4/10/12

Talking Points-Kenya


The following Talking Points may be used in conversations with the media and clients when discussing security issues and travel to Kenya. (Updated April 10, 2012)

There is an updated Travel Warning for Kenya by the U.S. State Department; however, it does not specifically state that Americans should avoid travel to Kenya. The updated Travel Warning states that Americans “should evaluate their personal security situation in light of continuing and recently heightened threats from terrorism and the high rate of violent crime in some areas. The levels of risk vary throughout the country.”

o The warning further states: “Violent and sometimes fatal criminal attacks, including armed carjackings, home invasions/burglaries, and kidnappings can occur at any time and in any location, most particularly in Nairobi. U.S. citizens have fallen victim to such crimes within the past year. U.S. citizens in Kenya should be extremely vigilant with regard to their personal security, particularly in public places frequented by foreigners such as clubs, hotels, resorts, upscale shopping centers, restaurants, and places of worship. U.S. citizens should also remain alert in residential areas, at schools, and at outdoor recreational events.” Kenyan government officials believe a number of attacks have been carried out by a group called al-Shabaab – a “designated terrorist organization, with links to al-Qaida.”

o Kenyan troops have traveled into southeastern Somalia to track these terrorists. Those actions have led to threats of “retaliation against civilian targets in Kenya,” according to the U.S. State Department. Also, the Horn of Africa is experiencing severe drought conditions. Those conditions are forcing people to seek refuge in Kenya and the influx is resulting in increased crime and violence. According to the U.S. State Department, “Sporadic violence, protests, and clashes occur in and around Isiolo and Moyale, both in Eastern province. While this violence is not directed at foreigners, protests and tribal clashes are unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are advised to check conditions before traveling to these areas.” The U.S. is not the only country to warn travelers about the ongoing safety issues in Kenya. According to Reuters: “Britain, the United States and Australia have issued travel advisories to citizens intending to visit Kenya following the killing of tourists in the coastal resort of Lamu ... An explosion hit a bus station in Nairobi on [March 10], an attack the government blamed on al Shabaab. Police said grenades were thrown and nine people had been killed.”

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