The Impact of Colonial Disease Control Measures on Socio-Economic Activities in Western Kenya, 1895 to 1963
Abstract: This study examined the impact of colonial disease control measures on the socioeconomic activities of the Luo, Gusii, and Luhya communities in Western Kenya between 1895 and 1963. Using a qualitative case study design, data were collected through interviews, focus group discussions, observation, and document analysis in Kitutu Chache South, Lurambi, and Kisumu Central. Findings indicate that colonial disease control measures, including quarantine, livestock movement restrictions, mandatory vaccination, cattle branding, forced resettlement, and vector control interventions, significantly disrupted trade, mobility, livelihoods, cultural practices, and ecological systems. Community resistance emerged where interventions conflicted with indigenous beliefs and economic survival. The study concludes that colonial health policies prioritized administrative control over community participation, resulting in long-term socioeconomic consequences. The findings underscore the importance of culturally responsive public health policy design.
Keywords: Colonial health policy, disease control, socio-economic impact, Western Kenya, indigenous healthcare, colonial medicine, public health history, traditional healer
How to Cite?: Jacob O. Odero, Melvine C. Lilechi, Samuel A. Nyanchoga, "The Impact of Colonial Disease Control Measures on Socio-Economic Activities in Western Kenya, 1895 to 1963", Volume 15 Issue 5, May 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1535-1542, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26520161030, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26520161030