The U.S. Embassy in Kenya has released a travel warning, advising its nationals to be vigilant while traveling in the nation.
On Tuesday, March 18, in their warning notice, the U.S. Embassy highlighted primary worries about criminal activities, terrorist threats, and the potential for kidnappings.
What reasons does the U.S. have for cautioning its citizens against travel to Kenya?
The warning issued advised American citizens to avoid visiting Kenya’s border regions with Somalia such as Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera, along with coastal destinations like Malindi, because of potential threats from terrorism and abductions.
The embassy warned travelers to avoid visiting West Pokot because of criminal activity and certain areas in Turkana and Marsabit—those located less than 50 kilometers from the Ethiopian border—due to potential cross-border attacks.
The advisory further cautioned Americans against traveling after dark because of elevated criminal activity and inadequate road safety conditions.
The warning stated: "Acts of violence, including robbery with weapons, vehicle hijackings, break-ins at residences, and abductions, may happen anytime. The local law enforcement frequently struggles to adequately address major offenses and acts of terrorism. Services for emergency medicine and firefighting are restricted. Due to criminal activity and inadequate road safety measures, it’s advised not to travel during nighttime hours in Kenya."
Furthermore, U.S. citizens were advised to remain vigilant regarding demonstrations, strikes, and various protests, as these occurrences are frequent in the nation.
"The protesters frequently obstruct major junctions or expressways, leading to extensive gridlock. Instances of violence have been reported throughout the nation during these protests. Such incidents involve throwing rocks and law enforcement resorting to lethal measures.Political unrest is particularly prevalent in Western Kenya and Nairobi," cautioned the Embassy.
What preventive steps should American citizens undertake?
Moreover, U.S. citizens are encouraged to adopt preventive steps should they decide to visit the nation.
The suggested safety measures involve being cautious in locations commonly frequented by visitors, not resisting during theft incidents, keeping track of local news to adjust your plans as needed, and preparing escape routes from the country if required.
More to follow...