The Kenyan government has confirmed the repatriation of citizens from South Africa following renewed xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals in parts of the country.
Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs Roseline Njogu said the first batch of 26 Kenyans had already been successfully evacuated, with additional groups expected to arrive in the country in phases as coordination efforts continue.
She further indicated that another group of 63 Kenyans was scheduled to arrive later on Tuesday, June 30, with more evacuations planned for Wednesday as the operation intensifies.
“So far, since we issued a call to the Kenyan diaspora living in South Africa who would like to be evacuated, we have received slightly over 200 registrations,” she said.
According to Njogu, more than 100 Kenyans are currently taking shelter at the Kenyan High Commission in Pretoria after fleeing areas affected by the attacks. She said the mission is providing temporary shelter, protection, and essential support services while coordinating safe passage with South African authorities.
“Our team at the Kenya High Commission is extending services to them and offering sanctuary and shelter. We are coordinating with the South African government to ensure the safety of Kenyans who have sought shelter there and to ensure they move safely to the airport before evacuation,” she stated.
The evacuation process comes days after Kenya’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Elizabeth Choge, announced that Kenyans with irregular immigration status were being assisted to obtain emergency travel documents to facilitate their return home. The arrangement was scheduled to run between June 27 and July 3 at the Kenyan High Commission in Pretoria.
Authorities noted that while at least 50 Kenyans had formally requested urgent evacuation assistance, the affected group represents only a small portion of the estimated 27,000 Kenyans living and working in South Africa.
Roseline Njogu described the situation as unfortunate, reaffirming the government’s commitment to safeguarding citizens abroad and facilitating safe returns for those affected.
She added that Kenya continues to work closely with South African authorities to ensure the security of its nationals and smooth evacuation processes.
The repatriations come amid renewed concern over xenophobic attacks in South Africa, which have in past years affected migrant communities from several African countries.