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US travelers told to ‘draft a will’ before visiting popular vacation destination as threat level is raised
US tourists have been issued a warning by the country’s State Department if they are planning a trip to a popular African destination famed for its wildlife safaris, including preparing a will before traveling.
The US State Department has raised its travel advisory for Kenya from Level Two, ‘Exercise Increased Caution’, to Level Three, ‘Reconsider Travel’, citing concerns over civil unrest, kidnapping and terrorism.
US State Department issues warning to citizens
Americans who still plan to visit the country are being urged to ‘prepare a will’ and ‘establish a proof of life protocol with your loved ones’, with other recommendations including keeping a low profile, remaining vigilant when visiting banks or ATMs, and exercising caution when walking or driving at night.
The website warns: “Violent crime can occur at any time. Violent crimes include armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, sexual assault, and kidnapping for ransom.
“Local police often are unable to respond effectively to crimes. Crimes like robbery are common. They are often committed by individuals riding motorcycles.”
Solo travelers from the US have also been singled out in the advisory, with officials urging them to exercise increased caution after some American visitors have reportedly experienced sexual assault in bars and hotels.
Travelers are also being warned about cross-border incursions near Kenya's border with Ethiopia, alongside the risk of political unrest, with the advice stating: “Demonstrations, strikes, and other political and economic protests are common.”
Such protests can turn violent, according to the State Department, while terrorist attacks targeting Kenyan and foreign government buildings, tourist attractions and transport hubs can take place without warning.
Travel level raised despite serious warnings
Although Kenya's overall travel status has been raised to Level Three, certain areas face more serious warnings, with officials advising Americans not to visit several locations altogether.
The State Department states: “Do Not Travel to the Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera due to risk of crime and kidnapping.
“Do Not Travel to the counties of Garissa, Wajir, Mandera, Lamu, Tana River (except Tsavo National Park), Kilifi (north of highway C103), and coastal areas north of Malindi, due to risk of kidnapping and terrorism.
“Do Not Travel to West Pokot County and western Turkana County due to risk of crime.
“Do Not Travel to Marsabit and Turkana Counties within 30 miles (50 kilometers) of the border with Ethiopia due to risk of unrest.”
The US isn’t the only country issuing warnings to citizens heading to Kenya, with the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advising British nationals against ‘all but essential travel to parts of Kenya’.