Diaspora Responsibility Key as PS Warns Against Shortcuts

Several major international conflicts are reshaping the lives and livelihoods of Kenyans working abroad, particularly in the Middle East and Eastern Europe.

An escalating confrontation involving the United States, Israel, and Iran has disrupted the daily existence of more than 400,000 Kenyans in the Gulf region.

After joint U.S.–Israel strikes on Iran in late February 2026, retaliatory attacks hit U.S. bases and cities across the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia. Kenyans in these countries now report feeling “trapped,” unable to work and advised to remain indoors.

Kenya Airways suspended flights to Dubai and Sharjah as airspace closures deepened travel disruptions.

Evacuation Lessons and Diaspora Responsibility

The Principal Secretary (PS) for Diaspora Affairs Roselyn Njogu says every evacuation is different. “Different wars and places require different things,” she explains. She recalls Lebanon, where large numbers of domestic workers many undocumented complicated evacuation efforts.

“At that time there was a ban on labour mobility into Lebanon, but numbers surged as people went underground,” Njogu says. In such circumstances, the government sets up a committee in Nairobi, drafts an evacuation plan, and coordinates with missions on the ground.

Njogu insists that Kenyans abroad must take responsibility for their own migration process. “If you go to live abroad, it is your life, your responsibility. Do not outsource immigration to anybody. Call us, email us, or come to our offices for the right guidance.”

She adds that when Kenyans travel through licensed agents, the government can support them more effectively. Gaps arise when people bypass official channels, which is why 700 companies lost their licenses in the past two years.

“The pathway is there. Follow the pathway. We are happy to keep improving, but while there is a pathway, use it,” she says.

Support Beyond Extraction

Njogu notes that Kenya does not have an embassy in Lebanon, only an Honorary Consulate. Even so, the government maintains constant communication, confirming whether people have passports or identification, and arranging emergency travel documents when necessary.

Back in Nairobi, returnees receive mental health support, debriefs, and counselling. “In all these circumstances, there are people who choose not to leave,” Njogu says. Those who register for evacuation are moved to holding grounds before extraction, and the government maintains a presence in affected areas even after evacuation.

Continued registration and engagement remain critical. “We pray for de escalation, so that our nationals can have peace and continue with their work,” she adds.

Government Advisory

With the security situation evolving across Iran, Israel, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, the Government of Kenya has advised citizens to:

1. Register immediately on the diaspora platform.

2. Shelter in a place and minimize movement.

3. Follow official guidance from host governments and Kenyan missions.

4. Stay in communication with family and friends.

Diaspora families can reach the government’s 24 hour response center for assistance.

Kenya’s Diplomatic Stand

On March 2, 2026, President William Ruto condemned the strikes on the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Oman, Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain. He warned that the regionalisation of the conflict poses a grave threat to international peace and security.

“At this defining and perilous moment in global history, longstanding multilateral institutions remain indispensable frameworks for resolving the current crisis in the Middle East. Kenya calls for urgent multi stakeholder engagement towards de escalation,” Ruto said.

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