NAIROBI, Kenya — The United States Embassy in Kenya has issued a security advisory cautioning U.S. citizens and residents about a planned demonstration expected to take place near the embassy premises in the Gigiri neighbourhood of Nairobi on Wednesday, January 14.
In a notice released on Tuesday, January 13, the embassy said it had received reports circulating on social media calling for a protest in the vicinity of the diplomatic mission. The planned demonstration is reportedly in response to recent U.S. military action in Venezuela that has drawn global attention.
“There are reports on social media calling for a demonstration in the vicinity of the U.S. Embassy on Wednesday, January 14, in protest of U.S. military action in Venezuela,” the statement read.
The advisory urged U.S. citizens in Nairobi to monitor local media for updates, avoid areas where demonstrations are expected, and stay aware of their surroundings. American nationals were also advised to keep a low profile, avoid crowds, and stay in close contact with friends and family for their safety.
The planned protest is linked to U.S. military operations in Venezuela earlier this month, which included a raid in Caracas that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, and their transfer to the United States, where Maduro pleaded not guilty to various charges.
Before the advisory, reports suggested that local groups such as the Communist Party of Kenya (CPK) and the Kenya Left Alliance had encouraged youthful demonstrations in solidarity with Venezuelans opposed to U.S. military involvement.
While the embassy did not indicate that operations at the mission would be affected, it reiterated the need for vigilance and preparedness, especially around public demonstrations that could lead to unexpected disruptions.
As Kenyans and foreigners alike navigate the alert, authorities and embassy officials continue to emphasise personal safety and awareness amid evolving regional and international developments
