Govt Rolls Out Evacuation Plans for Kenyans in Lebanon Over War Fears

Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs offices in Nairobi.
Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs offices in Nairobi.
State House

In response to escalating tensions in Lebanon, the Kenyan government has initiated an urgent evacuation plan to ensure the safety of its citizens in the foreign land. 

The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs has issued a statement expressing deep concern over the deteriorating situation and urging immediate action.

"Kenyans in Lebanon, we have noted with deep concern the unfolding situation in Lebanon," the Ministry's statement begins. 

"We are appealing to those who can move to safer areas within Lebanon and those able to leave the country to do so."

The Ministry has set up multiple channels for Kenyans to register for evacuation. Citizens in Lebanon are urged to register urgently through the provided link here or contact the Ministry via the following phone numbers: +96590906719, +96171175006, or +254114757002. 

Additionally, Kenyans with family members in Lebanon can call the same numbers for safety coordination or visit the Ministry's offices located at the Old Mutual Building, Ground floor, Upper Hill Road.

Kenyans pictured outside the country's Honorary Consulate in Beirut, Lebanon
Kenyans pictured outside the country's Honorary Consulate in Beirut, Lebanon

"We are also requesting Kenyans in the Diaspora to help convey this information to as many people as possible, especially our brothers and sisters in Lebanon," the statement adds, highlighting the crucial role of the Kenyan diaspora in disseminating this urgent information.

The Ministry has reassured Kenyans in the Diaspora that their safety remains a top priority. 

The State Department for Diaspora Affairs emphasizes that continuous updates and further assistance will be available through their social media pages.

As the situation in Lebanon remains fluid, the Kenyan government is committed to providing all necessary support to ensure the safe evacuation of its citizens.

On Monday, August 5, Beirut airport was teeming with people trying to leave the country amid fears a full-scale conflict was on the horizon.
 
Tensions in the region have spiralled in the last week following the killing in Tehran of Palestinian militant group Hamas' head, and an Israeli strike on Beirut's suburbs that killed a top commander in Lebanon's armed group Hezbollah.
 
Hezbollah and Iran have vowed to retaliate against Israel for the killings, prompting concerns that the multiple fronts being fought in parallel to the Gaza War could escalate into a full-blown regional war.
 
Hospitals in southern Lebanon, where most of the tit-for-tat exchanges between Hezbollah and the Israeli military have taken place, are worn down by a years-long economic meltdown and have struggled to cope with wounded patients over the last 10 months.
A street in Beirut pictured after a blast on August 10, 2020
A street in Beirut pictured after a blast on August 10, 2020
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