It was awarded for minor campaigns that took place in tropical Africa between 1900 and 1956, with a total of forty five clasps issued.

[1] Most medals were granted to British Colonial Auxiliary Forces units, including the King's African Rifles and the West African Frontier Force.

The only campaigns where European personnel were present in any numbers were the various Somaliland campaigns, (including to the Royal Navy), and in Kenya.

[2] The medal was awarded with one of three obverse designs.

[5]The forty five clasps authorised are listed below.