The United States of America (US) Embassy in Nairobi has issued a travel advisory to its citizens living in Kenya.
In a statement on Tuesday, March 18, the US Embassy urged American citizens to exercise caution while in the country.
The Embassy pointed out that the travel advisory is due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.
“Exercise caution in Kenya due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. Some areas of the country have a greater risk,” read the advisory in part.
The US Embassy warned US Citizens against traveling to Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, and Tana River counties over risks of terrorism and kidnapping.
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American citizens were also cautioned against traveling to West Pokot and Turkana County due to banditry attacks.
“Do not travel to Kenya-Somalia border counties (Garissa, Wajir, Mandera), Tana River County, and coastal areas north of Malindi due to terrorism and kidnapping.
“West Pokot and western Turkana County due to banditry. Parts of Marsabit and Turkana Counties within 30 miles (50 kilometers) of the Ethiopian border due to cross-border incursions,” the US Embassy stated.
Further, the US Embassy urged US citizens to reconsider traveling to the Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera due to crime and kidnapping.
“Violent crime, such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping, can occur at any time. Local police often lack the capability to respond effectively to serious crimes and terrorist attacks. Emergency medical and fire services are limited. Avoid traveling after dark in Kenya due to crime and poor traffic safety,” the US Embassy added.
The embassy mentioned that motorcycle crimes are common in Kenya, where thieves grab items from victims and quickly flee the scene.
Additionally, the US Embassy asked US Citizens to be on high alert in public places, such as government buildings, schools, places of worship, malls, and hotels due to terror attacks.
