The Kenyan government assured the public that more than 500,000 Kenyan nationals living and working in the Middle East remain safe as tensions continue to escalate in the region.
Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said the government, through the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining constant communication with Kenyan diplomatic missions across the region.
It is not however clear how Kenya will guarantee the safety of Kenyans in the region.
Mudavadi said that seven days into the conflict, no casualties or injuries involving Kenyan nationals had been reported.
He noted that most Kenyans in the region were continuing with their daily activities, including work and study, either physically or remotely depending on the prevailing security situation.
The government has advised Kenyans wishing to leave the region to make arrangements through available commercial airlines or licensed travel agents where it is safe and feasible to do so.
Mudavadi also welcomed efforts by Kenya Airways to repatriate Kenyans stranded in the region after the national carrier secured safe air corridors with relevant authorities.
“The Government is pleased that our national carrier has begun to take advantage of the negotiated safe corridors to facilitate the return of Kenyans who may wish to come back home,” he said.
The government further acknowledged the impact of the conflict on Kenyan exporters, particularly those dealing in perishable goods destined for Middle Eastern markets.
The Ministry said it is working with airlines to facilitate cargo flights and obtain special permits to ensure exports continue.
Kenya currently has seven diplomatic missions and two consulates-general in the Middle East, which have activated emergency and contingency response mechanisms, including evacuation plans in case the security situation worsens.
Kenyans in the affected countries have been urged to register with their respective embassies and consulates and to remain vigilant while following guidance issued by host governments.
The State Department for Diaspora Affairs has also activated a 24-hour diaspora centre to support Kenyans abroad through emergency helplines and WhatsApp.
On the diplomatic front, Kenya expressed concern over the expansion of the conflict and attacks targeting maritime, energy and other critical infrastructure in the region. The government called on all parties involved to exercise restraint and return to diplomatic negotiations.
Mudavadi said Kenya remains committed to peaceful resolution of disputes and supports ongoing efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire and reducing hostilities.
The government said it will continue to monitor developments closely and take necessary measures to safeguard Kenyan nationals and national interests.
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