The role and place of Indian diaspora in the colonial Kenya

Abstract

This article examines the role of Indian diaspora in Kenya under colonial rule of the British Empire. Detailed analysis is conducted on the key prerequisites for migration from British India to East Africa, population dynamics and ethno-religious composition of South Asian communities. The author reviews the impact of migrants from South Asia upon the economy, politics, demographics, and healthcare of Kenyan society. Emphasis is place on examination of the contribution of Indian workers to the construction of railways and establishment of the local law enforcement system. Special attention is given to the relationship of Kenyans of Indian descent with European settlers and local populations. Methodological framework is comprised of the problematic-historical approach, comparative analysis, and a range of instruments offered by micro-history. The Indian diaspora in Kenya originated long before the colonial period; however, it expanded its presence in Africa only under the British rule. Immigrants from India have played an important role in the development of local business, industry and trade, being sort of guides of the achievements of Western civilization among the indigenous people, where the European natives were unable to work due to climatic peculiarities and severe living conditions. Up until Kenya declared independence in 1963, Indians were the so-called intermediaries between the Europeans and Africans, leaving in mind of the latter persistent negative associations of racial discrimination, entrepreneurial cynicism, and unscrupulousness. After the collapse of the colonial system, the Indian diaspora in Kenya has declined as a result of forced migration to metropole and Western countries.