By John Mutiso
The United Kingdom has issued a fresh travel warning to its citizens in Kenya, citing increased security risks in several regions.
The advisory, released by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) on Tuesday, December 2, highlights ongoing terrorism threats posed by groups operating from Somalia.
In the updated guidance, the FCDO outlines specific regions where British nationals are advised against all travel, including Mandera County, Tarbaj and Wajir East constituencies in Wajir County, with only Wajir Town exempted.
The restriction also covers parts of Garissa County, excluding Garissa Town, Lagdera, and sections of Balambala located north and west of the main Saka–C81 Road corridor.
In the coastal region, Lamu County is also listed, except for Lamu Island and Manda Island.
The FCDO further warns against all but essential travel to Garissa Town, and parts of Tana River County located north of the river up to Saka, as well as the 15km stretch along the east coast between the Tana and Galana Rivers.
Beyond the regional restrictions, the advisory stresses that no journey can be considered fully risk-free and urges travellers to make use of the safety information provided.
“No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to see general advice for women travellers; read our guide on disability and travel abroad; see general advice for LGBT+ travellers; read about safety for solo and independent travel; and see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad,” the advisory read.
The FCDO also advises anyone still planning to travel to Kenya to conduct thorough research of their destinations and secure proper insurance.
“If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency,” the advisory added.
