NANDI HILLS: Nandi legendary leader Koitalel Samoei, who was killed during the resistance against British conquest of Nandi territory, was commemorated on Saturday in a ceremony that marked 119 years since his death on October 19, 1905. The event, attended by Zoe Wildig, a representative from the British High Commission to Kenya, was a significant occasion for Koitalel’s descendants and the entire Nandi County.
According to Kenya News Agency, the ceremony took place at the Koitalel Samoei Museum in Nandi Hills Town, where Wildig laid a wreath in the mausoleum. Wildig emphasized the importance of institutions like universities and museums in preserving history and praised the founders of the Koitalel Museum for their efforts. She also highlighted ongoing collaborations between the British government and Nandi County on various projects, such as equipping the Eliud Kipchoge Library and environmental initiatives.
Wildig stated, “As a generation that emerged out of the incidences of 1905, this gives us an oppor
tunity to learn the history that Kenya and the UK have shared over the decades. None of us can change the past, but by addressing our history with honesty and openness, we can perhaps demonstrate the strength of our friendship today.” She further pledged to relay the community’s messages and grievances to the British government to foster a productive relationship with the Kenyan government and the Nandi community.
Nandi Deputy Governor Dr. Yulitta Mitei, who accompanied the UK representative, affirmed the county government’s commitment to supporting Koitalel Samoei’s family. She acknowledged the significance of the British High Commission’s homage to the family, stating, “This is the first time we are having this opportunity of the British government to talk one-on-one with the family of Koitalel. We don’t take it for granted. Today we have come to spur hope to this generation. Your presence today is very significant to our people here.”
The commemoration also served as a platform for residents, led by Edwi
n Tallam, to call upon the British government to support the establishment of Koitalel University Main Campus. Tallam expressed hope that the British government would play a role in founding the university, which aims to honor the Nandi hero and strengthen the relationship between the two governments.
Koitalel, celebrated as a national hero, was the last-born son of Kimnyole Arap Turgat, a prophet of the Nandi community. Known for his prophetic abilities, Koitalel was murdered by British Colonial Forces Commander Colonel Meinertzhagen during a peace truce meeting after leading a rebellion against the colonial invasion of Nandi land.
