Travel / Departures: Caution in Kenya

Saturday 02 January 1993 00:02 GMT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

THE US State Department is advising people 'to exercise caution' when travelling in Kenya because of an expected increase in political activity in the period following this week's general election. The State Department warns of 'localised disturbances that have the potential to disrupt highway travel', and says: 'The probability of violence, looting and other criminal activity may be high during this period.'

The American Embassy says all non-essential travel should be avoided during the period immediately after the election. 'Security in the Masai Mara Game Reserve, which had deteriorated in 1991 and early 1992, has improved due to new security measures undertaken by the government of Kenya. Travellers who do not hire reputable safari firms or knowledgeable guides or drivers are at risk.'

The State Department says that safaris are best undertaken with a minimum of two vehicles so that there will be a back-up in case of mechanical failure. 'Solo camping is risky.'

In Nairobi, Mombasa and the coastal beach resorts there is widespread street crime. 'This is mostly of the 'grab and run' variety, and confidence tricks by people pretending to be police or other government agency officials. Wherever crime is a problem, walking alone or in public parks, along footpaths or beaches at night could result in being victimised. There is a high incidence of residential break-ins.'

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in