151 Kenyans evacuated from South Africa amid xenophobic violence, intimidation

In a statement on Thursday, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, said the evacuation is being carried out in a safe, orderly and timely manner in collaboration with the South African government.

“The government is undertaking a safe, orderly and timely evacuation of Kenyan nationals in distress from South Africa amid xenophobic violence and acts of intimidation,” Mudavadi said.

He added that the Kenyan High Commission in Pretoria is working closely with South African authorities to facilitate the return of Kenyans wishing to come home while ensuring the welfare and security of those remaining in the country.

As of July 2, a total of 240 Kenyans had registered with the High Commission for assistance.

The mission is providing temporary safe havens, including hotel accommodation, food, essential relief supplies, travel documents and specialised support for vulnerable persons, including infants.

So far, 151 Kenyans have been flown back to Nairobi through government-coordinated evacuation flights. Three groups comprising 61, 26 and 17 evacuees arrived on June 30, followed by another 47 on July 1. A further group of 55 Kenyans was expected to arrive later on Thursday.

Mudavadi said he spoke by telephone on July 1 with South Africa's Minister for International Relations and Co-operation, Ronald Lamola, who assured Kenya that the South African government was taking the necessary steps to guarantee the safety of Kenyans and other foreign nationals.

The Prime CS said Kenya was encouraging the South African government to continue supporting the evacuation process while safeguarding Kenyans who remain in the country.

“The majority of the estimated 27,000 Kenyans residing in South Africa continue to make meaningful contributions to the prosperity of both our friendly nations,” Mudavadi said, expressing confidence in the continued protection of Kenyan nationals.

He also urged Kenyans living abroad to respect the laws of their host countries and ensure their immigration status remains valid and up to date.

Mudavadi further thanked the South African government for its continued support, saying Kenya values the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two countries and remains committed to strengthening the partnership for the mutual benefit of their people.