Kenya Steps Up Evacuations as 80 More Citizens Return from South Africa

Kenya has repatriated 80 citizens from South Africa following rising concerns over xenophobic unrest. 

The group, which included children and other vulnerable people, arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport late on Wednesday. The State Department for Diaspora Affairs said the returnees were received by a multi-agency team and given psychosocial support before reuniting with their families. The evacuation was coordinated with the Kenyan High Commission in Pretoria as part of efforts to assist citizens affected by the unrest.

The evacuation followed weeks of growing concern among migrant communities in South Africa after anti-immigration campaigns led to nationwide demonstrations on 30 June. The protests, organised by groups including March and March, called for undocumented migrants to leave the country. South African authorities said the ultimatum was unlawful and deployed police to prevent violence. 

Despite those measures, many migrants left their homes or sought shelter at foreign diplomatic missions. Rights groups said both documented and undocumented migrants faced harassment and intimidation.

Reports from Johannesburg, Durban and other cities described closed businesses, a strong police presence and widespread fear among migrant communities. The unrest displaced tens of thousands of foreign nationals from across Africa, with many seeking emergency assistance from their governments. 

Kenya's evacuation is part of a wider regional response, with several African countries arranging transport or temporary accommodation for citizens affected by the unrest. The State Department for Diaspora Affairs has advised Kenyans who remain in South Africa to stay alert, keep in contact with the High Commission and follow instructions from local authorities. 

Officials have not said whether additional evacuation flights will be arranged but said support for affected citizens will continue as the situation develops.