The United Kingdom has issued a travel advisory cautioning its citizens residing in or planning to visit Kenya to avoid certain regions due to security concerns. In a statement released on September 18, the UK government, through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), outlined several areas where it advises against all travel or only essential travel, citing risks such as terrorism and kidnapping.
The office advises against all travel to regions along the Kenya–Somalia border and the northern parts of the east coast, where terrorist threats remain high due to the presence of groups based in Somalia.
“FCDO now advises against all travel to areas in the east of Kenya, including the border with Somalia, and now advises against all but essential travel to some neighbouring areas,” the advisory states.
These areas include:
- Mandera County
- Tarbaj and Wajir East constituencies in Wajir County, except Wajir Town
- Areas of Wajir County within 60km of Kenya’s border with Somalia
- Garissa County, except for Garissa Town, Lagdera constituency, and parts of Balambala constituency located north and west of the main road from Saka to the C81 road intersection
- Lamu County, excluding Lamu Island and Manda Island
FCDO lists areas UK citizens should avoid unless necessary
The advisory also recommends avoiding non-essential travel to the following areas:
- Garissa Town
- Tana River County, north of the Tana River up to the town of Saka
- Areas within 15km of the east coast between the Tana River and the Galana (Athi-Galana-Sabaki) River
FCDO warns of a high risk of kidnapping across Kenya, stating that British nationals are perceived as legitimate targets. Westerners have been previously targeted, and the advisory notes that further kidnaps are “very likely.”
“There have been frequent attacks in the north-eastern border regions, most of which were attributed to Al Shabaab. 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 office stated.
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Lamu Island and Manda Island
British nationals traveling to Lamu Island or Manda Island have been advised to fly to Lamu Airport, which is located on Manda Island. The advisory strongly recommends not traveling by road due to the threat of terrorism in the surrounding areas.
For movement between Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and central Nairobi, travelers are advised to use Mombasa Road or the Nairobi Expressway. This is due to general transport risks, including crime and congestion.
FCDO further noted that rural regions in the north and northeast of the country occasionally experience incidents such as cattle rustling, banditry, and ethnic clashes. While foreign nationals are not usually the target of these events, travelers have been warned to take great care in these areas.
In Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia, and Samburu Counties, travelers should follow all local security measures and exercise heightened caution. The Kenyan government has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in parts of these counties due to persistent security issues.
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According to FCDO, the Kenya–Ethiopia border region, particularly around Moyale near the A2 road, has experienced landmine attacks.
The office advises that vehicles crossing the border at this location should remain strictly on the A2, and travelers should avoid overnight stays at the Sololo rest house, opting instead to travel directly to Marsabit before stopping.
In the Mount Elgon region, the UK notes a significant security presence due to past armed clashes. The situation remains volatile, and further incidents are possible. Travelers are advised to seek local advice before visiting or passing through the area.
Travel insurance advised
British nationals who choose to travel to Kenya are urged to conduct thorough research on their destinations and secure appropriate travel insurance. The insurance should comprehensively cover the planned itinerary, activities, and emergency situations.
FCDO emphasized that its travel advisories aim to inform citizens about potential risks so they can make informed travel decisions. More information can be accessed through official FCDO communication channels.
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