US Embassy issues travel advisory to its citizens

US Embassy of Kenya

 The United States of America Embassy has issued a new travel advisory warning to its citizens residing in Kenya.

The Embassy cautioned Americans from travelling to a number of areas within the country citing security risks such as crime, civil unrest, terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.

In Nairobi county, the Embassy urged its citizens to stay alert especially in hotspots of Eastleigh and Kibera due to crime and kidnapping.

The Embassy said violent crime, such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping, can occur at any time, claiming that local police often lack the capability to respond effectively to serious crimes and terrorist attacks.

"Emergency medical and fire services are limited. Avoid traveling after dark in Kenya due to crime and poor traffic safety," the advisory reads.

According to the Embassy, motorcycle crimes are common, where thieves grab items from victims and quickly flee the scene.  

"Crimes typically occur in crowded areas or when people are distracted.  Police have limited ability to respond to these crimes.  Handbags, mobile phones, and other easy-to-reach valuables are the most stolen items," it says.

The Embassy also warned against travelling at the Kenya-Somalia border counties which include Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Tana River County and coastal areas north of Malindi due to risks of terrorism and kidnapping.

At the same time, travellers were cautioned against going to the counties of West Pokot and Turkana County due to banditry risks.

The Embassy urged its government personnel to avoid travelling to specific areas designated as Level 4 as they are prohibited from moving due to kidnapping and terrorism risks.

Terrorism threats have been highlighted as a concern, especially in public spaces such as malls, hotels, and places of worship have been targeted in the past.

"Terrorist attacks on public places, such as government buildings, schools, places of worship, malls, and hotels, have occurred with little or no warning. Terrorist acts have included armed assaults, suicide operations, bomb or grenade attacks, and kidnappings."

The advisory said cross-border incursions in parts of Marsabit and Turkana Counties within 50 kilometers of the Ethiopian border rendered the area insecure.

The US citizens were further warned against demonstrations, strikes, and other political and economic protests which tend to be volatile and could result in violence.

They were further advised to stay on guard, especially in areas that are frequently visited by tourists.

“Do not resist any robbery attempt, check local media for breaking events and prepare to adjust your plans and make backup plans to leave the country and in case of emergency, review the Traveler’s Checklist,” the Embassy stated on their website.