UK Issues Urgent Travel Advisory for Its Citizens in Kenya After Raila Death

“Following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Kenya is observing 7 days of national mourning from 15 October. Roads to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi have sometimes been blocked by demonstrations, and the airport was temporarily closed due to a security situation following the arrival of the body of Raila Odinga on 16 October. It has since reopened. There could be further disruption, particularly in Nairobi and Kisumu, over the period of national mourning,” read part of the advisory.

FCDO, in turn, urged British citizens in Kenya to avoid political gatherings and large crowds and to monitor local media for information on when and where major demonstrations are likely. According to the advisory, there is a high risk of kidnapping across Kenya.

“British nationals are seen as legitimate targets. Westerners have been the target of kidnaps, and further kidnaps are very likely,” it adds.

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Due to the risk of terrorism from groups based in Somalia, FCDO advises against all travel to areas near the Kenya-Somalia border and the northern parts of the east coast.

These include Mandera County, Tarbaj and Wajir East constituencies in Wajir County, except for Wajir Town, and areas of Wajir County within 60km of Kenya’s border with Somalia

Other areas where British citizens have been warned to avoid are Garissa County – except for Garissa Town, the constituency of Lagdera and the areas of Balambala constituency which lie north and west of the main road which runs from Saka on the Tana River up to the intersection with the C81 Road – and Lamu County, except for Lamu Island and Manda Island.

On the other hand, FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Garissa Town, Tana River County north of the Tana River as far as the town of Saka, and within 15km of the east coast between the Tana River and the Galana (Athi-Galana-Sabaki) River.

The office explained that there have been frequent attacks in the north-eastern border regions, most of which were attributed to Al Shabaab.

Also Read: Germany Issues Safety and Travel Advisory to Its Citizens in Kenya

“Attacks have killed members of the Kenyan security forces as well as civilians. The Kenyan security forces have increased their presence in the affected areas. Armed militia groups operate within the Boni National Reserve and along the border with Somalia,” the advisory adds.

Lamu Island and Manda Island

In addition, British authorities urged travellers heading to Lamu Island or Manda Island to fly directly to Lamu Airport, located on Manda Island, and avoid travelling by road due to ongoing security concerns.

For those travelling between Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and Nairobi City, the advisory recommended using Mombasa Road or the Nairobi Expressway as the preferred routes for safety.

The UK government further noted that rural areas, particularly in northern and north-eastern Kenya, are occasionally affected by cattle rustling, banditry, and ethnic clashes. While foreign nationals are not usually targeted in such incidents, travellers were advised to exercise extreme caution in these regions.

Also Read: Kenya Met Issues Heavy Rainfall Advisory Affecting 34 Counties

Additionally, the advisory pointed out that the Kenyan government has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in parts of Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia, and Samburu Counties. British nationals were encouraged to adhere to local security measures and remain vigilant.

According to the update, there have also been landmine attacks near Moyale, close to the A2 road south, and travellers were advised to remain on the A2 highway when crossing the Kenya-Ethiopia border. The advisory also warned against staying at the rest house in Sololo, recommending that travellers proceed directly to Marsabit before stopping.

FCDO further said that Mount Elgon remains a sensitive area due to an ongoing heavy security presence and recent armed clashes, urging travellers to seek local advice before venturing into the area, as further incidents could not be ruled out.

There is a large security presence in Mount Elgon because of armed clashes. Further incidents are possible. Seek local advice before you set off,” the advisory adds.

The UK government has advised that if one chooses to travel, they should research their destinations thoroughly and obtain comprehensive travel insurance. The insurance should cover their itinerary, planned activities, and emergency expenses.

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