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14 things you need to know before traveling to Kenya

Nov 21, 2023 • 7 min read

Make the most of your travel through Kenya with these practical tips © Bartosz Hadyniak / Getty Images

Think of Kenya and your mind instantly fills with exquisite scenes of safari jeeps and beautiful beaches lapped by the Indian Ocean. 

But the incredible experiences stretch beyond Kenya's natural landscapes –  Nairobi offers exciting urban and cultural encounters, too.

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of a trip to this East African nation, from clothing and etiquette to safety and visas.

1. Check the visa requirements for Kenya

Many nationalities need to obtain a visa before departing for Kenya. Check the  official visa website and allow time to complete your application. Random checks can mean extra questions for some travelers, even after submission and payment.

You won’t receive an email confirmation of your Kenya visa application or payment, so you need to log in to check its status. Once issued, print a color copy (or two) of the visa and payment and keep them on hand, even for domestic flights, such as between Nairobi and Mombasa.

The good news for citizens of African countries is visas for Kenya will be a thing of the past next year. The Kenyan President, William Ruto, recently announced that visa requirements will end for all African nations by the end of 2023.

Proof of a COVID-19 vaccination and a negative PCR test is no longer required to enter Kenya. However, travelers exhibiting flu-like symptoms will be required to take a PCR test and fill out a passenger locator form.

2. Pack smart for Kenya – it’s not always hot

Early morning safaris can be chilly, so it’s wise to take layers for a trip to Kenya. Similarly, temperatures can drop at night in the highlands. Fleeces and even windproof waterproofs are recommended.

On the other hand, staying cool is key by the coast or in the city. Pack cool, breathable fabrics and always cover up in the midday sun.

3. Leave your plastics at home

Kenya banned single-use plastic bags in 2017, so leave any carrier bags (and preferably single-use plastic water bottles and straws) at home. The bag ban is countrywide – luggage is often scanned, so don’t pack shoes or other items in plastic bags.

Single-use plastic bottles and straws are banned in national parks – bring a reusable water bottle from home. 

4. Do you need malaria tablets for Kenya? Probably.

The risk of malaria is low in Nairobi, and in the highlands above 2500m (8200ft), but you should still avoid being bitten. The majority of Kenya falls into a malarial zone, so take advice on which antimalarial is best suited to you between atovaquone/proguanil, doxycycline or mefloquine.

Brand names you might be more familiar with include Malarone and Lariam, but check with your physician, pharmacy or travel clinic. Ideally do this a month in advance of your trip, as you may have to begin taking the pills some time before your trip begins.

5. Greet people with “ mambo ” or “ niaje ”

“ Jambo ” is the best-known greeting in this fantastically friendly country, but if you want to show off your sheng (a Swahili and English combo originating among Nairobi’s younger population), try greeting people with “ mambo vipi .” The common reply is “ poa .” Alternatively, say “ niaje ,” to which someone will reply with “ niaje .”

6. Feel free to bargain, but don’t go too far

A sense of humor is essential when bargaining. It’s fine to offer a lower price in markets and some shops – many sellers will start with a higher price, and it can be fun to barter and meet in the middle.

Few sellers will accept an offer that's too low so have some fun with it – just bear in mind what you’re prepared to pay, be respectful and don’t over-haggle.

7. Leaving a tip goes down a treat

Tipping isn’t expected in Kenya, but if you’ve had a good meal or service, leaving around 10% is appreciated. In hotels, you can also tip porters and housekeeping staff. Some calculate it at Ksh100 to Ksh200 a day while others round it up at the end. Keep small change on you for tips and shopping in markets.

If you’re taking a taxi, round up to the nearest 100, but tips are not always necessary. Taxi apps are popular, and you can add a tip at the end of the journey through the app. Avoid giving money in exchange for preferential service.

8. Be respectful of local communities

Never take photos of people without asking permission, particularly in rural areas and in Mombasa . If you want to publish any photos, even on social media, it’s respectful to carry a consent form and say “ asante ” (thank you).

Be particularly conscious around children or other vulnerable people. If you’re given the OK to take a photo, show it to them after you've taken it. Think twice before visiting a school (or anywhere that would be strange or inappropriate for you to go to in your home country).

Also note: anyone taking photos of infrastructure, airports and the military may come under suspicion.

9. Dress appropriately – but don’t overthink it

Kenya is moderately conservative, but that doesn’t mean you need to cover your shoulders and knees everywhere. In Nairobi, in towns and on safari, shorts, dresses and sleeveless tops are fine to wear, and the same goes for most beach resorts , although walking around in swimwear isn’t appropriate.

In Muslim communities such as Lamu Town, dressing more conservatively is advised. Loose clothing can be more comfortable in the heat.

10. Don’t rush – go with the flow

It’s misleading to suggest the whole of Kenya operates on some slower “Kenya time” – Nairobi can have the same pace and rhythm as any major city. But the heat and humidity of the coastal areas, around Mombasa, Malindi and Lamu for example, can mean life needs to be lived at a more relaxed pace.

Bear that in mind before expecting certain tasks and services to be carried out immediately, and instead, go with the flow and enjoy a pole pole  (“slowly” in Swahili) way of life.

11. You can boil the tap water in Kenya and drink it

Tap water in Kenya isn’t off-limits. If you have the facilities, you can boil the tap water – it’s soft and sweet – and drink it once cooled.

Obviously, that's not always an option, in which case filtered water in restaurants and hotels is safe. You can buy plastic-bottled water, but it’s obviously a lot more ecofriendly to bring your own reusable bottle and water filter or tablets. 

12. Pack a power bank

Power cuts in Kenya can occur (they’re usually not for long), so if you rely on your smartphone, take a power bank and ensure it’s always charged. Take a spare camera battery if you're going on safari – and a decent flashlight is helpful in case of power cuts but also when walking around the safari camp at night.

In addition to helping you navigate in low light, it will help you look out for insects and snakes. Headlamps are especially handy on a campsite for reading and for nighttime bathroom trips.

