The Role of the Alternative Press in the Developement of Nationalism in Kenya, 1945-1960
Abstract
This study traces the history of the African press in colonial Kenya and how it contributed to the development of nationalism. From its inception at the tum of the 19th century, colonialism set the stage for perpetual conflict between foreign interests and the African struggle to regain their independence. The struggle took many forms including armed resistance, passive resistance and political organizations .
During these developments the African press emerged as one important tool for voicing African interests and raising awareness across the African population. In this way, the press nurtured the nascent nationalism that challenged the colonial government, which eventually led to the country's independence.
The study points out that the African press should be accorded its proper role in Kenya's history. In this regard the study of the press must be done in the wider colonial context and not in isolation of other concurrent actors of the time. The study concludes that the African press played a catalytic role in the development of nationalism in Kenya and was an important tool used by the nationalists in the struggle for independence. Suggested areas for further research include examination of the actual contents of the various African newspapers, rather than relying on what has been reported on them.
Publisher
University of Nairobi, Kenya