Kenya has issued an advisory to its citizens living and working in the Middle East following the escalation of conflict in the region, even as the government moves to secure safe travel arrangements for those wishing to return home.
In a statement released on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs said the safety and well-being of more than 500,000 Kenyan nationals residing across Middle Eastern countries remains a top priority.
The government noted that seven days into the conflict, no casualties or injuries involving Kenyan nationals had been reported, with most citizens continuing their daily activities, including work and studies, depending on the prevailing security situation.
However, Kenyans wishing to leave the region have been advised to make appropriate arrangements through commercial airlines or licensed travel agents, where travel conditions remain safe.
The ministry revealed that Kenya Airways has begun utilising safe air corridors negotiated with relevant authorities to facilitate the repatriation of Kenyans who may be stranded in affected areas.
Meanwhile, the government said it remains in constant communication with Kenya’s diplomatic missions across the Middle East to monitor the welfare of citizens and the security of diplomatic staff.
“The Ministry’s leadership, led by the PCS and CS for Foreign Affairs, remains in close contact with the 7 Missions and 2 Consulates-General across the region and is receiving regular updates on the welfare of Kenyan nationals and the security of our diplomatic personnel and facilities,” the government said.
At the same time, the ministry revealed that all Kenyan missions have also activated emergency and contingency response mechanisms, including evacuation plans, should the security situation deteriorate further.
Kenyans in the affected countries have been urged to remain vigilant, maintain contact with Kenyan embassies, and follow guidance issued by host governments while registering with diplomatic missions for emergency assistance.
The government also acknowledged that the ongoing conflict has disrupted trade flows, particularly affecting Kenyan exporters who rely on Middle Eastern markets for the sale of fresh produce and other perishable goods.
According to the ministry, discussions are ongoing with the national carrier and other airlines to facilitate cargo flights and obtain special permits to ensure that exports from Kenya continue reaching markets in the region.
The government has urged members of the Kenyan business community whose shipments may have been affected to remain patient as efforts to stabilise cargo operations continue.
The developments come when other nations, such as the U.S., have advised their citizens to immediately leave most of the Middle East countries over the increasing tensions.