The United States Embassy in Nairobi has issued a fresh security alert warning American citizens and other foreigners in Kenya.
In the advisory released Tuesday, August 19, the embassy warned citizens against visiting high-traffic areas frequented by tourists and foreigners.
Some of the areas include hotels, restaurants, malls, markets, embassies, schools, police stations, and places of worship, which the Embassy notes remain potential targets for attacks.
Further, foreigners have been asked to heighten their personal security and situational awareness amid persistent threats from terrorist groups, especially al-Shabaab.
“Terrorist groups, such as al-Shabaab, are an ongoing and persistent threat not only in Kenya as a whole, but also in Nairobi.
Locations such as hotels, embassies, restaurants, malls and markets, schools, police stations, places of worship, and other places frequented by foreigners and tourists continue to be attractive targets.”
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Advise to US Citizens
The embassy advised Americans and other expatriates in Kenya to remain vigilant by reviewing personal security plans.
They have been asked to monitor local media for updates, and avoiding crowds, demonstrations, and protest areas.
The foreigners were also urged to keep a low profile in public spaces.
The advisory comes against a backdrop of Kenya’s history of high-profile terror incidents.
Al-Shabaab has carried out some of Kenya’s deadliest attacks, including the 2013 siege of Nairobi’s Westgate Mall that left 67 people dead, and the January 2019 assault on the DusitD2 hotel complex in which 21 people were killed.
“Terrorist groups can attack with little to no warning. While attacks can occur at any time, concerns are heightened in proximity to anniversary dates of prior attacks such as August 7th, September 11th, September 21st Westgate Mall attack, and the October 7th Hamas attack against Israel.”
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Embassy Issues Emergency Contacts
For emergencies, the US Embassy in Nairobi is located on United Nations Avenue, Gigiri, and can be reached directly via +254 (0) 20 363 6000.
American citizens in Kenya can also access consular services through the US Citizen Services portal on the embassy’s official website (usembassy.gov).
Moreover, the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs is available for additional support.
Citizens calling from within the United States or Canada can use +1-888-407-4747, while those calling from overseas, including Kenya, can reach them at +1-202-501-4444.
Travelers are advised to review the latest Kenya Country Information available on the State Department website for detailed safety and travel guidance.
US citizens have strongly encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service provides security updates and makes it easier for the U.S. government to locate and assist citizens during emergencies.
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