The Kenyan government has announced the evacuation of 86 Kenyans from South Africa amid fears of Xenophobic attacks.
In a statement, the Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary, Roseline Njogu, said the evacuation process began on Sunday, June 28, after emergency protocols were activated.
The first group of Kenyans arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Monday, June 29 morning, while 64 others landed at the airport on Monday afternoon.
“We have today evacuated 86 Kenyan nationals from the Republic of South Africa, fleeing the xenophobic attacks on African migrants by certain groups in South Africa,” she announced.
PS Njogu noted that the Kenyan government will continue facilitating repatriation efforts for Kenyans who are flying out of South Africa.
The Diaspora Affairs PS also issued an advisory to Kenyans who remain in South Africa, urging them to stay vigilant and follow safety measures while the situation continues to be monitored.
“Kenyans currently in South Africa are urged to take the following precautions: Avoid protest areas and large gatherings where violence may occur; Stay indoors where possible, particularly during demonstrations; Carry valid identification at all times and present it to authorized officers when required; Follow guidance from South African authorities, the Kenya High Commission in Pretoria, local media and Kenyan diaspora leaders; and Refrain from confrontations with individuals or groups exhibiting hostile behaviour,” the statement added.
This follows similar calls by the majority of African nations to repatriate their citizens from South Africa following the anti-immigrant unrest and violence.
The governments fear that the situation could escalate into widespread violence, similar to previous xenophobic outbreaks.
More than 12,000 immigrants have been repatriated from South Africa since a wave of protests began earlier this year.
At least two Mozambicans, an Ethiopian and a Malawian have been killed in anti-immigrant violence over recent weeks.
