Kenya has joined other nations in advising its citizens to leave Lebanon due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
This recommendation follows Iran’s vow of revenge against Israel for the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry, through the Department of Diaspora Affairs, has urged Kenyans currently in Lebanon to either evacuate or move to safer areas.
The ministry expressed deep concern over the situation and called on those affected to register for evacuation.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the ministry advised Kenyan nationals to contact the provided numbers for safety coordination or visit the ministry’s offices at the Old Mutual Building, Ground Floor, Upper Hill Road.
For evacuation, citizens can register via +96590906719, +96171175006, or +254114757002, or by filling out an online form provided by the ministry.
Kenya has a significant presence in Lebanon, with many skilled workers employed there.
A 2022 International Labour Organisation (ILO) report noted an increase in Kenyan workers in Lebanon, with 3,233 new arrivals in 2021.
In October 2023, an additional 1,500 Kenyans moved to Lebanon as part of an agreement between the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) and various agencies.
Most Kenyan workers in Lebanon are female domestic workers, while others are employed as food and dairy technologists, veterinary staff, agricultural officers, tourist consultants, computer experts, technicians, and hospitality workers.
The heightened tension in the region follows the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh on July 31, 2023, in Tehran.
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps reported that Haniyeh was killed by a short-range projectile, an incident that has intensified fears of a broader conflict involving Iran and Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has not claimed responsibility for the attack, which has further inflamed regional tensions.
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