First Group of Kenyans Fleeing South Africa Arrives Home Amid Xenophobic Attacks

Kenya has started repatriating its citizens from South Africa after anti-migrant violence forced many to flee their homes, lose their jobs and abandon their businesses. 

The first group has already arrived in Nairobi, while more evacuees are expected in the coming days. The evacuation is being coordinated by the State Department for Diaspora Affairs after weeks of unrest in several South African provinces where foreign nationals have faced attacks on their homes and businesses. The operation follows growing reports of violence, intimidation and economic losses affecting migrants.

Kenyans returning through Jomo Kenyatta International Airport described difficult experiences during the unrest. Many said their businesses were looted, they lost their jobs, and local residents demanded that foreigners leave the country. 

Some said they had been forced from their homes, while others witnessed attacks on fellow African migrants, including citizens of Malawi and other neighbouring countries. One returnee said the situation had become increasingly dangerous, with people losing their livelihoods and facing violence because they were foreigners.

Among those evacuated was Ruth Wambui, who had lived in South Africa for more than ten years working in the beauty industry. She said groups of people entered homes occupied by foreign families and forced them to leave. She also described the destruction of businesses built by migrants over many years, reflecting the extent of the violence reported during the protests.

The Kenyan government has activated emergency repatriation measures in response to the crisis. Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs Roseline Njogu said the first group of 26 Kenyans had returned safely, while another 63 were expected to arrive within days. 

More than 200 Kenyan nationals have requested assistance, and about 100 are staying at the Kenyan High Commission in Pretoria while arrangements are made for their return. Njogu thanked High Commission staff and the multi-agency evacuation team for their efforts and said the government would continue the operation until all Kenyans who wish to return have been brought home safely.

The evacuation highlights the challenges facing African migrants in South Africa, where economic pressures and social tensions have repeatedly contributed to hostility towards foreign nationals. The situation has also underlined the importance of consular support and emergency response measures to assist citizens overseas. It has renewed focus on regional cooperation and the protection of migrants across Africa.

As the evacuation continues, Kenyan authorities are advising citizens who remain in South Africa to stay in contact with the High Commission, follow guidance from local authorities and seek assistance through the 24-hour Diaspora Response Centre if necessary. Many of those who have returned said they were relieved to be back in Kenya after leaving an increasingly unstable situation behind.