United Kingdom advises citizens to avoid Western Kenya

The United Kingdom on Thursday issued “travel advice” to its nationals in Kenya asking them to avoid opposition strongholds next week as Uhuru Kenyatta is sworn in for his second term as president.

The Foreign Office was careful to let everyone know that this is not a travel advisory or a travel warning but travel advice.

“The inauguration of President Kenyatta will take place in the Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi on 28 November; political tensions are high and demonstrations and clashes are possible throughout the country, particularly in the western region; you should exercise caution and, where possible, avoid travelling around areas where demonstrations may take place,” read the statement.

Britons have been advised to avoid areas where demonstrations, that may eventually turn violent, which include large gatherings, universities, political party headquarters and offices of the electoral commission.

However, areas FCO has advised against all but essential travel does not include national parks, reserves and wildlife conservancies. The Moi International Airport, Mombasa, Malindi and Manda airports are also not areas FCO has advised against.

British nationals, however remain free to make their own decisions regarding travel based on the information available.
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