The Kenyan government on March 31, 2025, told Kenyans in Myanmar and Thailand to check on each other in the wake of the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck the two nations on Friday, March 28, 2025.
In its Foreign and Diaspora Affairs advisory, the government first expressed its ‘deep concern’ for citizens of the two nations before issuing safety notices to Kenyans living in the affected regions.
“Keep track of local news and official alerts for real-time information on aftershocks and emergency measures, ensure personal safety- if in a damaged or unstable building, move to a safe, open area if possible, be vigilant about falling debris, landslides and damaged infrastructure; register with the Kenyan Embassy in Bangkok or the nearest East African Community diplomatic mission for assistance and strictly adhere to evacuation orders and shelter advisories. Reach out to other Kenyans in your area, especially students, diaspora workers and vulnerable individuals to ensure their wellbeing,” said the Kenyan government in part.
Devastating loss of life and damage to property was reported in both Myanmar and Thailand after the earthquake hit. The epicenter was located in Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city. By March 31, 2025, the death toll in Myanmar stood at 1,700 with over 3,400 injured and hundreds more missing. In Thailand, 18 people were killed and 33 people injured in Bangkok. A 33-storey sky scrapper also collapsed, leaving 78 construction workers unaccounted for.
Rescue efforts are ongoing in both nations with international aid from countries including China, Russia, India and the United States of America continuing to be provided. Reports from Myanmar, however, indicate that distribution of aid continues to be hampered due to the ongoing civil conflict and concerns of aid being channeled through the military junta.
It is feared that the death toll will continue to rise as many remain unaccounted for in the hardest-hit areas.
