What impact did British Colonialism/Imperialism have on Kenya?

The British government ruled over Kenya between 1895 and 1963. The presence in this east African country left an indelible mark. The positives of British rule were the establishments of government and education systems that improved Kenyan lives. The British brought political stability that led to the end to regional warfare and slavery that existed before the British arrived. The system of government established by Britain was one that modeled representative rule. Despite the fact that Africans had very little say in the government, it was a sort of guide for future generations of Kenya.

Another positive was the infrastructure improvements made by the British, particularly in the area of railroad transportation. Britain was able to modernize Kenya in a way that benefited the people after they were granted independence. Today, Kenya is one of the strongest economies in East Africa.

The negatives associated with British rule revolve around the loss of African culture and sovereignty. The British introduced a new language and religion to the Kenyans that still exist in significant ways today in the country. Many British moved to Kenya during the colonial period and over 32,000 are still in Kenya. They tend to exert significant influence over Kenya's political elite. Some of the land policies and the politics of divide and conquer had the effect of causing political instability in Kenya after the British left.