The Kenyan government has evacuated another group of 39 citizens from Lebanon, as the Middle Eastern nation faces intensified bombardment from Israel. The State Department for Diaspora Affairs confirmed the successful operation on Saturday, reiterating its commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of Kenyans abroad.
The evacuees were seen off at Beirut’s Rafic Hariri International Airport by a multi-agency team led by Margaret Wamoto, tasked with coordinating the rescue mission. Upon their arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, the group was received by government officials, including representatives from the Diaspora Affairs department, alongside family and friends.
Comprehensive Support for Evacuees
Before departing Lebanon, the 39 Kenyans underwent counseling provided by the multi-agency team, a measure aimed at addressing the emotional toll of the conflict and ensuring their readiness to reintegrate into their home environment.
The government emphasized the importance of these interventions in a statement:
“The government of Kenya, through collaboration with state and non-state actors, remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of its citizens abroad. This includes not only facilitating evacuations but also providing necessary support to those in need.”
The latest evacuation follows a similar operation earlier this month, during which 55 Kenyans were airlifted from Lebanon. The State Department confirmed that evacuations would continue in batches, prioritizing those who have expressed willingness to return home.
Escalating Hostilities in Lebanon
The evacuation comes against a backdrop of mounting hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah operatives in Lebanon. The conflict, characterized by ground and air operations, has led to widespread destruction, thousands of deaths, and the displacement of scores of civilians. The volatile situation has left many foreign nationals stranded and in urgent need of repatriation.
Kenyans in Lebanon have been particularly vulnerable, with the government acting swiftly to ensure their safety. While exact figures of those still stranded remain undisclosed, the ongoing evacuation effort highlights Kenya’s proactive approach to safeguarding its diaspora community.
Kenya’s Commitment to Diaspora Welfare
The evacuation initiative underscores Kenya’s broader commitment to the welfare of its citizens abroad. The State Department for Diaspora Affairs has consistently emphasized the government’s resolve to protect the rights of Kenyans living and working in foreign countries.
“Protecting our citizens abroad remains a top priority,” the statement added. “This extends beyond immediate evacuations to include long-term measures aimed at ensuring their safety and dignity.”
The government has worked in collaboration with international partners, humanitarian agencies, and local stakeholders in Lebanon to facilitate the evacuation process. These partnerships have been instrumental in ensuring the safe transit of evacuees amid a rapidly evolving conflict.
More Evacuations Expected
As the situation in Lebanon continues to deteriorate, the government has assured Kenyans that efforts to repatriate those willing to return will persist. This includes plans to coordinate additional evacuation flights in the coming days.
Family members of those still stranded have expressed gratitude for the government’s efforts, urging continued support for their loved ones.
A Beacon of Hope
For the 39 Kenyans who landed safely in Nairobi, the evacuation marks the end of a harrowing chapter and the beginning of a new journey. Many expressed relief at being reunited with their families, thanking the government for its swift and decisive action.
As the conflict in Lebanon rages on, Kenya’s proactive measures serve as a beacon of hope, ensuring that its citizens are not left behind in times of crisis. The government’s steadfast commitment to diaspora welfare demonstrates its dedication to protecting its people, no matter where they are in the world.
