U.K Issues Travel Restrictions to its Citizens Over West Kenya Protests

Britain has cautioned its citizens intending to travel to Kenya against going to the west of the country. The latest travel advisory warns of rising protests which are likely to result into violence.

The advisory comes at the backdrop of heightened political tension and uncertainty which dominated months leading to the contested repeat Presidential election.

Opposition leaders have repeatedly urged their supports to protest in demand of electoral reforms and as a result, pockets of violence have been witnessed in parts of Kisumu and other opposition strongholds.

“The western part of the country has seen an increase in protests in the run up to elections, some of which have turned violent,” the latest update on the UK government travel website states.

“There are media reports that the governors of Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Kakamega and Migori have said that elections won’t be allowed to take place in their counties on 26 October. This may trigger further protests. You should avoid travelling around these regions on and around days of planned protests including areas where demonstrations may take place,” the notice further read in part.

Beside the political jittery, the advisory hints on the security threats mostly posed by the long standing terrorism by Somalia based extremist group Al Shabab.

“Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Kenya. The main threat comes from extremists linked to Al Shabaab, a militant group that has carried out attacks in Kenya in response to Kenya’s military intervention in Somalia.”

Kenya generates significant foreign revenue from its bustling tourism sector, notable among them – its diverse wildlife, unique geographical features, culture and its coastal beaches.

Given that most travelers are mainly influenced by media reports and such advisories, this is likely to affect the tourism sector for a while.

President Uhuru Kenyatta on the eve of repeat polls called on Kenyans to honour the election, and end perpetual politicking and uncertainty.

However, most visited national parks, reserves and wildlife conservancies including the Masai Mara, Amboseli, Aberdare National Park, Laikipia, Samburu, Tsavo and Lake Nakuru are not affected by the advisory.