‘The situation could change quickly!’ Britons given travel warning as popular African destination presents life-threatening danger
Britons visiting Kenya have been given an important update regarding the political situation in the country.
Protests across the country, which have led to a loss of life, could impact the safety of holidaymakers.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) told Britons: “Recent weeks have seen major protests across multiple cities in Kenya, including Nairobi and Mombasa. A number of protestors have been injured and killed.
“The situation could change quickly. Avoid political gatherings and large crowds and monitor local media to see when and where major protests are likely. Follow local news and the instructions of local authorities closely.”
Holidaymakers were warned that the situation in Kenya ‘could change quickly’
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Britons were recently warned of the potential dangers of a holiday in Kenya.
A previous warning from the FCDO read: “There have been injuries at anti-government political demonstrations in recent months.
“Planned protests about the proposed Finance Bill 2024 are expected to continue across multiple cities in Kenya, including Nairobi.”
Holidaymakers flock to Kenya year after year to experience the epic Maasai Mara National Reserve, stunning Lamu Island and picturesque Lake Nakuru, among others.
But despite its popularity as a tourist destination, it’s important that holidaymakers consult UK Government advice before visiting.
Britons are advised to consult the FCDO for information on warnings and insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, regional risks, health and getting help in an emergency.
The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to parts of Kenya.
Areas the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:
- Within 60km of Kenya’s border with Somalia
- Eastern Garissa County, up to 20km north-west of the A3 road, including the Boni National Reserve
- Mandera County, excluding Mandera West sub-county
- Lamu County, excluding Lamu Island and Manda Island
- Tana River County north of the Tana River, up to 20km north-west of the A3 road
- Within 15km of the coast between the Tana River and the Galana (Athi-Galana-Sabaki) River
This is due to the risk of terrorism from groups based in Somalia. Britons were warned: “There have been frequent attacks in the north-eastern border regions, most of which were attributed to Al Shabaab.
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‘Recent weeks have seen major protests across multiple cities in Kenya’
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“Attacks have killed members of the Kenyan security forces as well as civilians. The Kenyan security forces have increased their presence in the affected areas. Armed militia groups operate within the Boni National Reserve and along the border with Somalia.”
The FCDO also shared specific information for travellers to Lamu Island and Manda Island, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Nairobi City, North and north-east Kenya, the Kenya-Ethiopia border and Mount Elgon.
Closer to home, Britons have been issued a Europe travel warning as groups are under attack.
