Death of Homeless Kenyan in UK Renews Calls for Overseas Safe Houses

The death of a Kenyan man who was living without shelter in the United Kingdom has prompted renewed calls for Kenya to establish safe houses for citizens facing crisis abroad.

The man, identified as Kepha Otundo, was found dead in early January in Reading, Berkshire, after exposure to extreme cold. He had been staying in a makeshift encampment along Abattoirs Road, where several homeless individuals had erected temporary tents. The site had recently been cleared following legal eviction orders, leaving those who had been living there without protection during freezing winter conditions.

Otundo’s death has highlighted the risks faced by some migrants who fall outside formal housing and welfare systems. While many Kenyans abroad are in stable employment and accommodation, a smaller but vulnerable group struggles with housing insecurity, limited income, and weak support networks. These challenges are often intensified by high living costs, particularly in major cities.

In the United Kingdom, rising rents and shortages of affordable housing have placed pressure on low-income residents, including migrants. Some Kenyans work multiple low-paid jobs to meet housing costs, often relying on shared or temporary accommodation. Others move frequently between short-term arrangements while continuing to support relatives in Kenya through remittances.

Migrants without regular immigration status or strong family connections are especially exposed. Fear of stigma or of being perceived as having failed can discourage individuals from seeking assistance. In some cases, lack of awareness about available services further limits access to support.

Against this backdrop, Kenyan officials and community advocates have renewed proposals for the creation of overseas safe houses. These facilities would provide temporary accommodation for citizens in distress, alongside basic needs such as food, clothing, and medical care. They would also offer legal guidance and support for those seeking repatriation.

The idea of safe houses has been under discussion for several years, but Otundo’s death has brought renewed urgency to the issue. Supporters argue that such facilities would provide a structured response for emergencies, particularly in countries with large Kenyan migrant populations.

Roseline Njogu, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Diaspora Affairs, has been a leading advocate for the initiative. She has stated that safe houses are necessary in regions where Kenyan workers face higher risks of exploitation or limited access to social protection. According to her, priority locations include parts of the Middle East and Southeast Asia, where labour migration from Kenya is significant.

Njogu has said the proposed facilities would go beyond short-term shelter. Plans include access to legal assistance, medical services, and coordination with Kenyan authorities to facilitate return home when required. The aim is to provide a clear point of contact for citizens who find themselves in crisis situations abroad.

Alongside the safe house proposal, the government is considering the establishment of a Diaspora Welfare Fund. The fund would enable Kenyan missions to respond quickly to emergencies, including covering costs for temporary accommodation, medical care, or evacuation. At present, embassies and consulates rely on limited resources and ad hoc arrangements when assisting distressed citizens.

Kenya does not currently operate government-run safe houses overseas. Diplomatic missions provide consular services such as help with lost documents, legal referrals, and communication with family members. The State Department for Diaspora Affairs also runs a 24-hour call centre to guide citizens during emergencies. In some cases, host governments and local charities offer shelter or seasonal support, though access can be inconsistent.