In a swift move to safeguard its citizens caught in the crossfire of the escalating conflict between Israel and Lebanon, the Kenyan government has earmarked Sh100 million (approximately 775,000 USD) to support evacuation efforts and bolster security operations.

The decision comes amid growing concerns over the safety of the more than 26,000 Kenyans residing in the volatile region.

Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Minister Musalia Mudavadi revealed the details on Wednesday during an address to the Senate.

During his address, he emphasised the government's priority of ensuring that no Kenyan is left behind as tensions flare in the Middle East.

“After the government reached out to the Kenyans in Lebanon, I informed the Senators that a number of them had said they were comfortable there and would reach out to the government when the situation was unbearable,” Mudavadi noted in his statement.

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Since 23rd September, Israel has launched a series of intense airstrikes in Lebanon, reportedly targeting Hezbollah positions.

These air raids have caused extensive damage, displaced hundreds of thousands, and led to numerous casualties, further complicating the security landscape for those living in the region.

Mudavadi disclosed that around 1,500 Kenyans have already registered for assistance through Kenya’s embassy in Kuwait.

The registration marks the first step in what is expected to be a large-scale evacuation, one that the government is treating as an urgent priority.

“The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs is working diligently to ensure that no lives are lost, and no Kenyan is left stranded,” Mudavadi reiterated.

While the immediate focus remains on the safety of Kenyans in Lebanon, the government is also advancing plans to develop a broader strategy for assisting citizens in global conflict zones.

However, financial constraints have proven to be a challenge, hindering the swift execution of these plans.

As the situation in the Middle East continues to evolve, the Kenyan government remains vigilant, pledging its support to those in need while monitoring the rapidly changing dynamics on the ground.