This archive report was first published on 19 April 2020.
India's prolonged lockdown has left many stranded, including Kenyans who had traveled to the country for medical treatment. One such family is that of Simon Leiyan Chege and his 10-year-old son, Lewis, who are stuck in New Delhi.
According to Mr. Chege, Lewis was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2018 and underwent treatment in India, but the lockdown has made it difficult for them to leave the country.
"We need help out of this place," Mr. Chege told the Nation. "The air isn't fresh. We would appreciate any help to get back home," Lewis added.
Mr. Chege and his son landed in New Delhi on February 26, 2018, and have been undergoing treatment at the Max Super Specialty Hospital. However, the lockdown has made it difficult for them to exit, even if help were to come their way from friends.
"Before the lockdown, I had to carry him on my shoulders and walk to the hospital because he is too weak to walk to and from the hotel and I cannot afford a cab," Mr. Chege said.
They are now paying Sh3,750 daily for accommodation and are struggling to cope with the situation.
Government officials have said they are unable to repatriate Kenyans stuck in India, citing difficulties in hiring an aircraft that would accept to hop from one city to another. However, Mr. Chege and other stranded Kenyans have expressed shock at this explanation.
"We are left wondering whether those in power have ever been hospitalised or had patients to take care of," Mr. Chege told the Nation.
Mr. Chege and his son are appealing for help to return home, suggesting that the government allow them to crowdsource funds from fellow Kenyans of goodwill and their families.