13. Don’t be scared by headlines, but know your geography

People often ask, “Is Kenya safe for tourists?” Few incidents involve tourists, especially in game reserves and tourist areas, but there are a few areas it's better to avoid.

These include but are not limited to, within 60km (37 miles) of the Kenya-Somalia border, Garissa County and Lamu County (excluding Lamu Island and Manda Island – travel by air if you're planning a visit).

Check the latest guidelines from your government before traveling. In Nairobi, as with any major city, keep valuables safe and your wits about you.

14. Keep embassy and consulate details to hand

Wherever you’re from, it’s savvy to know the contact details of your embassy or consulate. Take photos of your passport, visa and other documents, so you can access them on your phone or email.

Carry an original form of ID if possible. A driver's license is useful if you don’t want to carry your passport with you every day.

This article was first published Mar 8, 2022 and updated Nov 21, 2023.

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Travel Advisory July 31, 2023

Kenya - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in Kenya due to  crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping .  Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Do Not Travel to: Kenya-Somalia border counties and some coastal areas, due to terrorism and kidnapping .

Areas of Turkana County, due to crime .

Reconsider Travel to: Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera, due to crime and kidnapping .

Certain areas of Laikipia County, due to criminal incursions and security operations , reconsider travel through Nyahururu, Laikipia West, and Laikipia North Sub-counties.

Country Summary :  Violent crime, such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping, can occur at any time.  Local police often lack the capability to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents and terrorist attacks.  Emergency medical and fire service is also limited. Be especially careful when traveling after dark anywhere in Kenya due to crime.

Terrorist attacks have occurred with little or no warning, targeting Kenyan and foreign government facilities, tourist locations, transportation hubs, hotels, resorts, markets/shopping malls, and places of worship. Terrorist acts have included armed assaults, suicide operations, bomb/grenade attacks, and kidnappings.

Demonstrations may occur, blocking key intersections and resulting in widespread traffic jams.  Strikes and other protest activity related to political and economic conditions occur regularly, particularly in periods near elections.  Violence associated with demonstrations, ranging from rock throwing to police using deadly force, occurs around the country; it is mostly notable in western Kenya and Nairobi.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating in the vicinity of the Kenyan-Somali border, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM).  For more information, U.S. citizens should consult  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions, and Notice .

Some schools and other facilities acting as cultural rehabilitation centers are operating in Kenya with inadequate or nonexistent licensing and oversight.  Reports of minors and young adults being held in these facilities against their will and physically abused are common.

Read the  country information page  for additional information about travel to Kenya.

If you decide to travel to Kenya:

• Stay alert in locations frequented by Westerners.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Make contingency plans to leave the country. in case of an emergency Review the  Traveler’s Checklist ..
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable).  Keep original documents in a secure location.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Kenya.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Specified Areas - Level 4: Do Not Travel U.S. government personnel are prohibited from traveling to the below areas.

Kenya-Somalia Border Counties:

• Mandera due to kidnapping and terrorism.
• Wajir due to kidnapping and terrorism.
• Garissa due to kidnapping and terrorism.

Coastal Areas:

• Tana River county due to kidnapping and terrorism.
• Lamu county due to kidnapping and terrorism.
• Areas of Kilifi County north of Malindi due to kidnapping and terrorism.

Turkana County:

• Road from Kainuk to Lodwar due to crime and armed robbery, which occur frequently.

Specified Areas - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera:

• Violent crime, such as armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, and kidnapping, can occur at any time.  Street crime can involve multiple armed assailants.  Local police often lack the resources and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.

Laikipia County:

• Certain areas of Laikipia County, due to criminal incursions and security operations, reconsider travel through Nyahururu, Laikipia West, and Laikipia North Sub-counties.

Consider carefully whether to use the Likoni ferry in Mombasa due to safety concerns.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas.

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Embassies and Consulates

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United Nations Avenue Gigiri, Nairobi, Kenya Telephone: +(254) (20) 363-6451 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(254) (20) 363-6170 Email:   [email protected]

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Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

All visitors are required to obtain an electronic travel authorization before entering Kenya. 

  Required for Entry:

• Passport  with at least two blank pages, six months’ validity, and a Kenyan electronic travel authorization.
• You should have  proof of yellow fever immunizations if arriving from an endemic country , or you may be denied entry.

Obtain the latest information on visas, as well as any additional details regarding entry requirements, from the Embassy of Kenya , 2249 R Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202) 387-6101, or the Kenyan Consulate in New York City.

Working/Volunteering in Kenya : In December 2018, the Kenyan government announced a new work permit program that requires foreigners to apply for permits and visas from their country of origin. You should submit work permit applications at least 6-8 weeks prior to travel. Once in Kenya, submit a renewal application at least 90 days before your work permit expires.

For additional information on immunizations and detailed country-specific recommendations on vaccinations and other health precautions for travelers to Kenya, visit the CDC’s Travelers’ Health website .

HIV/AIDS Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to, or foreign residents of, Kenya.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction, and customs regulations on our websites.

Safety and Security

You should review the Department of State’s Travel Advisory for Kenya before considering travel to Kenya.

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are using increasingly less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

Terrorist threats remain high in Kenya. Terrorist attacks in Kenya have cumulatively resulted in the death and injury of hundreds of people, including foreigners. Attacks have occurred in periods leading up to and during religious holidays and days of national significance. However, an attack is possible at any time. Please note these recent events:

• In January 2020, terrorists attacked a U.S. Department of Defense facility on the coast, killing several individuals and destroying seven aircraft.
• In January 2019, a small bomb exploded in Nairobi’s Central Business District, slightly injuring two people.
• In January 2019, a terrorist attack on the Dusit D2 Hotel complex in the Westlands area of Nairobi resulted in the death of 21 people, including one U.S. citizen.
• In April 2019, two Cuban doctors were kidnapped from a rural area in Mandera County and were reportedly transported to Somalia.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Regions to Avoid :

• The northeastern Kenyan counties of Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and the northeastern area of Marsabit (including the cities of El Wak, Wajir, Garissa, Mandera, Moyale, and Liboi).
• All parts of the coastal counties of Tana River and Lamu, and all areas of Kilifi County north of Malindi.
• The road between Kainuk and Lodwar in Turkana County due to banditry.
• The Nairobi neighborhoods of Eastleigh and Kibera.
• Avoid using the Likoni ferry due to safety and security concerns.

