The United States of America has issued a travel advisory, advising its citizens to exercise caution in Kenya due to alleged crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping.
The three-level advisory which recommends heightened risks to safety and security warns against travelling to the Kenya-Somalia Border counties of Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Tana River, and coastal areas north of Malindi and Lamu due to concerns about terrorism and kidnapping.
West Pokot and Western Turkana counties have also been designated as “no-go zones” because of banditry.
In addition, travel within 30 miles (50 kilometres) of the Ethiopian border in Marsabit and Turkana counties is cautioned due to the risk of cross-border incursions.
Crime
The advisory has also identified high-risk neighbourhoods in Nairobi, specifically Eastleigh and Kibera, where crimes such as kidnapping, mugging, armed carjackings, and home invasions may occur.
The advisory states that crimes can happen at any time, and local police often lack the capacity to respond effectively.
It further points out several risk indicators such as limited health and capacity by police to deal with violent crimes such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping, which the US says 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 advisory warns.
Additionally, the advisory notes that local emergency services, including medical and fire departments, are limited.
“Local police often lack the capability to respond effectively to serious crimes and terrorist attacks. Emergency medical and fire services are limited. Avoid travelling after dark in Kenya due to crime and poor traffic safety”, it states.
“Motorcycle crimes are common, where thieves grab items from victims and quickly flee the scene. Crimes typically occur in crowded areas or when people are distracted. Police have limited ability to respond to these crimes. Handbags, mobile phones, and other easy-to-reach valuables are the most stolen items,” it adds.
Demonstrations
The embassy is also expressing concerns over demonstrations, strikes, and other political and economic protests which have become common in the country in the recent past.
Margaret Kalekye
