What is askari meaning?

Askari is a Swahili term that means "soldier" or "watchman." The word has its origins in Arabic, where it literally means "one who guards." In the context of African history, the term is most commonly associated with African soldiers who served in various colonial armies, including the British, French, and German forces. During colonial times, askari were typically recruited from local African populations and were used as a means of maintaining control over the colonies. Today, the term is still used in many parts of Africa to refer to soldiers or security personnel.