Kenya Honours Trailblazing Women Who Opened Doors in Security Forces

Reporting by James Mutua 

Kenya’s trailblazing women in uniform were celebrated on Thursday at the “Staara ya Wazee” sporting event, where leaders and veterans alike paid tribute to their courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy in shaping the country’s security forces.

The ceremony, organized by the 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 1970's paved the way for thousands of women now serving across Kenya’s security institutions.

Under the theme “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.

Representing former First Lady Mama Ngina Kenyatta, Kristina Pratt 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.”

But 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.

The event also looked to the future, encouraging women veterans to organize for economic empowerment through SACCO's 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.”

Closing the ceremony, event convener Tessie Musalia, spouse of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, commended the veterans’ resilience.

“Because of your service, generations of Kenyan women have found their place in uniform,” she said. “Your courage broke barriers and continues to light the path forward.”


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