By Njeri Irungu
A sense of pride and nostalgia filled the air at the Ulinzi Complex Grounds in Lang’ata as retired women in security were celebrated for their service to the nation during this year’s Staara ya Wazee celebrations, held under the theme “Women in Security.”
The annual event, an initiative of Ushiriki Wema founded by Her Excellency Tessie Musalia, seeks to recognize and honor elderly citizens who have dedicated their lives to public service. This year’s edition spotlighted women veterans — the often-unsung pioneers who served in Kenya’s disciplined forces and helped shape the future of women in uniform.
In attendance was Mama Christina Pratt, representing her mother, former First Lady Mama Ngina Kenyatta, who was lauded for her historic role in championing the inclusion of women in the armed forces over five decades ago. It was in 1971, as recounted during the ceremony, that Mama Ngina urged her husband, the late President Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, to open the ranks of the military and police to women — a conversation fondly described as a moment of “pillow talk” that changed the course of Kenya’s security history.
“Women in security have, over the years, spoken passionately about the pivotal role Mama Ngina played in advocating for inclusion and recognition,” said a representative during the event’s opening remarks. “Her vision broke barriers and lit a path for generations of women who serve today.”
Mrs. Musalia, who officiated the celebration, commended the retired women for their courage, sacrifice, and resilience, noting that their contributions have too often gone unrecognized. She urged the government to consider pension and medical benefits for early women recruits who were discharged without compensation after serving in the 1970s.
“You are the pioneers,” she said. “You joined the armed forces when it was unheard of for women to do so. You served with honor, yet many left without benefits. It’s time these sacrifices were acknowledged.”
The event also encouraged the formation of a sacco to support the welfare and financial stability of retired female officers, fostering unity and community engagement among the veterans. Mrs. Musalia emphasized the importance of dignity, activity, and companionship in later life, noting that loneliness remains one of the silent struggles among the elderly.
Activities for the day included sports for the elderly, musical performances, and a guard of honor for the retired servicewomen — a symbolic gesture of gratitude for their service to the nation.
As the sun set over Lang’ata, the day ended with applause, laughter, and reflection — a reminder that the women who once stood on Kenya’s frontlines in uniform continue to stand tall, their legacy etched into the nation’s history.
