TUKO.co.ke journalist Harry Ivan Mboto has over three years of experience reporting on politics and current affairs in Kenya

From bustling city streets to serene coastal resorts, Kenya offers breathtaking experiences, but the Australian government is urging travellers to tread carefully amid growing security concerns.

On Friday, June 6, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) updated its travel advisory, cautioning its citizens to maintain a high level of vigilance throughout the country.

The advisory cited regional instability, the persistent threat of terrorism, frequent public protests, and a surge in violent crime as key reasons for the renewed alert.

“We continue to advise exercising a high degree of caution in Kenya overall due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime. Higher levels apply in some areas,” DFAT stated.

The department specifically advised Australians against travelling to Garissa, Mandera, and Marsabit counties, areas bordering Somalia, South Sudan, and Ethiopia, where insecurity is especially pronounced due to cross-border threats and militant activity.

According to DFAT, terrorist attacks could happen at any time, including in locations that are popular with foreigners and tourists.

Within Kenya’s major urban centres, including Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, DFAT noted an alarming rate of violent crime, ranging from robbery and carjacking to armed assaults.

Coastal resort towns, while popular with international visitors, were also flagged as high-risk areas.

The department also warned that large-scale demonstrations, often triggered by contentious government policies, political transitions, or international events, can occur with little notice and may become violent.

Such gatherings can result in road closures and severe traffic delays, even near critical areas like Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

"Be alert in public places, including shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, places of worship, as well as foreign embassies and refugee camps. Anniversary dates of previous attacks, as well as religious and festive holidays, may be of higher concern. Remain vigilant if visiting public areas," the department added.

DFAT urged Australians already in Kenya or planning to travel there to avoid large crowds, stay away from protest sites, and follow the instructions of local authorities in the event of any incident or emergency.

In a related story, the United States previously issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to exercise increased caution while in Kenya.

The advisory highlighted serious concerns including crime, terrorism, and the risk of kidnapping, particularly in areas like Kibera, Eastleigh, and regions near the Somali and Ethiopian borders.

Americans were warned against travelling to counties such as Garissa, Mandera, Wajir, Turkana, Marsabit, West Pokot, and coastal towns like Malindi.

The embassy also discouraged movement at night, citing the threat of violent crimes, poor road safety, and limited emergency response services.

Source: TUKO.co.ke