The government has outlined a targeted and resource-sensitive plan to repatriate Kenyans stranded in conflict zones, as it seeks an additional Ksh.400 million to support evacuation efforts.
Appearing before the National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Affairs, officials from the State Department for Diaspora Affairs said the funds will be used to facilitate urgent evacuations, particularly for citizens caught up in the Russia-Ukraine war and ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Focus on vulnerable Kenyans
Ambassador Hellen Gichuhi, Secretary of Diaspora Welfare and Partnerships, said the government is prioritising the most vulnerable cases rather than carrying out a blanket evacuation.
“We are currently evacuating 15 Kenyans from Iran to Turkey, which has already incurred significant costs. Among them were five children, who are being prioritised under our repatriation guidelines,” she told lawmakers.
She explained that priority is given to Kenyans in distress, especially minors and those trapped in active conflict zones, noting that limited resources must be directed where they are most needed.
With over 500,000 Kenyans living in the Middle East, officials maintained that a mass evacuation is not feasible, and many citizens are instead advised to leave high-risk areas voluntarily.
Funding constraints and logistical challenges
The department revealed it is currently facing financial strain, with pending bills amounting to Ksh.206 million, including Ksh.131.9 million for air travel.
Officials said the additional Ksh.400 million, if approved, will boost the department’s budget and enable it to sustain evacuation operations, cover transport costs, and respond to emerging crises.
Some evacuation efforts, particularly those involving Kenyans in Russia, were described as sensitive, with officials noting that certain negotiations cannot be made public.
At the same time, the government said it has taken steps to stop further recruitment of Kenyans into conflict zones, especially in the Russia-Ukraine war.
Calls for accountability and partnerships
Lawmakers raised concerns over how beneficiaries are selected and how the additional funding was calculated.
“Regarding the request for Ksh.400 million, what criteria is used to identify beneficiaries, and how were these figures arrived at?” asked Gilgil MP Martha Wangari.
Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan cautioned against over-reliance on public funds, urging the government to work with international organisations.
“It is not sustainable to repatriate all citizens in distress abroad. There must be shared responsibility, including working with international organisations such as the IOM,” he said.
Despite the concerns, officials insisted they have responded to all reported distress cases and continue to engage foreign governments to support affected Kenyans.
The funding request is now before Parliament, which is expected to deliberate on the proposal as pressure mounts to safeguard citizens caught in volatile regions.
