US Embassy in Kenya
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The United States Embassy in Kenya will be closed on Monday, January 20, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a significant federal holiday in the United States.
This closure, announced via a statement on the embassy's official X account, highlights the importance of commemorating Dr. King's legacy in the ongoing fight for racial equality. This closure marks the second instance this month when the embassy has halted operations due to an American observance.
Earlier, on January 8, the embassy suspended its services to honour a national day of mourning for former US President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100 and received a state funeral in Washington. The embassy’s closure impacts Kenyans seeking urgent consular services, such as passport replacements, visa processing, and citizenship matters, necessitating their return for these services on Tuesday.
Additionally, those requiring assistance from the US federal institutions or planning to travel to the United States will experience delays until the embassy resumes operations. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed annually on the third Monday in January and serves as a federal day dedicated to reflecting on the achievements and legacy of Dr. King, a key figure in the civil rights movement.
In the United States, the day is characterized by numerous volunteer service initiatives, with many Americans participating in various projects to honour Dr. King’s commitment to community service. Moreover, national parks waive entrance fees on this day to encourage public participation.
Notably, Martin Luther King Jr. Day stands out as the only federal holiday designated specifically as a national day of service, promoting volunteerism and community engagement. The US Embassy in Kenya also observes several other American holidays that necessitate temporary service suspensions, including the Fourth of July and Columbus Day, as well as Memorial Day to pay tribute to military personnel who died in service to the nation.