From Barrier to Breakthrough: Kenya Recognizes Women Who Paved Way in Security Forces.
Kristine Kenyatta – Pratt receives an award for First Lady Mama Ngina Kenyatta from retired women in security purity Gathongo (left) and Margaret Muthoni for lobbying for the inclusion of women in the security through the founding President Mzee Nzomo Kenyatta during “Stara ya wazee” event.
NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 31 – Kenya’s pioneering women in uniform were celebrated on Thursday at the “Staara ya Wazee” sporting event an occasion where prominent leaders and honored veterans gathered to pay heartfelt tribute to their historic bravery, indelible sacrifices and transformative role in building the nation’s security forces.
The event organized by the Tessie Musalia’s Ushiriki Wema Initiative at the Ulinzi Complex in Lang’ata, spotlighted the nation’s first generation of female soldiers and police officers, whose service in the early 1970s paved the way for thousands of women now serving across Kenya’s security institutions.
Themed  “Women in Security,” the event honoured these pioneers while calling for stronger welfare support and the passage of the Older Persons Bill to safeguard the rights and dignity of retired servicewomen.
Kristina Pratt, representing former First Lady Mama Ngina Kenyatta recalled how a private conversation more than five decades ago opened the door for women’s enlistment into the army and police in 1971. “You are the pioneers,” she told the assembled veterans and you should be looked after very well.”
Beyond celebration, the gathering carried an urgent message many of the first recruits then young, unmarried women were discharged after only three years and remain without pension or medical benefits.
“They have no pension and no medical,” Pratt said firmly this function today is to remind the authorities that these issues must be addressed.”.
Major General Fatuma Ahmed, one of Kenya’s highest-ranking female officers, praised Ushiriki Wema for strengthening bonds among women in service, noting that their mission to inspire continues beyond retirement. “Our service may have ended, but our mission to build and uplift remains alive,” she said.
Former Deputy Inspector General Grace Kahindi reflected on the determination it took to succeed in a male-dominated environment.
“We have moved this nation forward, and history will remember the women who first wore the uniform,” she declared to applause.
Additionally, the event also looked to the future encouraging women veterans to organize for economic empowerment through SACCOs and to stay engaged in their communities. “Even in retirement, you still have strength, skills, and the spirit to work,” Pratt advised.
“With support, you can build sustainable livelihoods.”
Convener Tessie Musalia, spouse of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, while closing the ceremony commended the veterans’ resilience.
“Because of your service, generations of Kenyan women have found their place in uniform, Your courage broke barriers and continues to light the path forward.” She noted.
