The United States (US) embassy has raised its travel advisory for Kenya from Level 2 to Level 3, urging Americans to reconsider travelling to the country because of heightened health and crime risks.
In the updated advisory issued on October 19, the US Department of State raised concerns about access to medical services in Kenya, warning that facilities outside major urban centres may have limited capacity, equipment and medicines.
The department noted that medical services are often unavailable in rural areas, while many health conditions may require medical evacuation at the traveller’s expense.
“The Department of State increased its Travel Advisory for Kenya from Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) to Level 3 (Reconsider Travel). On May 17, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Ebola outbreak in the DRC and Uganda. See the advisory on Travel from the Ebola-Impacted or Elevated Risk Countries section.
Medical services in Kenya are limited. They are often unavailable in rural areas. Medical facilities in Kenya often lack sufficient medicine and equipment,” read part of the advisory.
US Flags Medical Risks in Updated Kenya Travel Advisory
The advisory also added that medical facilities in Kenya generally require upfront payment before providing treatment.
The advisory also raised concerns about some rehabilitation centres, schools and other facilities that claim to offer rehabilitation services but operate with little or no government supervision.
According to the department, physical and emotional abuse is common in some of these facilities, with residents, including American citizens, reportedly being held against their will.
The US government warned that Americans or residents who deceive individuals into travelling to Kenya or forcibly place American citizens in such facilities could face legal consequences in the United States.
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Crime Risks
The advisory warned that violent crime in Kenya can occur at any time, including armed carjackings, muggings, home invasions, sexual assaults and kidnappings for ransom. It also highlighted petty theft and fraud targeting Americans as major concerns.
The US Department of State noted that local police may be unable to respond effectively to reported crimes. It warned that robberies are often committed by individuals riding motorcycles and urged solo travellers to exercise caution, citing cases of Americans who have experienced sexual assault in bars, resorts and hotels.
On kidnapping, the department warned that terrorists, criminal gangs and other armed groups abduct people for ransom. It added that local law enforcement agencies may lack the equipment and training needed to respond effectively to kidnapping threats.
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On road safety, the US government warned that traffic accidents are among the leading causes of injury and death among Americans in Kenya. It cited risks on major highways, including the Nairobi–Nakuru and Nairobi–Mombasa roads, where some drivers overtake with little regard for oncoming traffic.
According to the advisory, tourists have also suffered serious injuries or died in safari vehicle accidents, urging its citizens to wear seatbelts.
The department urged Americans who decide to travel to Kenya to enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates and help the US government contact them or their emergency contacts during emergencies.
The advisory further urged Americans to avoid physically resisting robbery attempts, exercise caution when walking or driving at night, avoid displaying expensive jewellery or watches, remain vigilant around banks and ATMs, and avoid opening hotel or residential doors to unknown individuals.
Travellers were also advised to ensure their insurance covers medical evacuation, review the latest travel health information from the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and purchase travel insurance that includes medical coverage, evacuation assistance and trip cancellation protection.
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