Kenyan Government Struggles to Account for Diaspora Amid Lebanon Evacuation

The ongoing conflict in Lebanon has sparked a critical response from the Kenyan government as it grapples with the challenge of evacuating its citizens from the war-stricken nation.

The government's efforts to repatriate Kenyans have shed light on the lack of clarity surrounding the data on Kenyans residing in Lebanon. During a recent meeting between the Members of the Committee on Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers and Ministry officials, it was revealed that the government's estimates of the Kenyan population in Lebanon vary significantly. Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs Roseline Njogu presented a report indicating that approximately 26,599 Kenyans are currently living and working in the Middle-Eastern country. However, this figure stands in stark contrast to the 7,119 Kenyans who have been officially registered, providing a more accurate account of their location and presence.

The State Department for Diaspora Affairs has been leading the evacuation efforts, with a multi-agency team on the ground to assist with the verification and clearance process. To date, the government has successfully repatriated 167 Kenyans, with an additional 257 expected to be brought back this week. The evacuation process has not been without its obstacles. Initially, the government encountered difficulties in convincing Kenyans to register for evacuation, as many believed the situation would improve. However, as the conflict has escalated and the humanitarian crisis has worsened, more Kenyans have come forward to request repatriation.

The government has had to navigate stringent clearance requirements from Lebanese authorities and limited flight options, further complicating the evacuation efforts. The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) had played a crucial role in facilitating the employment of Kenyans in Lebanon, particularly in the hospitality sector. Many Kenyans had sought better job opportunities in the country, but the ongoing conflict has made it increasingly challenging for them to continue working and living there safely.

The government has assured the public that it is doing everything in its power to bring Kenyans home safely and has urged those in Lebanon to register for evacuation as soon as possible. On November 7, 2024, PS Njogu shared a video of Kenyan citizens happily singing inside a bus after being rescued from the conflict-ridden Lebanon. The group of 43 Kenyans today arrived at the main Kenyan airport in Nairobi. The government has been working on this evacuation plan since October 1, 2024, when they began planning to rescue thousands of Kenyans caught in the crisis.