Kenyan businessmen are counting losses following the ongoing widespread looting and protests linked to xenophobia in South Africa.
Kenya’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Jean Kamau disclosed on Wednesday that Kenyans in Gauteng Province have been physically assaulted and their businesses looted and burnt.
Ms. Kamau urged Kenyan nationals to heed calls by the police to report any incidence affecting them, adding that the High Commission will remain open for Kenyan citizens to report incidences and seek advice.
“The Kenya High Commission has since reached out to the affected individuals and encouraged them to respond to the instructions and calls by the South African police to report and open files regarding all incidences,” she said in a statement on Wednesday.
“Kenyan community members in South Africa are asked to ensure that they work with their local diaspora leaders to monitor the situation and take measures to safeguard their security. All must remain vigilant and aware of their environment,” she added.
The High Commission said it will remain open as usual for Kenyan citizens to report incidences and seek advice.
In the past few days, rioters have caused chaos in Johannesburg, South Africa’s commercial capital, torching vehicles and looting shops, many of which are owned by foreign nationals.
JK/abj/APA