Crime: Crime in Kenya is a regular occurrence and Kenyan authorities have limited capacity to deter and investigate such acts.

• Violent and sometimes fatal criminal attacks, including home invasions, burglaries, armed carjackings, muggings, and kidnappings can occur at any time.
• “Matatus” (privately-operated public transportation buses) tend to be targeted since they carry multiple passengers.
• Cases of violent street crime targeting Westerners occur in many seemingly safe areas of Nairobi, ranging from simple muggings to kidnapping and extortion, including attacks during daylight hours. U.S. citizens using off-the-street taxis have also been victims of robbery, kidnapping, and extortion.

Forced Marriage is known to occur in Kenya.

Female genital mutilation (FGM) and Cutting (C): This act is known to occur in Kenya. It is a federal crime to perform FGM/C in the United States on any minor younger than 18 years old, punishable by fines and up to five years in prison. It is also a criminal offense knowingly to take a minor younger than 18 years old outside of the United States for the purpose of performing FGM/C (so-called “vacation cutting”).

Sexual Assault is prevalent in Kenya and frequently goes unreported.

• Victims of sexual assault may have difficulty receiving adequate social or medical support .
• While sexual assault is mostly frequently associated with women, sexual assault of men also occurs in Kenya and often goes unreported because of the stigma attached to this type of assault.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State and the  FBI pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Kenya. Scams are often initiated through dating apps, internet postings/profiles, or by unsolicited emails and letters.

Common scams include:

• Romance and online dating (Check this online dating scam infographic ).
• Someone you have not met in person quickly offers friendship, romance, and/or marriage.
• Job solicitations asking for a processing fee in advance.
• A person asking for money to pay hospital bills, visa fees, or legal expenses and/or seeming to have many sudden problems overseas.
• Elaborate scam business opportunities, including fraudulent government procurements. Recently, scammers have been impersonating legitimate companies and ordering commodities shipped through Mombasa with payment terms. Companies are encouraged to independently verify the purchasing company to confirm the order prior to shipping goods without pre-payment. Please contact the Commercial Section at [email protected] for assistance verifying procurement opportunities and Kenyan buyers.
• Use good judgement and caution on social media and dating websites. If you decide to meet someone in person that you have connected with online, be sure to set up the meeting in a safe and public place, and let someone know where you are.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance.

Report crimes to the local police at 999, 112 or 911, and contact the U.S. Embassy during business hours at +254 (0) 20-363-6451, or after-hours at +254 (0) 20-363-6000.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Kenya has assistance programs for victims of crime sponsored by nongovernmental organizations. These programs include but are not limited to the following:

• Gender Violence Recovery Centre (GVRC) Gender Violence Recovery Centre (GVRC) has been providing specialized medical treatment and psychosocial support to low-income survivors of sexual and domestic violence.
• Healthcare Assistance Kenya (HAK) offers a 24-hour Rapid Response Service to women and children survivors of Gender Based Violence at its Call Centre as well as a 24 hour toll-free hotline for sexual and gender based violence assistance.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism: The Kenyan Tourism Regulatory Authority has oversight for the country’s tourism sector. The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities vary by region. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. Game parks and related safari tours with well-established operators generally have been reported to be safe.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in Kenya are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Kenya enacted strict legislation regulating the sale and consumption of alcohol and cigarettes.
• Penalties for possessing banned wildlife items under Kenya’s Wildlife Act include large fines and severe penalties, including life imprisonment.
• Violations of the Kenya Firearms Act are punishable from one year to life imprisonment. Possession of any amount of ammunition can incur a minimum seven-year sentence.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Customs regulations are strict on importing certain items into or out of Kenya such as antiquities, medications, business equipment, currency, ivory, rhino horn, and other wildlife products including hides, skins, and teeth.

U.S. citizens have been detained and arrested for attempting to bring contraband into Kenya. Contact the Embassy of Kenya or one of Kenya’s consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Alcoholic Drinks Control Act of 2010, which regulates when and where alcoholic drinks may be consumed in public, states that a person found by local law enforcement authorities to be intoxicated or disorderly in or near public areas, including some businesses, may be arrested without warrant and brought to court for trial.

• If convicted, the maximum fine is 500 Kenyan shillings and/or imprisonment for a maximum of three months.
• If convicted three times of the same charge within a 12-month period, you will be required to participate in mandatory rehabilitation at your expense.

More information on this law may be found on Kenya's substance abuse website, NACADA .

Tobacco Control Act 2007 regulates public smoking and the marketing and sale of tobacco products in Kenya. In public places, smoking is allowed only in designated smoking areas.

Currency: You may depart the country with up to 100,000 Kenyan shillings.

• Destruction of Kenyan currency, even in small amounts, is illegal, and almost always results in arrest and a fine.
• You should ensure that your U.S. currency bills are relatively new, as banks in Kenya have been known not to accept older U.S. currency.

Cultural Rehabilitation Centers: Some schools and other facilities acting as cultural rehabilitation centers are operating in Kenya with inadequate or nonexistent licensing and oversight. Reports of minors and young adults being held in these facilities against their will and being physically, sexually, and emotionally abused are common. U.S. citizens are encouraged to thoroughly research these facilities and talk to others who have used them. They should have a plan for an early return if necessary.

