Safety and security

Political Situation

On 29 March, the National Police Service (NPS) announced that it would heighten security across the country in April to deter opportunistic criminal elements intending to interfere with the holidays of Ramadhan and Easter. Irish Citizens in Kenya are advised to be extra vigilant during this time. The full statement is available here.

Political violence can occur in the run up to elections in Kenya. If travelling before or during an election you should monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities. Always avoid demonstrations, as they may turn violent. 

Outbreaks of violence between tribal groups, usually around land or livestock disputes, can occur from time-to-time in rural areas, particularly in Western and North Western Kenya. Irish citizens are advised to exercise caution, to monitor the Embassy travel advice, and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Terrorism

There is a high risk of terrorist incidents within Kenya. A Somali terrorist group, Al-Shabaab, has carried out a large number of terrorist attacks in Kenya in recent years, which have targeted military, police and civilians and resulted in major loss of life. Most terrorist activity has centred on the North Eastern part of Kenya and the coastal area, but major attacks have taken place in Nairobi in the past and there is a risk of terrorist attacks throughout Kenya.

There is an increased risk of terrorist attacks in Naivasha, Nanyuki, Meru, Narok and in coastal areas such as Lamu county. Potential targets include areas where westerners gather such as hotels, bars, restaurants, sporting events, supermarkets, shopping centres, beach resorts, government buildings, airports, western embassies, international schools, buses, trains and other transport hubs.

Attacks can occur at any time.  We advise Irish citizens to remain particularly vigilant during public and religious holidays, as there is a heightened risk of terrorist incidents.

There have been a number of terrorist attacks in recent years: 

• In January 2020, Al Shabaab launched an attack at a Kenya Defence Force Military Base in Manda May in Lamu County. This attack resulted in Lamu airport closing for a time.
• In January 2019, there was an attack on a Hotel in the Riverside area of Nairobi resulting in loss of life.
• In 2015, an attack on Garissa University resulted in the deaths of at least 148 people.
• In 2013, an attack on the Westgate shopping mall in Nairobi resulted in the deaths of over 60 people, including foreign nationals.
• In 2012, there was an attack at a sports bar in Mombasa.

We advise Irish citizens to remain vigilant in all public places, and in the event of an attack, to follow any alerts issued by the authorities, leave the area immediately if safe to do so, and avoid returning in the aftermath in case of a follow up attack.

Advice on what actions to take in the event of a terrorist attack is available on the UK’s Counter Terrorism Police website https://www.counterterrorism.police.uk/staysafe/

Kidnapping

Kidnapping is a risk throughout Kenya, particularly in areas close to the Somali border. There have been several cases of westerners’ kidnapped recently included two Cuban doctors and an Italian NGO worker. 

Crime

Violent crime is common in Kenya and perpetrators are often armed. You should be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you are a victim of a crime then we advise that you cooperate with all demands to avoid the risk of injury and report the matter to the nearest police station. When travelling in a vehicle keep doors and windows locked. Only travel by foot in areas where it is safe to do so and we advise against travelling by foot after dark. Most hotel rooms have a safe to store valuables.

The Nairobi suburbs of of Buruburu, Eastleigh, Kasarani, Kibera, Mathare, Pangani, South B and South C have high rates of crime.

Be extra vigilant in the Central Business District.

There is a danger of mob justice at the scenes of criminal activity before the arrival of the police.

Thieves may be disguised as police officers or private security and you should ask to see ID if approached.

Never leave drinks unattended, or accept drinks from strangers due to the risk they may have been spiked, putting you in danger of sexual assault or robbery. 

If travelling to and from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport it is advisable to use the Mombasa road due to the threat of carjacking on other routes. Allow plenty of time to arrive at the airport.

In the Mombasa area, avoid the area around the Likoni ferry after dark.

Home invasions are a risk for those living in Kenya. If you live in Kenya, you should ensure you have strong personal security measures in place.

It is important to seek a doctor immediately in the case of a sexual assault due to the high rates of HIV/AIDS in Kenya.

