A Kenyan Somali businessman, Ali Sambul, has shared his difficult experience after returning home from South Africa, where he had lived and worked for several years.Speaking upon his arrival in Kenya aboard Kenya Airways, he expressed relief to be back home despite the painful experiences he endured abroad.

He explained that in the weeks leading up to his repatriation, he had to seek refuge at the Kenyan Embassy in South Africa for about two weeks after rising tensions and attacks targeting foreign nationals.According to Sambul, his shop was attacked and broken into during the unrest.He reported losing all his valuables, including his phone and business stock.In a distressing account, he also mentioned that he suffered physical harm during the incident, including losing teeth after being attacked.

His testimony reflects the broader experiences of many East African migrants who have recently faced hostility and displacement in parts of South Africa.Another returnee, Freddom Salama, also expressed relief upon arriving back in Kenya, noting that despite challenges at home, “home is the best.” He highlighted missing Kenyan food, unity, and even the perception of better safety structures back home.

Several Kenyans online reacted to the repatriation with mixed sentiments, with some emphasizing the importance of investing locally while abroad and others welcoming the returnees warmly.The Kenyan government facilitated the evacuation and repatriation process, flying affected citizens back home.

Many of the returnees expressed gratitude for the intervention while also calling for continued support to help them rebuild their lives after losing livelihoods and property in South Africa.