The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs has issued directives to Kenyans in Lebanon amid increasing Israeli airstrikes in the Asian Country.
In statement dated October 1, Roseline Kathure Njogu Principal Secretary (PS), State Department for Diaspora Affairs said the government prioritizes the evacuation of Kenyans from the country.
However, PS Njogu expressed concerns that majority of the Kenyans have not yet registered for the evacuation plans.
“As per our previous press releases and subsequent communication, the Government of Kenya wishes to confirm that we continue to prioritize the safety of all Kenyan nationals currently residing in Lebanon amidst the escalating situation,” Njogu said.
“We are deeply concerned that a large number of Kenyans in Lebanon have not yet registered for evacuation despite our repeated calls.”
The PS directed all Kenyans in Lebanon to register for evacuation to ensure their safety and appropriate evacuation.
Njogu said the government of Kenya has successfully evacuated two groups of Kenyans from Lebanon.
She explained that the government is committed to continue with the efforts until every Kenyan in need is safely evacuated.
“To ensure the safety and timely evacuation of all our citizens, we urge all Kenyans in Lebanon to immediately register with us. Only registered Kenyans will be eligible for evacuation,” Njogu said.
The PS reiterated that any Kenyan who wishes to be evacuated must ensure that their registration is completed before deadline for registration which is October 12, 2024.
Kenyans can register using the link: https://www.diaspora.go.ke/lebanon.html, or the state department through +96590906719, +96171175006 and +254114757002 for communication and coordination
“The Government of Kenya continues to work diligently with international partners and local authorities to secure safe evacuation routes and ensure the well-being of our diaspora,” she said.
Kenyans in Lebanon Plead for Help
On September 30, clips emerged with Kenyans detailing their growing fears and the increasing danger they face in Lebanon.
They pleaded for help after Israel’s deadly bombardment of Beirut killed over 105 people and left 359 others injured that day.
The Kenyans in Lebanon led by Brenda Wangithi Muthoni from Ndia, Kirinyaga County asked the government to rescue them and bring them back home.
Also Read: Kenyans in Lebanon Send Desperate Plea as Employers Withhold their Passports
Muthoni said they have been on the streets with no shelter and their safety is not guaranteed.
“I came to Lebanon in August and I’m currently working as a caretaker. We are on the street and several people have died while others were injured,” Muthoni said.
Vashem Kirubo, a caregiver in Lebanon, stated that employers have also fled the country leaving some Kenyans stranded.
“Our bosses have left us in their houses, others have gone offline, we need help, and we are displaced,”Kirubo pleaded.
Also Read: Govt Gives Direction on 26,000 Kenyans Stranded in Lebanon
Earlier Communication
The situation in Lebanon has worsened in recent weeks due to growing instability from the bombing.
Kenya earlier issued a warning to Kenyans living in Lebanon, expressing concern about the violence and advising those able to leave the country to do so immediately.
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