The US Embassy in Nairobi has issued a security alert advising American citizens in Kenya to exercise heightened caution ahead of the planned Saba Saba demonstrations and an increased security presence across the country.
In the advisory issued on Tuesday, July 7, the US embassy warned that security checkpoints, traffic disruptions and congestion could occur in several parts of Kenya, including Nairobi’s Central Business District and other urban areas.
US Embassy Tells Americans in Kenya to Avoid Saba Saba Protests, Crowds Amid Security Alert
The embassy noted that demonstrations can arise at any time, particularly in business districts and along major transport routes, urging U.S. citizens to remain vigilant and avoid areas where protests may take place.
“U.S. citizens are advised that around July 7 there may be a heightened security presence. Security checkpoints, traffic disruptions, and congestion may occur,” the embassy said in the alert.
The advisory further reminded Americans that demonstrations may occur without notice and encouraged them to keep track of local developments before travelling.
As part of the safety guidance, the embassy urged U.S. citizens to avoid protests and large crowds, monitor local media for updates, keep vehicle doors locked and windows rolled up while travelling, and inform family and friends of their whereabouts.
The embassy also advised Americans to review their personal security plans and carry a copy of their U.S. passport together with a valid Kenyan visa while moving around the country.
Also Read: LIVE: Saba Saba Protests, Nairobi CBD | Thika Road | Real-Time Updates
The alert comes as the National Police Service (NPS) has intensified security by setting up checkpoints on major roads across Nairobi as Kenyans commemorate Saba Saba Day.
The service said the move is part of measures to maintain law and order during the annual Saba Saba Day commemorations.
Police Mount Security Checkpoints Across Nairobi
Major highways leading into Nairobi’s Central Business District were paralysed on the morning of July 7 as police mounted heavy roadblocks and security checkpoints to contain the demonstrations, leaving commuters stranded amid tear gas and running battles.
Thika Road, Jogoo Road, Mombasa Road, Waiyaki Way and Lang’ata Road all experienced major disruptions and diversions, with access to the CBD virtually blocked for motorists and matatus, triggering massive traffic snarl-ups across the city.
Parliament Buildings are under heavy security, with anti-riot police deployed around the precincts to prevent Saba Saba protesters from accessing the area.
Also Read: Tahmeed Bus Among Vehicles in Major Nairobi-Mombasa Highway Crash
In a statement issued on Monday, Police Spokesperson Michael Muchiri said the heightened security measures were informed by past experiences in which some demonstrations turned violent, leading to breaches of the peace and disruption of normal business activities.
“The National Police Service wishes to inform all members of the public that, in light of past experience during the Saba Saba commemoration, some members of the public have caused breaches of the peace, thereby interfering with the normal conduct of business for those not participating in the demonstrations,” the statement said.
Some schools in Nairobi and Kiambu counties have begun turning away students and pupils as uncertainty and transport disruptions caused by the Saba Saba protests continue to affect movement.
Heavy traffic has built up at Allsops Junction along Thika Superhighway after police established a roadblock to inspect vehicles heading towards Nairobi.
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