Safaris : Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) , the governing body of Kenya’s national parks, requires all tour operators and safari lodges carry nationally mandated insurance. You should:

• Inquire whether prospective safari camps or tour operators are in compliance with this requirement;
• Observe all local or park regulations and exercise appropriate caution in unfamiliar surroundings; and
• Thoroughly check the qualifications and safety record of all tourist lodges and guides before engaging their services and venturing into the wild in their care.

Firearms: Import, possession, and use of firearms is governed by the Kenya Firearms Act.

• Import of all firearms, including sporting guns, is prohibited in Kenya except in accordance with the terms of an import permit.
• Possession of firearms while in Kenya requires a firearms certificate, which can be difficult to obtain.
• Violations of the Kenya Firearms Act are punishable from one year to life imprisonment. Possession of any amount of ammunition is punishable by a minimum seven-year sentence.

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: Kenyan law criminalizes same-sex sexual activity. The Kenyan penal code criminalizes “carnal knowledge against the order of nature,” which is interpreted to prohibit consensual same-sex sexual activity and specifies a maximum penalty of 14 years of imprisonment. A separate statute specifically criminalizes sex between men and specifies a maximum penalty of 21 years of imprisonment. Police have detained persons under these laws, particularly suspected sex workers. LGBTQI+ advocacy organizations, such as the Gay and Lesbian Coalition of Kenya, have been permitted to register and conduct activities. However, societal discrimination based on sexual orientation is widespread.

See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Students:  See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers:   See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Travelers with Disabilities:  Kenyan law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities.The Government of Kenya has not consistently enforced these provisions and implementation has been slow.  Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States.  Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, and general infrastructure.

• Access to government or private buildings , medical facilities, restaurants, or other public or private facilities is limited.
• Accessibility to public transportation and taxis is limited. There is no functioning bus system in Nairobi, but rather an extensive use of vans (“matatus”) that travel along designated routes; taxis are also used, as are motorcycles serving as taxis (“boda bodas”).
• Public transportation and taxis do not accommodate wheelchairs; these vehicles are most often hailed from the side of busy roads.
• Footpaths along the side of roads are generally unpaved, bumpy, dirt paths, and road crossings are often unmarked.

Please visit the Embassy’s COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Kenya.

Medical services are adequate in Nairobi for most medical conditions and emergencies.

In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in or near the major cities of Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu. First responders generally are unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance and carry emergency numbers. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

For emergency services in Kenya, dial 999 , 112 , or 911 .

Ambulance services are:

• Not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas except Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Eldoret;
• Not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment; and
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. You may need to call your insurance company or pay and get reimbursed.

Surrogacy: Surrogacy programs in Kenya are unregulated and families have reported difficulties obtaining required legal documentation from Kenyan authorities and taking children out of Kenya; difficulties may increase if a parent is single.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Government of Kenya to ensure the medication is legal in Kenya.

The following diseases are prevalent:

• Schistosomiasis
• Traveler’s Diarrhea
• Tuberculosis
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Resources for Travelers regarding specific issues in Kenya.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Road accidents are a major threat to travelers in Kenya. Roads are poorly maintained and are often bumpy, potholed, and unpaved.

• Traffic moves on the left side of the road, which can be very disorienting to those not accustomed to it.
• Beware of vehicles traveling at excessive speed, and unpredictable local driving habits.
• Many vehicles are poorly maintained and lack basic safety equipment.
• Heavy traffic jams, either due to rush hour or because of accidents, are common.
• Some vehicles will cross the median strip and drive against the flow of traffic.

U.S. citizens have been fatally injured in accidents involving long-distance, inter-city buses and local buses and vans called “matatus”. Matatus are commonly known to be the greatest danger to other vehicles and pedestrians. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from using matatus.

Injuries and fatalities involving two-wheeled motorcycle taxis, called “boda bodas,” are equally common. Boda bodas often fail to observe basic safety precautions and ignore traffic rules. Inter-city nighttime road travel should be avoided due to the poor road and streetlight conditions and the threat of banditry throughout the country. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from using boda bodas.

During the rainy season, some unpaved roads are impassable even with four-wheel drive vehicles with high clearance. Travelers are urged to consult with local officials regarding road conditions.

See our Road Safety page for more information.

Trains : Most passenger trains are considered unsafe, particularly during rainy seasons, because of the lack of routine maintenance and safety checks. The only approved train route for U.S. government personnel is the Nairobi to Mombasa Standard Gauge Railway. U.S. government personnel can only ride in the first-class cabin to avoid pickpockets and facilitate a rapid exit if necessary.

Aviation Safety Oversight:

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the government of Kenya’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Kenya’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Kenya should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website and the NGA broadcast warnings .

For additional travel information

• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Kenya . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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33 Things to Know Before Traveling to Kenya

Kenya is undoubtedly one of the most magical and achingly beautiful countries in the world thanks to its diverse landscapes, a spectacular variety of wild animals, pristine beaches, fantastic hiking trails, friendly people and of course world-class safari opportunities. 

Yes! I definitely recommending you to visit Kenya! But I also know how challenging it is visiting a new country. Therefore I wrote this guide for visiting Kenya with all my travel tips and things to know before you go.

This travel blog is aimed at making your trip to Kenya much easier. So here is a complete guide with everything you need to know when you travel to Kenya.

1. Is it safe to travel to Kenya

Kenya is pretty safe for tourists! Even though it is one of the most popular places to visit in Africa and used to tourists, you should always be beware of your surroundings and practice general common-sense safety rules. 

For example, you should avoid high poverty places like slums where you could be a target for theft or getting mugged. At any time you should avoid wearing flashy jewellery or showing off expensive electronics while in public. If you’re inside a car keep the windows rolled up except for when you’re on one of those amazing Kenya safaris of course.

Also dressing down minimizes attention to yourself, but more about that later in what to wear in Kenya. Due to the high poverty rate in Kenya, tourists can be viewed as targets by opportunistic individuals. But I never had any big issues on all my Kenya trips!

