Canadians are advised to exercise a high degree of caution because of the increasing number of terrorist acts, kidnappings and incidents of crime targeting Westerners throughout Kenya.
There is a heightened risk of terrorism throughout Kenya, including Nairobi. The insurgent group Al-Shabaab has publicly warned of planned terrorist attacks in Kenya. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time and could target areas frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. On April 23, 2012, the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi issued a Security Message for U.S. citizens stating that it has received credible information regarding a possible attack on Nairobi hotels and prominent Kenyan government buildings, particularly in the downtown core or Central Business District. Timing of the potential attack is not known.
On May 15, 2012, two attacks occurred in different parts of Kenya. A remote-controlled bomb was detonated in Dadaab, killing a police officer and wounding three others. In Mombasa, attackers targeted The Bella Vista night club on Moi Avenue. The attackers shot a security guard and threw grenades into the night club, killing one person and injuring several others. A grenade attack targeting a church in Nairobi killed one person and injured several others on April 29, 2012. For safety reasons, travellers should avoid visiting businesses during peak hours, steer clear of areas with large crowds and remain vigilant when in restaurants, shopping centers and other public areas.
Canadians should also be very cautious if attending sporting events, such as football matches. You should avoid public venues such as sports bars, night clubs and restaurants which will be broadcasting these games, as well as public transportation, such as taxis, to and from the events. You should monitor local media for current information and amend your travel arrangements accordingly.
Coastal areas
Canadians planning to stay at coastal resorts located south of Lamu District should opt for resorts that provide professional security. On September 11 and again on October 1, 2011, armed men attacked beachfront properties in Lamu District, resulting in the death of one foreign national and the kidnapping of two others (one of whom has subsequently died while in captivity, and the other was released in March 2012). In November 2011, gunmen believed to be Somali pirates attacked a village near Malindi and abducted six fishermen.
National parks and tourist areas
Most visits to national parks, game reserves, and other popular tourist destinations in Kenya remain incident free. However, foreign tourists, including Canadians, have been victims of crime, sometimes involving violence. On November 4, a tourist was shot and her Kenyan driver was killed in an armed attack on their vehicle near a game park north of Nairobi. Travellers should remain aware of their surroundings at all times.
Nairobi and other major cities
In recent months, foreign nationals have been the victims of daytime carjackings and kidnappings in neighbourhoods normally deemed safe during daylight hours. Travellers should be vigilant and avoid heavily populated areas of major cities to minimize the risk of being caught up in violent clashes, as well as isolated places where they may be vulnerable to a covert ambush. In Nairobi, travellers should particularly avoid the Kibera, Mathare, Kasirani, and Eastleigh neighbourhoods.
Northern Kenya
Northern Kenya, referring to the areas located north of the Kitale-Samburu-Garissa line, is considered particularly unsafe. The ongoing threat posed by terrorism is joined by various regional, tribal, or clan-based conflicts involving land, cattle, and water. Armed escorts are recommended when travelling to or from this region. Escorts are available from local police stations and it is advisable to contact them before undertaking any journey. Canadians are advised to avoid venturing away from tourist areas and to refrain from travelling after dark.
Western Kenya
Violence has also regularly been reported in the Mount Elgon area of western Kenya, and Canadians travelling to that region should remain vigilant at all times. In March 2008, military troops were deployed in Mount Elgon forest to pursue the Sabaot Land Defence Force (SLDF) militia, who are said to have killed hundreds of residents. Canadians are advised to exercise a high degree of caution.