The Kenyan government has successfully evacuated 63 more citizens from Lebanon, underscoring its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of its nationals abroad. The operation, carried out this week, follows heightened hostilities in the Middle East that have made Lebanon increasingly unsafe.
The evacuees arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi in two groups: 40 individuals on Thursday and 23 on Friday. This latest effort brings the total number of Kenyans repatriated from Lebanon in November to 102, following an earlier evacuation of 39 citizens earlier this month.
Coordinated Government Efforts
The operation was spearheaded by a multi-agency team led by the State Department for Diaspora Affairs in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The government has emphasized its dedication to protecting the rights and safety of Kenyans living abroad.
In a statement, the Department noted, “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.”
Before their return, the evacuees were provided with counseling services by the multi-agency team to ensure their physical and psychological well-being. On arrival at JKIA, they were received by government officials, family members, and friends, marking a warm and emotional reunion.
Rising Conflict in Lebanon
The evacuations come amid rising tensions between Lebanon and Israel, with the ongoing conflict creating a precarious situation for residents and foreign workers alike. Israel’s military operations targeting Hezbollah operatives have resulted in significant casualties, displacing thousands and heightening the need for urgent evacuations.
More than 7,000 Kenyans are currently stranded in Lebanon, and many have registered for evacuation. The Kenyan government has assured its citizens that further operations will continue in the coming days to bring back those who have expressed a willingness to return home.
A Cautionary Advisory
As the conflict intensifies, the government has issued a strong advisory urging Kenyans to reconsider any plans to travel to Lebanon, citing the country’s unstable security situation. This advisory aligns with global warnings from other nations, as Lebanon’s escalating crisis poses a severe risk to foreign nationals.
“The Department, along with key partners, has been working round the clock to ensure the safety of Kenyans in Lebanon and facilitate their safe return home,” the State Department for Diaspora Affairs stated.
Challenges Faced by Kenyans Abroad
Many Kenyans in Lebanon are domestic workers who sought employment opportunities to support their families back home. However, Lebanon’s ongoing economic and political crises, compounded by regional instability, have left them vulnerable.
The government’s recent evacuation efforts highlight the challenges faced by migrant workers during times of conflict. By working closely with organizations like IOM, Kenya is ensuring that its citizens are not abandoned in dire situations.
Commitment to Diaspora Welfare
The government has reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of all Kenyans abroad. Beyond evacuation, the State Department for Diaspora Affairs is exploring long-term measures to support migrant workers and mitigate the risks they face in conflict zones.
This includes raising awareness about the challenges of working in high-risk areas, improving the registration process for Kenyans working abroad, and strengthening diplomatic ties to ensure prompt interventions during crises.
Conclusion
As tensions in Lebanon persist, Kenya’s ongoing evacuation efforts provide a lifeline for stranded citizens. The government’s actions reflect its dedication to safeguarding its people, even in the most challenging circumstances. For those still in Lebanon, hope remains alive as Kenya intensifies its efforts to bring them home.
