Kenya’s sovereignty and erodes public trust in its institutions.

The Erosion of African Identity

Amidst these neocolonial dynamics, Kenya’s African identity is being gradually eroded. This erosion is evident in several spheres:

1. Language: The dominance of English in education and official communication marginalizes indigenous languages, hindering cultural transmission and intergenerational dialogue.
2. Education: The education system often prioritizes Western knowledge and perspectives, neglecting African history, philosophy, and cultural traditions. This creates a disconnect between the younger generation and its heritage.
3. Values: The embrace of consumerism and individualism, promoted by Western media and advertising, clashes with traditional African values of community, solidarity, and respect for elders.

The Path Forward

The challenges facing Kenya are complex and multifaceted, but they are not insurmountable. To reclaim its sovereignty and forge a path towards a more equitable and authentically African future, Kenya must take several critical steps:

1. Economic Diversification: Reducing dependence on foreign aid and investing in domestic industries can create jobs, generate revenue, and strengthen the nation’s economic resilience.
2. Political Reform: Strengthening democratic institutions, promoting transparency, and combating corruption can empower citizens and ensure that their voices are heard in the political process.
3. Cultural Revival: Investing in the preservation and promotion of indigenous languages, arts, and cultural traditions can foster a sense of pride and belonging among Kenyans.
4. Regional Cooperation: Building stronger ties with other African nations can create a united front against neocolonialism and promote regional integration on the continent’s own terms.

Kenya’s journey towards decolonization and self-determination is ongoing. By confronting the realities of its neocolonial status, resisting external pressures, and embracing its African identity, Kenya can chart a course towards a future that is truly its own.

Gen Z is playing a big role in changing this narrative and we thank God for their Courage!!!!