Kenyans Affected by Military Fire in 2021 Receive Compensation From the UK

In Kenya, a protracted quest for justice is now over. After a wildfire caused by a British military drill in 2021 ravaged Laikipia, the UK government has agreed to compensate more than 7,000 inhabitants with £2.9 million, or $4 million.

During joint exercises with Kenyan military, the fire broke out close to Lolldaiga Hills, damaging portions of a protected conservancy and leaving behind explosive debris that caused injuries to nearby residents. Citing environmental harm and health issues, the impacted communities filed a lawsuit.

After a British soldier seemed to take credit in a social media post, the Royal Military Police launched a formal investigation, sparking outrage. Payments have now been issued, according to a lawyer for the victims, who described the reimbursement as a remedy for the “smoke nuisance” that the fire produced.

The British High Commission in Nairobi described the fire as “extremely regrettable” in a statement released on Friday, acknowledging the ire that the delay in resolution had created. The case has rekindled interest in the effects of foreign military training on local people, as the British Army has a permanent presence in Nanyuki.

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