As widespread conflict looms over the Middle East, Kenya has aligned itself with other nations in urging its citizens to depart from Lebanon.
The growing unease in the region has triggered precautionary measures by various countries, with Kenya now taking decisive action to ensure the safety of its nationals.
The already volatile Middle Eastern landscape has been further destabilized following Iran’s pledge to exact revenge on Israel. This vow comes in the wake of the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the prominent leader of the Hamas organization.
Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Ministry Takes Action
In response to the escalating situation, Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Ministry, through its Department of Diaspora Affairs, has issued an urgent advisory to its citizens residing in Lebanon.
The ministry has strongly recommended that Kenyans either vacate the country entirely or relocate to areas deemed safer within Lebanese borders.
Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, the ministry stated,
“We are appealing to those who can move to safer areas within Lebanon and those able to leave the country to do so. For Kenyans with family members in Lebanon, kindly call +254114757002 number provided for ease of safety coordination or visit our offices at the Old Mutual Building, Ground floor along Upper Hill Road.”
Evacuation Procedures and Registration Process
The Kenyan government has established multiple channels for its citizens seeking evacuation. Individuals can register their intent to evacuate by contacting the following numbers: +96590906719, +96171175006, or +254114757002.
Additionally, an online form has been made available by the ministry to facilitate the registration process
You can enter your details here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc6XBpeRdZpzzwWUMt4BfdzVGMykbJV5LgYnlRPk23DiZfgxQ/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0&pli=1
Kenyan Presence in Lebanon: A Growing Community
Kenya has a significant presence in Lebanon, particularly in terms of its skilled labor workforce. The country has been consistently sending workers to Lebanon and other Middle Eastern nations.
A 2022 report by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) highlighted a substantial increase in the Kenyan community in Lebanon during 2021, with 3,233 new workers relocating to the country.
This trend continued into October 2023, when an additional 1,500 Kenyans embarked on new employment opportunities in Lebanon, facilitated by an agreement between the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and various agencies.
The Kenyan Consulate in Beirut reports that the majority of Kenyans seeking employment in Lebanon are females, primarily engaged in domestic work.
However, the workforce also includes a diverse range of skilled professionals such as Food/Dairy Technologists, Veterinary staff, Agricultural officers, Tourist consultants, Computer experts, Technicians, and Hotels and Restaurants staff.