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In the main tourist destinations in Kenya , you may find yourself surrounded by vendors trying to sell you their merchandise. Although that’s not much of a safety concern, they can be slightly annoying. A polite but firm “no thank you” will mostly help get rid of them.

Above all don’t be an ignorant tourist! Always check the latest safety conditions and report. Please use your common sense, be respectful to the local culture and habits and you will be totally fine on your Kenya trip.

2. Best time to visit Kenya

Kenya is an all-year-round tourist destination. The question about when is the best time to visit Kenya largely depends on for what reason you travel to Kenya for. Safari, beaches, hiking all have a different best time to visit.

Since Kenya is located on the Equator, there are no real 4 seasons. Generally speaking, the seasons are broadly categorized into four periodes: 

• hot and dry from January to March
• hot and wet from April to June
• warm and dry from July to October
• warm and wet in November and December.

However, the country’s weather pattern has seen drastic changes over the last 10 years and became rather unpredictable. The impact of climate change has been noticed throughout the years in Kenya.

Temperature in Kenya

Temperatures, on the other hand, are relatively consistent and highly influenced by the altitude only. For example, the temperatures at the coastal towns like Mombasa barely ever drop below 20° celsius (68 F). When it gets too hot during the day the cool ocean breeze helps to make it bearable.

In Nairobi temperatures can go as low as 5° celsius (41 F) around July in the cold season and as high as 26° celsius (79 F) around March and September which are the hottest months in Kenya.

The best time for safari in Kenya

Even though you can visit Kenya’s wildlife parks throughout the year, the best time is during one of the two dry seasons (January, February and March and from July till October).

The second dry season from July till October coincides with the Great Wildebeest Migration in Maasai Mara and therefore this is making it arguably the best time to visit Kenya after all.

During this breathtaking wildlife spectacle, millions of wildebeests, zebras, and antelopes make their way into Kenya’s Maasai Mara from Tanzania’s Serengeti. They cross the crocodile-infested Mara River.

One of the best times to visit Kenya for safari is during the dry seasons because then the animals are easier to spot. Animals keep moving in search of water which is quite scarce and the bushes are less dense.

If you don’t want to bump into lots of other tourists on your Kenya safari, the best time for you to visit would be around December during the short rains. Then you’ll get to admire the beautiful green vegetation and hopefully see many newborn animals on your Kenya safari as well as migratory birds that take advantage of the abundance of insects.

The best time for a beach holiday in Kenya

The weather in the coastal regions of Kenya like Diani, Mombasa, Malindi, and Lamu remains hot and humid throughout the year. Even though it rains sometimes during the dry season, the rainfall is at its highest from March to May. So are you planning a Kenya beach holiday you should consider visiting the Kenya beaches outside of these months.

If your plan is to combine your trip to the beach with your safari, the best time to travel to Kenya is between August and September.

The best time to go hiking in Kenya

The safest time for hiking and climbing around Mount Kenya is during the two dry seasons. The hiking trails can get quite slippery during the rainy season. If you plan on combining your Kenya hiking trip with the Kenya beaches, the best time to visit Kenya would be January or February.

3. Visa for Kenya

When visiting Kenya you will need a visa. The Kenya visa will cost you between $30 and $50 and can be obtained on the internet. Click here for the official site to apply for the Kenya visa .

Make sure that you apply online at least three days in advance. If you’re planning on visiting other countries like Tanzania, Uganda, etc then the greater East Africa visa will be something for you. This one costs $100 for most nationalities. 

Just like many other destinations, your passport needs to be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date out of Kenya. You also need at least two consecutive unstamped blank pages.

4. Travel insurance for Kenya

It’s also highly recommended that you purchase travel insurance for evacuation and medical emergencies. This offers you emergency treatment and an air ambulance to a hospital in Nairobi. Since a lot of things to do in Kenya are in fairly remote areas I strongly recommend you to get a good travel insurance.

I am using World Nomads for all my trips around the world. Get your free quotation below in case you don’t have travel insurance for Kenya yet. 

5. Vaccinations and Health Requirements for Kenya

There are several vaccinations that you need to protect your health on your trip to Kenya. Some are mandatory while others aren’t. The compulsory vaccination is Yellow Fever and you will be required to show a certificate of inoculation on entry. So put your vaccinations book on your Kenya packing list.

There are several diseases that you could be exposed to when you travel to Kenya, so it is strongly recommended that you also get the following vaccines: diphtheria, tetanus, hepatitis A & B, typhoid, rabies, polio, and cholera.

Is there malaria in Kenya? Yes there is, but not everywhere. Nairobi and other highlands are low-risk malaria zones, but in the valleys and low lands it is recommended to take anti-malarial medication. The most commonly prescribed anti malaria medication for Kenya is Malarone. Although it is adviced, I did NOT take any malaria pills. It is totally up to you.

Lastly, it’s a good idea to pack some medication for headaches, stomach upsets, or any allergies that you may have. The supplies should be enough to last your entire trip.

6. What to pack for Kenya

To take the stress out of packing and to make sure that you bring everything you need on your trip, here’s a list of all the essentials that you need to pack:

• Comfortable clothes (including a swimming costume) and shoes
• Toiletries 
• Passport and a valid driver’s license if you’ll be doing some driving 
• A camera plus extra batteries ( see my travel gear list for more tips)
• A wide-brimmed hat or cap
• Sunglasses 
• Reef SAFE Sunscreen and lip balm

• Credit cards and a small amount of cash in low denominations
• Malaria pills and other necessary medication
• Strong insect repellent
• Reading material and an iPod with downloaded music or podcasts

7. What to Wear

Ensure that you keep your clothing a bit conservative. Wearing hot pants, crop tops, and other clothes that show too much skin is not a good look especially in rural Kenya. 

Make sure that the fabric comfortable especially in hot weather. Bring a sweater, jacket, or warm fleece blanket for the chilly morning and evenings.

8. Carry a copy of your passport

Always make sure that you carry a copy of your passport with you at all times. This is required by law in Kenya. If the police stop you, you’ll be expected to present it upon request. It happened to me several times, as I recommend you to leave your original passport in the safe in your hotel.

