UK cautions citizens over Kenya protests
Tourists at a local game park watch as a lion, one of the Big Five crosses a path. PHOTO/FILE
What you need to know:
- “You should take care in public places where people gather, and exercise a heightened level of vigilance,” the UK advisory issued on Tuesday says.
- Official data shows that the number of international visitors stood at 206,978 between January and March, up from 177,085 during a similar period in 2015 but there are fears that the electoral-related shocks could see this number dwindle.
The United Kingdom (UK) has advised its citizens visiting Kenya to be vigilant, following recent violent Opposition protests in what could further hurt tourist arrivals.
In a foreign travel advice note, the UK government says more protests are planned in several cities in the coming months and advised its citizens to monitor local and international media.
Tourism Secretary Najib Balala said one week ago that protests by the Opposition, Cord, which is pushing for reform of the electoral agency are scaring off tourists.
“You should take care in public places where people gather, and exercise a heightened level of vigilance,” the UK security update issued on Tuesday says.
“Further political protests in Nairobi, Kisumu and other parts of Kenya are planned in the lead up to August 2017 elections. Monitor local and international media and keep up to date with this travel.”
Electoral shocks
Official data shows that the number of international visitors stood at 206,978 between January and March, up from 177,085 during a similar period in 2015 but there are fears that the electoral-related shocks could see this number dwindle.
Cord has been holding protests every Monday against the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC)- accusing the polls agency of plotting to rig the election in the ruling party, Jubilee’s favour.
“I have no objection to the demonstrations if they are peaceful. However, if we showcase tyres being burnt and people carrying weapons, then we are not showcasing the country positively. These are not the right pictures for our visitors to see,” Mr Balala said.
The UK remains the biggest source of international tourists to Kenya.
