NAIROBI: US Embassy Issues Travel Advisory To Its People In Kenya
The United States Embassy has issued a fresh travel advice warning to its people in Kenya.
The Embassy advised Americans not to go to some areas of the country due to security concerns such as crime, civil instability, terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping.
The Embassy in Nairobi County advised its people to remain vigilant, particularly in crime and kidnapping areas such as Eastleigh and Kibera.
The Embassy stated that violent crimes such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping can happen at any time.
They also alleged that local police frequently lack the resources to respond effectively to significant crimes and terrorist strikes.
“Emergency medical and fire services are limited. Avoid traveling after dark in Kenya due to crime and poor traffic safety,” the advisory reads.
According to the Embassy, motorbike crimes are widespread, with thieves taking belongings from victims and fleeing the scene.
“Crimes typically occur in crowded areas or when people are distracted. Police have limited ability to respond to these crimes,” it says.
“Handbags, mobile phones, and other easy-to-reach valuables are the most stolen items.”
"Incapacitated Police Service"
— NTV Kenya (@ntvkenya) March 18, 2025
The Kenya police has been put on the spot by the US govt over its capability to respond effectively to serious crimes and terrorist attacks.
The US Embassy has issued a warning to its citizens visiting Kenya.#NTVTonight @jamessmat @kevinmutai_ pic.twitter.com/pl5yjxB2mo
The Embassy also advised against going to the Kenya-Somalia border counties.
These include Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Tana River County, and the coastal areas north of Malindi owing to terrorism and kidnapping concerns.
At the same time, travelers were advised to avoid the counties of West Pokot and Turkana owing to banditry dangers.
The Embassy encouraged its personnel to avoid traveling to particular Level 4 locations, which are barred from moving due to kidnapping and terrorism threats.
Terrorism threats have been identified as a worry, particularly in public locations such as malls, hotels, and houses of worship, which have previously been targeted.
“Terrorist attacks on public places, such as government buildings, schools, places of worship, malls, and hotels, have occurred with little or no warning,” the statement read.
“Terrorist acts have included armed assaults, suicide operations, bomb or grenade attacks, and kidnappings.”
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According to the advice, cross-border incursions in Marsabit and Turkana counties within 50 kilometers of the Ethiopian border have rendered the area insecure.
Citizens in the United States were also advised against explosive demonstrations, strikes, and other political and economic rallies that could turn violent.
They were also cautioned to exercise cautiousness, particularly in tourist-heavy regions.
“Do not resist any robbery attempt, check local media for breaking events and prepare to adjust your plans and make backup plans to leave the country and in case of emergency, review the Traveler’s Checklist,” the Embassy stated on their website.
NAIROBI: US Embassy Issues Travel Advisory To Its People In Kenya