Nowadays a photo on your phone will often do the job, but still I recommend you bring a hard copy. It is a small effort to easily get you out of trouble.

9. Do some Kenya travel tips research

Take time to read a guidebook before you visit Kenya. Read about the area you’ll be staying at and get pointers about the area. This helps you know about all the designated tourist destinations in Kenya like hotels and markets in advance and also lets you know if there are areas that need to be avoided. I can also recommend you my other Kenya travel blogs:

• 23 Amazing Things to do in Kenya
• Kenya Itinerary for 10 days

Reading ahead helps you plan accordingly for your trip by coming up with a proper to-do-list. This ensures that you have plenty of time between activities and time to rest in-between days.

However, if you didn’t have enough time I recommend you to order a Kenya Travel Guide online, like the Kenya Lonely Planet . Back in the days I always used them, nowadays I think they are a little outdated, but still a good source for Kenya travel tips.

10. Getting around Kenya

Some people prefer to rent a jeep or van and use it to drive themselves around. Yes, can’t deny that this sounds like lots of fun and is a lot cheaper than hiring a tour guide but driving around especially in the parks is no joke – you could easily get lost too. If you’re a first-timer who loves your freedom and care about your safety, hire a 4x4 land cruiser (this will make the ride less bumpy) and a driver.

For all my tips of how to get around Kenya  read my extensive article in the link, where I explain everything about busses, trains, domestic flights and local transport.

 When moving from one part of the country to another e.g. from Nairobi to Mombasa, find a budget airline that operates that route or take the train. Other cheaper options to move around include taxis, matatus, boda-bodas, or tuk-tuks.

11. Driving in Kenya - DIY

In Kenya they drive on the left. This is very important for you to know if you plan on renting a car on go on a road trip in Kenya.

You should also expect to be held up in traffic around the major towns during rush hours. The traffic in Nairobi is horrendous! If you want to get anywhere around the city especially to the airport, factor in a huge amount of time that you’re going to spend in traffic. My Kenya itinerary for 10 days is a great start for planning your self driving trip to Kenya.

12. Safaris, hiking, mountains and lakes

Safaris allow you to take a drive on the wild side. There are lots of safaris and multiple different national parks and reserves for you to choose from. On top of that there is some excellent hiking, and amazing lakes. If you’re confused and can’t choose between them, here is a list of some of the best places in to visit in Kenya :

• Maasai Mara
• Hell’s Gate
• Lake Nakuru
• Lake Turkana
• Mount Kenya
• Nairobi National Park

13. Currency

The currency used in Kenya is the Kenyan Shilling abbreviated as KSH. Don’t be confused when you hear people using the word “bob” it’s slang for shilling.

The exchange rate for the KSH to the USD varies of course, but in general you can easily say that $1 = 100 KSH. You can exchange your Euros, GBP, USD everywhere around major tourist destinations in Kenya. Banks and Forex Bureau are obviously the safest places to exchange money, but I never had a problem doing it random places either.

Always make sure to have some Kenyan Shilling on you especially of you are on a road trip in Kenya. For local markets, to tip people, local restaurants, souvenirs, etc.

14. ATMs and credit cards

Note that you can only withdraw Kenyan shillings at the ATMs which are widely available throughout the country. Beware of suspicious people hanging around the bank or following you if you come out of the bank. A valuable Kenya travel tip is to use ATMs inside shopping malls. The maximum amount ATMs in Kenya will let you withdraw is KSH 50,000 = approximately 500 USD.

Most lodges and restaurants accept MasterCard and Visa cards as a form of payment. Some international hotels accept Euros and US dollars in cash but their exchange rate is mostly pretty bad, so I would not recommend this to you. Always check beforehand because some places do not accept foreign cash or cards.

15. How much does a trip to Kenya cost?

Kenya is not the best backpack destination in the world and neither is it overly expensive. 

Most tour companies are all-inclusive meaning that your meals, accommodation, and transportation are catered for. However, you still need money for other purposes like purchasing souvenirs and tipping. Budget for about $250-$300 for extra expenses.

The national park entrance fee in Kenya varies between $25 and $100 per day,  a 3-course meal at an international restaurant will cost around $30 per person, and between for places to stay in Kenya you will mostly between $50 and $200 per night depending on your level of required luxury.

16. Travel to Kenya on a budget

There’s a growing backpacker trail in Kenya and hostels catering for budget travelers are growing in number and popularity. Airbnb also has a lot of hidden gems, especially at the coast.

The travel options in Kenya are limitless. If you want someone to show you around throughout your trip you can find numerous travel and tours companies to take you on an off-the-shelf or a tailor-made itinerary. You can arrange it yourself on arrival in Nairobi or book them in advanced. Here are some options of Kenya tours for all budgets.

Alternatively, if you want more independence you can definitely backpack in Kenya. Many travelers have been there before you and you will surely not be alone. It is fairly easy to travel to Kenya on a budget. Major cities are well connected by reasonable coaches and long distance busses or you could even opt to take a train from Nairobi to Mombassa. 

Don’t forget that even in Kenya there are taxi apps. Thank god for Uber in Kenya! It makes traveling around so much easier, convenient, safer and reliable.

You can also find loads of campgrounds around Kenya. Most lodges charge about $20 for you to pitch your tent. On the other hand, camping inside national parks, reserves, and conservancies could cost you up to $50 per person per night. I wouldn’t recommend camping in wild and unsafe places. If you’re looking to save a little, you can cook the meals yourself outside your tent.

17. Tipping in Kenya

Tipping guides, drivers, and staff is normal in Kenya. It shows that you appreciate the services offered and locals love to go the extra mile for it. Tipping may either be done in USD or KSH. Here are some general tipping guidelines:

• Ranger or guide: $10 to $20 per day
• Butler: $5 to $15 per day
• Transfers: $5 per transfer
• Porters: $1 per bag
• Restaurants: 10% of the bill

18. Visit a Shopping Mall

Malls are also popular hangouts for locals and you can easily spend a day getting lost in one of the dozens of huge, state-of-the-art shopping malls. I am not a fan of shopping malls in general, but it is fun to walk around for sure. There are food courts as well where you can find cheap dining options.

