In 1888, the British East Africa Company was chartered, granting it administrative control over the region now known as Kenya. This charter marked a significant step in British imperial expansion in East Africa, leading to increased colonization and exploitation of local resources. The company's activities laid the groundwork for future conflicts and shaped the socio-political landscape of the region.

The chartering of the British East Africa Company in 1888 fueled narratives of African exploration and settlement, inspiring writers like Joseph Conrad in works such as "Heart of Darkness." This period saw literature grappling with themes of colonialism, adventure, and the complexities of cultural encounters.