For Britain, the First World War started 100 years ago today. Its a fitting moment to recall and remember the many soldiers, volunteers and civilians from Africa who fought for Britain. Its estimated that in total over 55,000 men fought in France, with a further 420,000 in auxiliary roles in Europe and involved in the African campaigns.
The men came from Nigeria, Gambia, Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), South Africa, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Nyasaland (now Malawi), Kenya and the Gold Coast (now Ghana). 3,000 men also served with the Royal Flying Corp.
Over 10,000 were killed on the Western Front, including 6,600 from the South African Brigade. In the campaigns that were fought in Africa, many more died. Its also estimated that over 350,000 civilians died as a consequence of the warfare.
166 awards were made to African soldiers for gallantry.
