The United States (US) has issued a heightened travel advisory on Kenya, urging its citizens to exercise caution while in the country.
In a Tuesday March 18 notice, the US Embassy in Kenya noted that the advisory was due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping risks.
Further, the advisory warns US citizens against travelling to certain regions and recommends reconsidering travel to some parts of Nairobi.
The advisory designates several counties as Level 4, Do Not Travel, citing terrorism, kidnapping, and cross-border incursions.
These counties include the Kenya-Somalia border counties including Garissa, Wajir and Mandera.
Additionally, the US Embassy in Kenya has warned its citizens against travelling to Coastal counties including Tana River, Lamu, and areas north of Malindi.
Also, parts of northern Kenya including West Pokot, western Turkana, and areas near the Ethiopian border are on the list.
Also Read: U.S Embassy in Kenya Issues Travel Advisory, Hours After UK
US Embassy Warns of These Nairobi Hotspots
At the same time, travelers have been advised to reconsider visiting Nairobi’s Eastleigh and Kibera neighborhoods, where crime and kidnappings have been reported.
According to the US Embassy, armed carjackings, mugging, and home invasions are a concern yet local police struggling to respond effectively.
“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 read in part.
Some of the key risks highlighted in the advisory include violent crime like armed robberies, motorcycle snatch thefts, and home invasions.
Also, terrorism threat has been highlighted as a concern especially in public spaces such as malls, hotels, and places of worship have been targeted in the past.
The US embassy also stated that reports indicate that some officials demand bribes from travelers.
“Demonstrations frequently turn violent, leading to clashes with police and medical facilities, especially outside major cities, may lack adequate resources.
“Travelers are advised to carry medical evacuation insurance,” added the notice.
Also Read: UK Issues Travel Advisory on Kenya; Here’s Why
Advice for Travelers
The US government has asked its citizens to take extra precautions, including avoiding traveling at night due to crime and poor road safety.
They have also been advised to stay updated with local media on security developments.
Also, US citizens in Kenya have been asked to carry a copy of your passport and store originals securely and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for alerts.
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