Visiting a shopping mall in Kenya is another way of seeing a slice of the Kenyan culture and its people rather than safaris, wildlife, beautiful beaches and amazing landscapes. Trust me they are an experience!

19. Get a Kenya sim card on arrival

If you want to stay connected to the internet than get yourself a Kenya sim card on arrival. It is pretty easy and can be done in 5 minutes. You will get them everywhere around the big cities, but the easiest is to buy a Kenya sim card at Nairobi Airport .

Have your passport ready and get your some GB to keep your friends up to date on Instagram about your amazing trip to Kenya.

Safaricom is the leading telecommunication company in Kenya and it offers great call and data packages. For everything you need to know about getting connected in Kenya read my complete guide for buying a sim card for Kenya .

20. WiFi in Kenya

Most upscale hotels offer WiFi free of charge, but it is definitely not always good. Often it can be nerve-racking slow and that is another reason to buy a Kenya sim card. Nothing beats a 4G and even 5G connection nowadays, which is usually widely available!

It is also recommended to use a VPN service for extra privacy may you use any public WiFi in Kenya, like in shopping malls, hotels, lodges, etc.

21. Drinking water

The tap water in Kenya is safe for brushing your teeth and for taking a bath, but it is not recommend to drink the water from the tap in Kenya. This doesn’t mean that tap water is necessarily contaminated but your body may not be used to it.

It is advices that you drink bottled water at all times during your Kenya trip. Most hotels, lodges, and safari camps provide clean, filtered, sterilized, or boiled drinking water for their guests. 

22. Electricity plugs in Kenya

Kenya has reliable electricity. To charge your phone, camera, or other electronics, you should have an adapter at hand though. The Kenya power plugs are comparable to the ones in the UK and are 240 V.

I always advice people to bring a universal travel adapter with them, they are cheap and worth it.

Lodges located in remote areas use solar energy or diesel generators to provide power for lighting and charging. Therefore when traveling to remote areas in Kenya use the electricity responsible.

23. Buying souvenirs - what to buy in Kenya

Kenya, just like other African countries is known for its cultural wealth which also means that the souvenir buying opportunities are numerous. You can buy them from specific markets that deal in these souvenirs or from the tribesmen and women who make a living by vending their beautiful artefacts along the side of the road.

Some common items that you could buy are local wood carvings, maasai beads, kiondo (beautiful hand-woven handbags), kikoy/shuka (a colorful local piece of fabric that may be used as a blanket or table cloth), leather products, as well as traditional artifacts like swords, bows, arrows, spears, shields, etc. 

At all times remember that bargaining is key when buying souvenirs on your Kenya trip.

24. Delicious Kenya food you should try

The national dish in Kenya is “ugali”. This is a hard porridge mash made from maize flour and is usually served with a portion of fried green vegetables with “nyama choma” – something that you definitely need to try out.

Nyama choma is Kenya’s signature roast meat dish that has now gained global significance. The ugali is best enjoyed without any cutlery. Dig in using your hands, roll the ugali into a ball, dip it into your place, scoop the accompaniment, and eat. 

In the coastal region, they have a wide selection of mouthwatering Swahili dishes like samosas, biryani, pilau, mahamri, and chapattis. 

Ooh, another craving-satisfying dish that you totally need to try when visiting Kenya is the mayai (eggs) pasua and smokie pasua. Pasua means split open. They are eggs or smokies that have been cut open and filled with “kachumbari” which is the local name for salsa containing a mixture of chopped onions, tomatoes, and coriander and sometimes chilies. These are easily found in almost any street in major towns.

Don’t be afraid to try street food in Kenya, it is delicious, worth trying, cheap and safe to eat.

25. Kenya Politics is a hot topic everywhere

Kenyans are quite political and more often than not you’ll bump into a group of people discussing “siasa” which is the Swahili word for politics. Such talks are quite lively and often tense, especially around the electioneering period. 

Despite the claims that Kenya is unsafe due to ethnic tension caused by politics, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Nothing serious ever happens such that the stability of the country is put in jeopardy.

26. Heaven for photographers

When traveling to Kenya make sure to bring a good camera and lens. Of course our modern smartphones make things a lot easier nowadays, but you will see they are not that useful on safaris.

Curious which cameras and lenses I carry around? Check out my travel gear list here.

Be aware though that it is not allowed to take pictures or videos at railway stations, airports, military barracks, police posts and government buildings.

Also, if you like to take pictures of a local or with them, ALWAYS ask first. Show some respect!   

27. Religion

Although Kenya is predominantly a Christian state, the country embraces spiritual diversity. There are many churches, mosques, and Hindu temples to be found across the country as well.

28. Cultural Events

As a multi-ethnic nation, Kenya’s different tribes hold interesting cultural festivals every now and then in different parts of the country. Some of the most popular festivals include the Mombasa Carnival, Lamu Cultural Festival, Maralal Camel Derby and the Lake Turkana Cultural Festival.

29. Nightlife in Kenya

If you are the type who like to party, there are many popular joints where you can go to enjoy your “Furahi-day” as they like to call Friday in Kenya. In Nairobi there is Westlands and in Mombasa there is Mtwapa. ‘Furahi’ is a Swahili word for ‘be happy’. Afterwards, order an Uber to drop you back home.

Through the major beach destinations in Kenya you will find nightlife as well. Diani is probably the most popular place for parties on the beach.

There are many local beers that you need to try out including Tusker, Tusker Malt, Tusker Lite, and Tusker Cider. Tusker is Kenya’s most-loved beer and the golden premium lager is best served chilled – “baridi.”

