During the first few years of the 20th century, British authorities were speculating into the feasibility of establishing a Jewish settlement on the Gwas Ngishu plateau in the British East Africa Protectorate. In this regard the Commissioner of British East Africa, the multi-linguist Sir Charles Eliot, produced a memorandum contemplating the potential consequences of establishing, what would have been, an Israel in modern day Kenya and Uganda.
Gwas Ngishu Plateau, FO 2/785, TNA
In his report dated 4th November 1903 Sir Eliot makes what may be construed as a rather interesting remark seen with modern eyes. He states that “It is not likely that non-Jews will much frequent the Jewish settlement, but their rights should be carefully reserved. When circumstances permit the persecuted to become persecutors, they are apt to find the change very enjoyable, and it would not be convenient for Christians if they were compelled to observe the Jewish Sabbath.”
The proposed settlement scheme known as the ‘British Uganda Programme’ was turned down by the World Zionist Organisation in 1905.
Eliot to Lansdowne, 4th November 1903, FO 2/785, TNA
