Kenya gears up for major Lebanon evacuation
Kenyan is prepared to evacuate its citizens from Lebanon amid worsening security conditions in the Middle East. Currently, there are 26,599 Kenyans living and working in Lebanon who may request evacuation, Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi has said. However, Mr Mudavadi noted that the process will be strictly voluntary, with no individual being compelled to leave against their will.
“An Inter-Ministerial Committee led by the State Department of Foreign Affairs is working round the clock to ensure the safety of 26,599 Kenyans in Lebanon. The Committee is liasing with Kenya’s mission in Kuwait, which is accredited in Lebanon, and other partners to execute an evacuation plan,” the Prime CS said in a statement.
The government has also provided contact details and a link for Kenyans to apply for assistance or obtain information on securing safe passage.
Lebanon is currently experiencing heightened instability due to military and political tensions, particularly involving Hezbollah and Israel. Recent rocket attacks by Hezbollah and subsequent Israeli strikes have increased fears of a broader conflict. These tensions, combined with political unrest and international concerns, have led many countries to issue travel warnings for Lebanon.
Mr Mudavadi also reiterated the government’s position on labor migration to Lebanon, stating that a ban has been in place since September 2023. He urged Kenyans to avoid traveling to Lebanon or to delay any planned travel until the situation improves.
“The government reiterates that a ban on labour migration to Lebanon has been in place since September 2023 and urges Kenyans to refrain from travelling to Lebanon or defer any intended travel until the situation normalises,” the Prime CS further stated.
Read also: June diaspora remittances fall to Sh48Bn, lowest in half a year
At the same time, Kenya is advancing its international labor initiatives by sending 350 seasonal workers to the UK under the Mkulima Majuu programme. This program, aimed at addressing domestic unemployment and providing opportunities abroad, has been well-received. The workers, selected through the Youth Enterprise Development Fund, are set to begin their six-month stint in the UK this August, coinciding with the critical harvest season.
During a send-off ceremony at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on August 9, PS for the State Department of Diaspora Affairs Roseline Njogu expressed satisfaction with the progress of the Mkulima Majuu programme.
“This initiative has transformed lives since its inception last year. From a humble beginning with three TVET institutions, we now have 13 institutions on board, and over 1,500 youths have benefitted,” Njogu stated.
She highlighted its expansion from three to 13 TVET institutions and the benefits received by over 1,500 youths. Ms Njogu also mentioned plans to explore opportunities in other markets, including Canada and Australia.
