Kenya Continues Evacuations as South Africa Anti-Immigrant Protests Escalate

Kenya is set to receive a third group of citizens evacuated from South Africa as the government continues efforts to assist nationals affected by escalating anti-immigrant protests and fears of xenophobic attacks. The latest batch was expected to arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Tuesday night as authorities intensified support for Kenyans seeking to return home.

The flight carrying the latest group of evacuees was scheduled to land at 10:05 p.m. at Terminal 1E, where government officials, psychologists, and family members were expected to receive the returnees. The arrivals form part of an ongoing evacuation exercise coordinated by the Kenyan High Commission in Pretoria and the State Department for Diaspora Affairs.

The evacuations follow days of anti-migrant demonstrations across parts of South Africa, where protesters have demanded the removal of undocumented foreign nationals, blaming immigration for rising unemployment and increased competition for jobs. The demonstrations have created fear among many foreign nationals, including Kenyans, prompting hundreds to seek assistance from the Kenyan government.

According to officials, more than 200 Kenyans in South Africa have so far expressed interest in returning home through the government’s evacuation programme. The first group of 26 Kenyans arrived safely in Nairobi on Monday morning, followed by a second batch of 64 evacuees later the same day. The latest arrivals are expected to increase the number of Kenyans successfully repatriated as the operation continues.

To facilitate the evacuation, the Kenyan High Commission in Pretoria worked closely with South African authorities to ensure that Kenyan nationals could safely travel to the High Commission before being transported to the airport for repatriation flights. The government has also maintained communication with citizens who remain in South Africa while monitoring the evolving security situation.

Upon arrival at JKIA, the returnees are expected to receive psychosocial support from professional counselors to help them cope with the trauma experienced during the unrest. Government officials from the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, led by Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu, were also expected to receive the evacuees and coordinate additional support, including family reunification and reintegration assistance where necessary.

The Kenyan government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of its citizens abroad and has encouraged Kenyans still in South Africa who require assistance to remain in contact with the Kenyan High Commission in Pretoria.

The evacuation exercise comes as authorities continue monitoring the situation in South Africa, where concerns remain over the safety of foreign nationals following sustained anti-immigrant demonstrations and heightened tensions in several communities.