- The Australian authorities have released a travel warning advising their citizens to be more cautious when visiting Kenya because of increased risks from terrorism and criminal activities.
- The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) has particularly cautioned travelers against going to regions close to the borders with Somalia, South Sudan, and Ethiopia.
- The advisory also pointed out the possible threat of terrorist incidents in popular tourist areas and cautioned about interruptions caused by political rallies and demonstrations.
The Mountaintravel.co.ke correspondent Harry Ivan Mboto boasts more than three years of expertise in covering political and contemporary issues within Kenya.
Whether you're exploring vibrant urban areas or tranquil beachside retreats, Kenya presents stunning vistas. However, the Australian government advises visitors to exercise caution due to escalating safety issues.
On Friday, June 6, the Australian government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) revised its travel warning, urging Australians to remain highly cautious across the nation.
The warning was prompted primarily due to ongoing regional unrest, continuous terrorist threats, regular large-scale demonstrations, and an increase in criminal violence.
"We maintain our recommendation to exercise heightened vigilance in Kenya as a whole because of the ongoing threats from terrorism and criminal violence. Increased precautions should be taken in certain regions," according to DFAT.
The department particularly warned Australians not to travel to Garissa, Mandera, and Marsabit counties—areas along the borders with Somalia, South Sudan, and Ethiopia—where security risks are notably high because of transnational dangers and extremist actions.
What prompted Australia to advise against traveling to Kenya?
As per DFAT, terrorist attacks might occur at any moment, even in places frequented by foreign visitors and tourists.
In Kenya’s key urban areas such as Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, DFAT observed a concerning increase in violent crimes, which include theft, vehicle hijackings, and attacks with firearms.
Beachside resort towns, although favored by global tourists, were likewise identified as high-priority risk zones.
The department cautioned that significant protests, frequently sparked by controversial governmental decisions, shifts in political leadership, or global occurrences, might happen without much warning and could turn volatile.
These events may lead to roadblocks and significant traffic congestion, particularly around vital locations such as Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
"The authorities advise being cautious when you're in public spaces such as shopping centers, hotels, eateries, houses of worship, along with foreign embassies and refugee settlements. Be particularly watchful around anniversaries linked to past incidents and during religious festivals or holidays. Exercise heightened awareness if planning visits to crowded locations," the office cautioned.
The DFAT advised Australians who were already in Kenya or intending to visit the country to steer clear of large gatherings, keep their distance from protest locations, and adhere to the directives of local officials should an incident or emergency arise.
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