Nairobi, Kenya- The United States Embassy in Kenya has issued a new travel advisory, warning its citizens of increased security risks across various regions in the country.
The advisory, published on the embassy’s website, highlights concerns over violent crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and banditry, urging American travelers and residents to exercise extreme caution.
The capital city, Nairobi, is not exempt. The embassy specifically flagged Eastleigh and Kibera as high-risk areas due to rising incidents of crime and kidnapping.
According to the statement, violent crime, including armed carjackings, home invasions, and street muggings, remains a serious issue, with local law enforcement struggling to respond effectively.
And if you think you’re safe outside the city, think again.
Several counties, including those along the Kenya-Somalia border, parts of the Rift Valley, and coastal regions north of Malindi, were marked as no-go zones due to ongoing terrorist threats and cross-border incursions.
U.S CITIZENS HAVE BEEN WARNED NOT TO TRAVEL TO KENYA.
Crime and Terrorism: Key Concerns
The U.S. government isn’t mincing words: “Do not travel after dark in Kenya,” the advisory warns, citing both crime and poor traffic safety.
Reports of motorcycle theft, where criminals snatch mobile phones, handbags, and other valuables before vanishing into the crowd, are becoming increasingly common.
Security concerns extend beyond petty crime. The advisory highlights the continued threat of terrorism, noting that past attacks in malls, hotels, government buildings, and places of worship have occurred with little or no warning.
The advisory further states:“Terrorist acts have included armed assaults, suicide operations, bomb or grenade attacks, and kidnappings.”
For U.S. government personnel, the restrictions are even stricter.
They are prohibited from traveling to Level 4 designated areas, including parts of Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Tana River, West Pokot, and Turkana counties, due to kidnapping and terrorism risks.
Beyond crime and terrorism, the embassy also flagged demonstrations, strikes, and political protests as potential dangers.
.@USEmbassyKenya issues travel advisory on Kenya citing crime, terrorism, civil unrest and kidnapping; Eastleigh, Kibera listed as hotspots.
These events, it warned, can escalate quickly into violent confrontations, posing a significant risk to bystanders.
Americans in Kenya are advised to monitor local media for breaking news, avoid large gatherings, and be prepared to adjust travel plans if necessary.
The advisory strongly emphasizes: “Do not resist a robbery attempt. Review the Traveler’s Checklist and have backup plans for leaving the country in case of emergency.”
With global travel resuming post-pandemic, Kenya remains a key destination for business and tourism.
