The government has begun evacuating Kenyans from South Africa following a surge in anti-foreigner tensions, with 26 citizens safely returning home as authorities race to repatriate hundreds more who have requested assistance.
In a statement, the government said the first group of evacuees arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Tuesday morning after a multi-agency evacuation team activated emergency protocols on Sunday.
Upon arrival, the returnees were received by government officials and provided with consular services and psychosocial support to help them reintegrate after the ordeal.
The government said another 64 Kenyans are expected to arrive later in the day, while arrangements are being made to facilitate the return of additional citizens.
More than 200 Kenyans have so far requested to be evacuated from South Africa as concerns grow over the safety of foreign nationals amid the ongoing unrest.
"The Government is also facilitating alternative travel arrangements for additional citizens and will continue repatriation efforts until all who wish to return are safely home," the statement said.
As the evacuation exercise continues, the government has urged Kenyans still in South Africa to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to safeguard their safety.
They have been advised to avoid protest areas and large gatherings where violence may occur, remain indoors where possible during demonstrations, carry valid identification documents at all times, and follow instructions issued by South African authorities, the Kenya High Commission in Pretoria, local media and Kenyan diaspora leaders.
The government cautioned Kenyans against engaging in confrontations with individuals or groups exhibiting hostile behaviour.
Emergency assistance remains available through the Kenya High Commission in Pretoria and the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, which has activated a 24-hour diaspora response and call centre to support affected citizens.
The government said it will continue facilitating the safe return of Kenyans who wish to leave South Africa and pledged to provide regular updates on the evacuation exercise.
"We remain steadfast in our duty to champion and protect the welfare of Kenyans abroad," the statement said.
Several thousand citizens of other African countries have already left the country in recent weeks, fearing violence.
Ahead of the deadline, thousands of migrants have been awaiting processing in temporary camps for several weeks out of fear for their safety.
According to the government, more than 12,000 immigrants have been deported or repatriated since a wave of protests began earlier this year.
Xenophobia has long been an issue in South Africa and has sometimes led to violence.
