The government has begun evacuating Kenyans stranded Iran as tensions in the Middle East continue to escalate.
The State Department of Diaspora Affairs on Friday announced the first group of evacuees is expected back home on Saturday.
In a press statement, Diaspora Affairs department said it is closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation in the region, while coordinating emergency response measures to ensure the safety of Kenyans abroad.
According to the statement, a multi-agency team has activated emergency protocols across Kenyan diplomatic missions in affected countries. The evacuation effort is being carried out in collaboration with Kenya’s missions in Ankara and Tehran.
“At least 15 Kenyan nationals have been successfully evacuated from Iran via Türkiye,” the ministry said, adding that the group is scheduled to arrive in the country in the early hours of Saturday, March 21.
The evacuation comes against the backdrop of heightened hostilities involving regional and global powers, raising concerns over the safety of foreign nationals in conflict zones.
There are about 500,000 Kenyans spread across the Middle East. The state says it requires Sh400 million to evacuate Kenyans from the region.
The government has said further interventions could be undertaken depending on how the situation unfolds.
Last week, Iran Ambassador to Kenya Ali Gholampour said Kenyans and other foreign nationals living in Iran could leave the country through open land borders if they choose.
Amb Gholampour on Thursday said the Iranian government was coordinating with several ministries to assist foreigners who may wish to exit the country amid heightened tensions in the Middle East.
“All the foreigners who are living in Iran can very easily, with the support of the relevant ministries, receive logistics to exit through the land corridors,” the envoy told Capital FM.
In the meantime, Foreign affairs officials have urged Kenyans residing in the Middle East to remain vigilant and strictly adhere to guidance issued by Kenyan embassies and host governments. The ministry emphasized the importance of following official communication channels for timely updates and safety instructions.
“Kenyans in distress should immediately contact the nearest Kenyan mission,” the statement said, providing emergency contact lines for assistance. The government has set up a dedicated hotline and WhatsApp line, as well as an official email address, to support citizens requiring urgent help.
Over the years, Kenya has faced increasing pressure to respond swiftly to crises affecting its citizens abroad, particularly in volatile regions such as the Middle East.
The ministry, however, reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Kenyan nationals, noting that it will continue to assess risks and take appropriate action where necessary.
PS Roseline Njogu assured Kenyans that the government remains fully engaged in ensuring the safety and well-being of Kenyans overseas.
