US Issues Another Security Alert to Its Citizens in Kenya

The United States has issued an alert warning its citizens in Kenya against traveling to some parts of the country due to insecurity.

In the alert issued on Friday, the US Embassy in Nairobi cited the recent deployment of additional security personnel to six Rift Valley counties in a bid to counter banditry.

The counties include Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia and Samburu.

“The Kenyan Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government issued Public Order No. 1 of 2023 imposing a 30-day nighttime curfew in these areas. Per the Order, there shall not be public gatherings or travel in these areas from dusk to dawn,” the Embassy said in a statement.

The embassy further said US government personnel are restricted from traveling in the areas.

This comes barely two weeks after the embassy issued a terror alert advising American citizens in the country to exercise vigilance in high-traffic locations frequented by foreigners.

The embassy, through a security advisory circulated on February 9th, urged its citizens in Nairobi and other areas within Kenya to review their personal security plans.

It noted that the Kenyan capital city remains a key target for terrorists who may be planning imminent attacks in the country.

“Terrorist groups could attack with little or no warning, targeting hotels, embassies, restaurants, malls and markets, schools, police stations, places of worship, and other places frequented by foreigners and tourists,” the alert read in part.

American nationals and other foreigners were asked to be mindful of their surroundings and keep an eye on local media for updates.

In addition, the American embassy said the government of Kenya has heightened its counterterrorism patrols in response to the increased threat of terrorism.