NAIROBI, Kenya – The United States has issued fresh travel advisories for multiple countries around the world, including several in Africa, warning its citizens to avoid travel to destinations facing serious security threats or where US assistance may be limited.
In a statement released on Wednesday, February 11, the US Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs reiterated its four-tier system for travel advisories.
Under this framework, a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” warning represents the most severe warning and is issued when local conditions pose life-threatening risks or when the US government’s ability to help its citizens is severely constrained.
According to the State Department, Level 4 advisories are based on a range of threats, including armed conflict, terrorism, violent crime, kidnapping, wrongful detention, and limited emergency response capacity.
American citizens are strongly advised not to travel to Level 4 destinations under any circumstances.
Several African Countries on “Do Not Travel” List
Among the countries currently designated as Level 4 are a number of African nations that have struggled with prolonged insecurity and governance challenges. These include:
- Somalia
- Sudan
- South Sudan
- Mali
- Burkina Faso
- Niger
- Libya
- Central African Republic (CAR)
These advisories reflect ongoing threats from armed groups, terrorism, violent crime, and political instability that have made travel to these countries dangerous.
Why the Warnings Matter
The travel advisory system is continuously reviewed and updated based on changing conditions on the ground.
The State Department says it considers factors such as civil unrest, extremist activity, crime, health risks, and the capacity of local authorities to respond to emergencies when assessing a country’s risk level.
Notably, the United States issued a separate terror alert in August 2025 for Kenya — urging Americans to exercise caution when travelling to or residing in Kenya because of persistent threats from extremist groups like al-Shabaab.
Last year, amid contested elections in neighbouring Tanzania, the US also updated its advisory, urging foreigners to be cautious amid reports of potential unrest, highlighting how regional developments can influence travel guidance.
What Travellers Should Know
Level 4 advisories do not legally prohibit travel, but they signal that conditions are considered life-threatening and US consular support may be limited or unavailable.
Independent visitors, business travellers, and dual nationals should take these warnings seriously, monitor local developments, and consider alternative destinations where possible.
With global security dynamics constantly evolving, travellers are urged to check official travel advisories from the US State Department before planning or embarking on international trips.
