The United Kingdom has issued a travel advisory warning its citizens residing in or planning to travel to Kenya to exercise caution following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

In a statement released on October 16, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) urged British nationals to remain vigilant and avoid non-essential travel to several regions, citing heightened security risks including kidnapping and terrorism.

“Following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, Kenya is observing seven days of national mourning from 15 October.” The statement read.

Adding that, “Roads to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi have sometimes been blocked by demonstrations, and the airport was temporarily closed due to a security situation following the arrival of the body of Raila Odinga on 16 October. It has since reopened,” read part of the advisory.

The FCDO added that disruptions could continue, particularly in Nairobi and Kisumu, throughout the mourning period.

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Advisory Highlights Security Concerns and High Kidnap Risk

The British government warned that Westerners, including British nationals, are perceived as legitimate targets by criminal groups and that “further kidnaps are very likely.”

Citizens were urged to avoid political gatherings, large crowds, and to monitor local media for updates on demonstrations and security alerts.

The advisory also listed several areas where travel should be avoided or limited, citing persistent terrorist threats and instability.

Areas Advised Against Travel

According to the FCDO, all travel is discouraged to the following regions due to the threat of terrorism and armed conflict:

• Mandera County
• Tarbaj and Wajir East constituencies in Wajir County (excluding Wajir Town)
• Garissa County, except for Garissa Town, Lagdera, and parts of Balambala
• Lamu County, excluding Lamu Island and Manda Island
• Areas within 60 km of Kenya’s border with Somalia

The advisory also warns against all but essential travel to Garissa Town, Tana River County north of the Tana River, and within 15 km of the east coast between the Tana River and the Galana (Athi-Galana-Sabaki) River.

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FCDO Cites Frequent Attacks in Northern Kenya

The UK government attributed several recent attacks in northeastern Kenya to the Somali-based militant group Al Shabaab, noting that both security personnel and civilians have been victims.

“Armed militia groups operate within the Boni National Reserve and along the Somalia border,” the statement said.

It further advised that anyone traveling to Lamu Island or Manda Island should fly directly to Lamu Airport and avoid traveling by road.

For movement between Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and Nairobi City, travelers were urged to use Mombasa Road or the Nairobi Expressway.

Curfews and Security Measures in Northern Counties

The advisory also referenced dusk-to-dawn curfews imposed in Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo-Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia, and Samburu counties due to ongoing insecurity.

Travelers were urged to comply with local directives and exercise extreme caution.

In addition, the UK warned of banditry, ethnic clashes, and cattle rustling in rural areas of northern Kenya, as well as potential landmine attacks near the Kenya-Ethiopia border around Moyale.

“There is a large security presence in Mount Elgon because of armed clashes. Further incidents are possible. Seek local advice before you set off,” the advisory added.

President William Ruto with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. PHOTO/ Courtesy.