Kenyan authorities are warning of a heightened threat of terrorist attack in Nairobi, and believe the attacks are in the final stages of planning.
They say the attacks could be indiscriminate, targeting Kenyan institutions as well as places where foreigners gather, such as hotels, transport hubs, shopping centres and beaches.
What's causing it?
The Kenyan government is engaged in conflict with a Somali-based terrorist group which has launched raids into Kenya, murdering and abducting foreign visitors and killing local police and soldiers. Kenyan retaliation against the terrorist group (several members have been arrested or killed) has failed to neutralise the threat, and has provoked an escalation of hostilities.
Government Warnings
Travel warnings by the British and Australian foreign offices are lengthy, detailed and specific, and you should read them in full.
In summary, they warn against travel within 60 kms of the Somali border (150 kms in coastal regions) and say you should defer all but essential travel to the poorer parts of Nairobi (including, but not limited to: Kibera, Mathare, Huruma, Mukuru Kwa Njenga, Mukuru Kwa Reuben, Korogocho, Kariobangi Kangemi, Mwiki, and Kawangware.
Not Just Terrorism
Even before this latest terror threat came to light, travel to Kenya as a whole and Nairobi was fraught with danger. There are general warnings about high levels of violent crime, car-jacking and robbery. In this WorldNomads.com article on Kenyan Crime locals refer to the Kenyan capital as "Nai-robbery". Use extreme caution while travelling in Kenya.
Am I insured?
This is a complicated issue, and depends on when you purchased your policy, your country of residence, what your policy says about acts of terrorism and other factors. The best and safest thing to do is to call your insurer and clarify exactly where you stand. It might mean 'wasting' 15 minutes of your time on a phone call, but it could save you a lot of inconvenience and hassle.
Call the customer service centre (not the emergency assistance hotline), the number is on your policy documents.
What To Do
If you decide to continue with plans to travel to Kenya or Nairobi at this time here are some tips on what to do if there is a terrorist attack.
Surviving a terror attack
Travellers involved or close to a terror incident are advised to exercise heightened security awareness and to follow the directives of local authorities. Here are a few safety first tips:
- Stay within the confines of your residence or accommodation.
- Do not go out into the public streets.
- Be alert to local news developments.
- Adhere to any imposed curfews or security restrictions.
- Be aware of conspicuous or unusual behaviour. Unusual behaviour and strange devices should be reported to the police or security personnel promptly.
- If you are in a building located close to the site of a terrorist attack, stay away from the windows.
- If in the vicinity of an attack, do not stay to watch what is happening, as you will only get in the way of the emergency services. There is also a risk that additional attacks may occur.
- Make a mental note of safe havens, such as police stations and hospitals.
If there's a bomb blast
- Leave the area as soon as possible
- Do not run you may be suspected as the bomber. If you are in a crowd stay at the fringes.
- Stay clear of glass shop fronts.
- If you are injured attend to yourself before others.
- Obey all instructions and orders that are given by local police.
- Make your way to a pre planned secure area.
- If you return to your hotel stay away from the windows.
- Listen to television and radio reports.
- Contact family or friends and let them know your situation.
- Write down what you saw before and after the blast it may help the authorities in their investigation.
If you are injured
If you are injured or become ill please seek medical aid and contact your 24-hour Medical Assistance Service (numbers below).
Be aware that any functioning hospitals and clinics will be busy caring for large numbers of people who have been injured in the incident.
Preparing for terrorism
Before visiting a country where there is a risk of terrorism you should first obtain as much information on that country as possible.
- When you arrive, stay away from those areas that may have been the target of terrorism in the past.
- Identify the main tourist areas and stay away from those which appear less secure.
- Make yourself aware of your surroundings. Be aware of the conduct of people near to you.
- Stay away from large gatherings or demonstrations.
- Know the telephone numbers of local police, hospitals and your Embassy.
- If you are with friends identify a rendezvous point to meet should there be an incident.
- Prepare a plan to evacuate should there be an incident.
- Know the telephone numbers of local transport and hire car companies.
Emergency Assistance Contacts
Call the emergency assistance hotlines should you need immediate attention.Please have your name, location and phone number ready when you call (and policy number if available).
Click here for a list of 24 hour emergency assistance hotline numbers.
About WorldNomads.com
WorldNomads.com keeps our members travelling safely by offering a range of travel services such as Travel Insurance to residents from over 140 countries, the latest travel safety advice, free travel blogs and language guides for your iPhone/ Ipods.
We also offer a range of exciting travel scholarships.
Whether you’re heading off for a long weekend, seeking the ultimate adventure or travelling around the world, we’re there with you, helping to keep you safe, covered and getting the most from your travel experience.
