The Kenyan government has set aside Sh100 million (approximately $775,000) to facilitate the possible evacuation of its citizens from Lebanon, in light of escalating tensions in the region. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi announced that the timing of the evacuations will depend on two key factors: the interest expressed by Kenyans wishing to return and the rapidly changing situation on the ground.
With an estimated 26,000 Kenyans living and working in Lebanon, the government is closely monitoring the volatile circumstances. The ongoing crisis stems from Israel’s military operations in southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah militants, which has effectively turned the area into a warzone over the past three weeks. Mudavadi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad, particularly during this period of heightened risk.
Mudavadi assured Kenyans that the government is ready to take necessary measures to ensure the safe evacuation of citizens from affected areas. His announcement came in response to growing frustration from Kenyans stranded in Lebanon, many of whom feel abandoned as other nations have begun evacuating their citizens. The intensifying hostilities have only deepened concerns for their safety.
A significant challenge for Kenyans in Lebanon is that many employers retain their passports, a practice that leaves workers trapped and unable to leave the country. Employers have been reluctant to release these documents, further complicating the evacuation process. Mudavadi highlighted that a comprehensive strategy to assist Kenyans in crisis situations abroad is currently in advanced stages of development. However, he acknowledged that financial constraints have previously hindered timely responses in similar situations.
The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, according to Mudavadi, is working tirelessly to prevent any loss of life and ensure that no willing Kenyan is left behind. Criticism has been directed at Kenyan diplomatic missions for their perceived lack of responsiveness during global crises, with citizens citing delayed assistance.
Addressing these concerns, Mudavadi emphasized that his ministry, in collaboration with the national government, is committed to strengthening support for Kenya’s embassies and missions worldwide. He pointed out that part of the issue lies in citizens disregarding consular advice, such as the government’s standing ban on domestic labor exports to Lebanon. Many of the Kenyans caught up in the current conflict had travelled against official guidance.
Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu noted that some Kenyans have bypassed official channels to enter Lebanon, using airports in neighboring countries to reach the conflict zone. She reiterated that Lebanon is not considered a safe destination for Kenyans, given the lack of formal agreements to safeguard their rights, ensure safe migration, or provide access to consular services.
Conclusion
As the conflict in Lebanon worsens, the Kenyan government remains committed to evacuating its citizens. However, challenges such as passport retention and financial constraints have made the process more difficult. The government is urging citizens in Lebanon to comply with consular advice and take advantage of the state-sponsored evacuation efforts while highlighting the need for greater diplomatic cooperation to ensure the safety of all Kenyans abroad.
