100 Years Anniversary of WW1 in Africa
In 2014, most of Europe, the UK, North America and the majority of the former British colonies and territories will be commemorating the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War. These commemorations will be times of reflection, of memory and certainly not of celebration. Much has happened in Africa since 1914 but not many people realise that there was an active and very real war fought during that period. If the Burma campaign of World War 2 was fought by the forgotten army, the African campaign of World War 1 was the forgotten war.
Whereas the carnage in Europe dominated and obliterated all other news coverage, the African campaign (campaigns) was notable for many reasons:
- The campaign in East Africa was the longest campaign of the war (5 August 1914 – 25 November 1918)
- The first shot fired in anger by a British combatant in WW1 was by RSM Grunshi (Gold Coast Regiment) in Cameroon
- The only naval vessel from WW1 still in active service today is the MV Liema (formerly the Graf von Goetzen) plying her trade as a peaceful passenger/cargo steamer on Lake Tanganyika
- The German general von Lettow-Vorbeck was the only undefeated German general of the war
- The same general was the only German commander to occupy British territory during the war; Taveta in British East Africa
- It was the first war in which organised native troops (African) on either side fought with white men and against them
- The highest casualty rate of the whole conflict due to illness and starvation rather than wounds in battle: 75%
- The longest naval battle of the war was against the German light cruiser Königsberg in the Rufiji Delta
Due to its scope and range, the majority of interest in the African campaign is focused on East Africa. Sensing an interesting and alternative tourist experience, the Sarova Taita Hills Lodge and its dynamic manager Willy Mwadilo have recently started offering battlefield tours; similar to the tours undertaken in northern France and in Zululand. In the Taita Taveta area, a significant amount of shell casings and other battlefield remnants have been found in the trenches and along the encampments.
One of the most curious stories of the war has its origin in this area: that of a German lady sniper (out to avenge her dead husband) hidden in a hollowed-out Baobab tree, which then became a target for the British and survived as the most shot at tree during the whole war and still has the bullet holes to show 100 years later.
The Kenyans and Tanzanians are the keenest to promote this battlefield tourism. Not only for the interest it will generate and money which it will earn but also as a chance to tell the story from an African perspective; of the tens of thousands of indigenous tribesmen who fought on both sides but who have no known grave and are not commemorated in well-kept cemeteries.
This is part of our universal duty of memory and it is fitting that it occurs on this great anniversary.
100 Years Anniversary of WW1 in Africa
Travel To Africa Now
Map of Lodges in and around Africa
Lodges And Camps In Africa
Grande Roche Hotel
The Grande Roche Hotel is a standout destination for travellers seeking luxury in the picturesque town of Paarl. Set in the Cape Winelands, this renowned hotel offers stunning views, world-class accommodations, and award-winning cuisine. From its prime location to its impeccable attention to detail, the Grande Roche is a true gem among vineyard hotels in the Western Cape, promising guests an unforgettable stay filled with indulgence and charm.
andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge
andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge, with ten tented suites on the banks of the Grumeti River, offers seasonal sightings of the Great Wildebeest Migration, including river crossings. Located in an area of the Serengeti famed for its high densities of cheetahs, numerous prides of lions and solitary leopards.
Serian Camp
Alex Walker's Serian Camp, a small and private safari camp option found deep in the heart of the famed Mara North Conservancy. Serian Camp, located within a forested area on the famous Mara River banks, has only five tented suites available, ensuring an intimate safari experience.
Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel
Nestled in a private game reserve, the Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel offers an exquisite retreat near the breathtaking Victoria Falls. With elegant design and exceptional service, this boutique hotel combines luxury and comfort, making it ideal for a tranquil escape. Guests can indulge in world-class dining at our elegant restaurants, savoring exquisite dishes crafted by renowned chefs. They can unwind in the lavish spa, where a range of rejuvenating treatments awaits to soothe body and mind.
Welgelegen House
Located near the heart of Cape Town, Welgelegen Boutique Hotel offers a peaceful escape with a perfect mix of luxury and convenience. Set in two restored Victorian houses, it features seven elegant suites designed for comfort and style. At Welgelegen House's centre is a picturesque cobbled courtyard with an inviting plunge pool. Charming balconies decorated with fragrant roses and jasmine complete the dreamy, tranquil, and luxurious setting.
Sitatunga Private Island Camp
Located in Botswana's Okavango Delta, Sitatunga Private Island Camp blends luxury, sustainability, and cultural heritage. This Relais & Châteaux retreat offers an immersive experience that connects guests with nature and celebrates African traditions. Surrounded by tranquil waterways and vibrant wildlife, Sitatunga invites travellers to indulge in unparalleled comfort while embarking on adventures that celebrate the extraordinary environment it calls home.
The Victorian Manor
The Victorian Manor, nestled in the iconic Victoria Falls region of Zimbabwe, offers charm and luxurious comfort. This boutique accommodation blends classic elegance with modern amenities, making it the perfect base for exploring one of Africa's most breathtaking destinations. The Manor's tranquil atmosphere and attentive service will captivate you from the moment you arrive. With beautifully appointed rooms, meticulously landscaped gardens, and a warm, inviting ambience, The Victorian Manor is the ideal retreat after a day of exploring Victoria Falls.
Mara Porini Camp
The Mara Porini Camp has only 6 tented suites sited in the shade of Yellow-barked Acacia trees along the banks of the Laetoli, a permanent spring, the tents are spacious and each has an en-suite bathroom with flush toilet and safari shower. An exceptional Masai Mara tented camp awaits a superb option for nature lovers.