The US government has released a travel advisory for Kenya, cautioning its citizens against traveling to certain regions in the country due to heightened security risks. The advisory, issued on Monday, July 31, specifically warned Americans against visiting the North Eastern counties of Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa, where kidnapping and terrorism incidents have been on the rise.
Additionally, the State Department advised against travel to Coastal counties, particularly Tana River, Lamu, Kilifi, and Malindi, due to the risks of kidnapping and terrorism. The Likoni ferry in Mombasa was also mentioned as an area of concern for safety.
Travel to Turkana County, especially the road from Kainuk to Lodwar, was discouraged due to frequent occurrences of crime and armed robbery.
Americans were also urged to exercise caution when considering travel to the Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera, both known for a high prevalence of violent crimes, including armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping.
The advisory also highlighted specific areas in Laikipia County, where criminal incursions and ongoing security operations have posed risks to travelers. The State Department recommended reconsidering travel through Nyahururu, Laikipia West, and Laikipia North Sub-counties.
The US government stressed that terror attacks in Kenya could happen without warning, often targeting foreign government facilities, tourist locations, transportation hubs, hotels, shopping malls, and places of worship. The attacks have involved various methods, including armed assaults, suicide operations, bomb/grenade attacks, and kidnappings.
Moreover, the advisory warned of potential demonstrations in Western Kenya and Nairobi, driven by economic and political instability.
The State Department advised American citizens to stay in areas frequented by Westerners and not to physically resist any robbery attempt. It also recommended monitoring local media for breaking events and being prepared to adjust travel plans or make contingency plans to leave the country if necessary.
This is the second time in two weeks that the US has issued a travel alert for Kenya. On July 25, a security advisory was issued ahead of vigils organized by Azimio la Umoja to honor victims who died in anti-government protests, warning that the events had the potential to turn violent.