Driving

Road conditions and driving practices in Kenya can be hazardous, even in major urban centres. We strongly advise against undertaking long overland journeys, especially at night. If using a hire car or vehicle, you should ensure the roadworthiness of the vehicle and the reliability of the driver, before departure.

An international driving licence is required for overseas visitors.

Public Transport

Private licenced operators operate most public transport in Kenya. Vehicles can be in poor condition and accidents are common, which can result in serious injuries and fatalities. Matatus (public buses) and Boda boda (motorcycle taxis) can be especially dangerous.

Pick pocketing and theft on public transport is common. Pay close attention to belongings at transport hubs and on vehicles such as trains and buses.

Only use well-marked and reputable taxis when travelling in Kenya.

Border regions

Avoid non-essential travel within 75km of the Kenya-Somalia border due to the very high risk of terrorist activity in the region.

There is a risk of inter-tribal tensions at the northern borders of Kenya.

If travelling to Lamu or Manda Island you should travel by air rather than by road. 

Safari

If in Kenya on Safari, ensure you stay in camps with good perimeter security, seeking advice from the Kenya Tourism Federation (+ 254 20 8001000) or your tour operator if in doubt, and always follow any advice from park wardens.

There remains a serious threat of piracy if sailing in coastal waters off Somalia, the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean.

Local laws and customs

Possession of ivory in any form, as well as other protected animal parts, is a crime in Kenya and can result in a large fine or imprisonment.

Remember, the local laws apply to you as a visitor and it is your responsibility to follow them. Be sensitive to local customs, traditions and practices as your behaviour may be seen as improper, hostile or may even be illegal.

Individuals are required by law to carry ID on them at all times and police may request evidence of this. Kenyan identification documents or passports should be carried at all times. You should keep a copy of the data and photo page of your passport in a safe place.

We advise caution if purchasing land or engaging in business ventures in Kenya as fraud is very common. Title deeds/certificates of ownership should be closely examined and verified with the authorities before any transaction takes place. Commercial disputes can take many years to resolve before the courts.

We advise caution if travelling to Kenya to meet an online acquaintance due to instances of fraud.

Homosexuality is illegal in Kenya and public displays of affection could lead to arrest and imprisonment. More information for LGBT travellers is available at the following link dfa.ie/travel/assistance-abroad/lgbt/

Kenya has banned plastic bags for environmental reasons and you will be asked to leave any plastic bags on the plane before leaving the aircraft on arrival.

Kenya prohibits smoking in public places, except in designated smoking areas. If in any doubt do not smoke.

Many areas of Kenya are predominately Muslim and you should dress conservatively if travelling in these areas outside of resorts.

Photography is prohibited around many government buildings and facilities including airports. This includes the CBD area of Nairobi. 

If issued with an on the spot fine you should ask that the correct process is followed and that you are issued with the correct documentation.

Health

Vaccination or prophylaxis for certain diseases is advised for Kenya, including malaria. Please consult your doctor well in advance of travel for advice on health care. A yellow health passport is required when travelling from some neighbouring countries and will be inspected on arrival in Kenya.

Pharmacies and medical centres are accessible in most parts of Kenya but the quality of medical care can vary. Ensure that you have an adequate supply of any prescription medications with you if travelling outside of the main urban centres.

Water quality can be poor in Kenya and outbreaks of waterborne diseases can occur.  Ensure that drinking water is safe before consumption.

Always ensure you have travel and medical insurance that covers all your planned activities while in Kenya. 

Additional information

Entry requirements (visa/passport)

Irish passport holders require a visa to travel to Kenya. Please check with the closest Kenyan Embassy to you for details. E-visas can be acquired online from Kenyan Embassies before travel.

Passports should be valid for at least 6 months from date of entry into the Kenya and have at least 2 blank pages. 

Money

The currency in Kenya is Kenya Shilling and it is used for most transactions. Prices for hotels and safaris are usually quoted in US dollars but can also be paid in Kenya Shillings. US dollars are generally not accepted elsewhere.

ATM machines and currency exchange offices are widely available.

New banknotes have been introduced in Kenya and the older bank notes will not be accepted after 30th September, 2019.

Dual nationality

Kenyan citizens must register their second nationality with the government. Please check with the closest Kenyan Embassy to you for details.