Reassessing the rebellion

I read your interview with Afua Hirsch in the September issue with interest. In answer to a question asking whether any [African] resistance figures deserve more attention, she mentioned meeting a survivor of a Mau Mau detention centre, and being told the story of his bad treatment at the hands of the British.

It is important to remember that large numbers of ordinary black Kenyans – in the region of 2,000 to 2,500 – were killed by the Mau Mau for refusing to betray their British employers. In fact, the Mau Mau rebellion was not universally supported in Kenya, because of their violence and destruction of livelihoods. It must not be automatically assumed that these Mau Mau fighters were heroes fighting oppression: they did significant damage to their own people.

I must also correct a misunderstanding. Even though there is much to criticise the British for in their occupation of Kenya and other African countries, there are some positives, and relations were generally good – even affectionate – between the many tribes and the British. I noticed this especially in Botswana, where I lived for many years. Most of the expat British community I came across in both countries were decent hardworking individuals wanting to do their best for the country.

I do hope that you will include an article on the Mau Mau rebellion in one of your future editions.

Olibeng Greenwood, London