30. Plastic bags are banned

Plastic bags are banned in Kenya so make sure you only use reusable bags to hold your shopping and personal items. The ban was put in place to reduce the plastic pollution that was becoming an environmental nuisance. Violators have to pay hefty fines or face possible jail time. Something Western countries could learn from I would say! Well done Kenya.

31. Bribing is illegal

Giving bribes is very much illegal. You might sometimes think it is a good idea to get you quickly out of trouble but instead it could get you into a lot of trouble. Think twice!

32. Language in Kenya

Kenya is a multilingual country with English and Swahili being the official languages. Many locals speak both languages fluently. Learning a few Swahili words will look good and impress the Kenyan people. Your effort regardless of whether you you are pronouncing it the right way will be received with a big smile.

Here are some words to get you started:

• Hujambo or simply Jambo = means Hello
• Habari = Hello, how are you? (a common way of greeting)
• Poa sana or mzuri sana = I’m good/fine 
• Hakuna Matata = It’s alright / no problem
• Asante (sana) = thank you (very much)
• Karibu = welcome
• Hatari = danger
• Pole =  sorry
• Hapana = no

Besides English and Swahili, there are lots of local languages and dialects in rural areas.

33. People of Kenya

Last but not least let’s talk about the magnificent people of Kenya!

Kenyans are incredibly friendly. From my experience, I found out that the people of this beautiful nation have beautiful hearts and they’re very open, hospitable and delighted to welcome tourists to Kenya.you into their country.

Do not shy away from getting in touch with locals, meeting, greeting, talking, and getting to know them during your visit to Kenya. They are more than willing to help you enormously and will be delighted if you share your passion for their beautiful nation.

Enjoy your trip to Kenya

Africa is a magical continent with mountains, beaches, and beautiful wild animals like elephants, lions, and wildebeests and you can find it all when visiting Kenya. If you have always wanted to experience this unbelievable setting in a single hit, then this country is the place to go.

However, before your first trip to Kenya all the above mentioned Kenya tips are great to know to make the most of this incredible travel destination in Africa.

I hope that my tips and recommendations help to make things a lot easier. I also hope that you get to love Kenya, just as I did. Its diversity is unrivalled.

Also thanks to  Traveltomtom writer Kim Paffen , who contributed with the beautiful pictures of Kenya. Her countless trips to Kenya were another valuable source creating this Kenya travel blog.

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Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Passenger Travellers’ Info Pack – What you need to know from Customs, Kenya. 

Implementation of Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) in Kenya

The Government of Kenya implemented the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system in Kenya, in line with the Directive by H.E the President on Visa Free Regime and the Kenya Gazette Supplement No.1 of January 2, 2024, on Kenya Citizenship and Immigration.

New Digital Portal: https://www.etakenya.go.ke

The new digital portal has been launched, http://www.etakenya.go.ke, to facilitate the seamless identification of travelers to Kenya in advance. This portal replaces the previously operational www.evisa.go.ke platform, effective January 5, 2024.

Important Changes:

Starting January 5, 2024, ALL travelers (with exceptions outlined below) will be required to apply for and pay the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before their journey to Kenya.

Exemptions from Obtaining eTA:

• Holders of valid Kenya Passports or one-way Emergency Certificates issued by Kenya Missions abroad.
• Holders of Kenya Permanent Residence, valid Work Permits, and Passes.
• Holders of valid United Nations Conventional Travel Documents issued by the Government of Kenya.
• Members of Diplomatic Missions and International Organizations Accredited to Kenya.
• Citizens of the East African Partner States (Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda) – Exempted for Six (6) months.
• Passengers in transit through Kenya who do not leave the precincts of Airports.
• Passengers arriving and leaving by the same ship who do not leave the ship.
• Members of the crew of any ship, aircraft, train, vehicle, or carrier proceeding to a destination outside Kenya.
• Owners of private aircraft stopping over for refueling in Kenya without leaving the airport precincts.

Persons Applying for eTA, but Exempted from Payment:

• Holders of Diplomatic, Official, or Service Passports on official duty.
• Holders of specific Laissez-Passers for official business purposes (United Nations, African Union, African Development Bank, Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa, and others – see the complete list below).

Laissez-Passers Exempted from eTA Payment:

• United Nations Organization
• African Union
• African Development Bank
• Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa
• International Red Locust Control Organization for Central and Southern Africa
• Desert Locust Control Organization
• International Monetary Fund and World Bank
• Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD)
• African Airlines Travel Association (IATA)
• Environment Liaison Centre International (ELCI)
• Union of Radio, Television Network of Africa (URTNA)
• International Labour Organization (ILO)
• European Union
• CIP (International Potato Centre)
• African Reinsurance Corporation (ARC)
• African Housing Fund (AHF)

We encourage all travelers to visit http://www.etakenya.go.ke for detailed information on the eTA application process and to ensure a smooth travel experience to Kenya.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Kenya travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: June 4, 2024 08:09 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, kenya - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Kenya due to the threat of terrorism and a high crime rate.

Border with Somalia - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to Mandera, Wajir, Garissa and Lamu counties bordering Somalia, due to a risk of kidnapping and attacks.

Border with South Sudan and Ethiopia - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to Turkana and Marsabit counties, within 110 km of the borders with South Sudan and Ethiopia, due to armed banditry and cross-border violence.

Regional advisory - Avoid all travel

• within 50 km of the coast of Tana River County
• within 50 km of the coast of Kilifi County (from north of the city of Malindi to the Tana River County limits)

Neighbourhoods of Nairobi - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to the neighbourhoods of Eastleigh, Kibera and Pangani, in Nairobi, due to the high crime rate.

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There is a threat of terrorism. Credible information indicates that foreigners may be targeted by extremists in the following areas:

• the coastal areas of Kenya

There is an increased risk of terrorist attacks in the following counties:

Terrorist attacks have occurred:

• in the coastal region, including in Mombasa and Malindi
• in the Mandera, Wajir and Garissa counties, near the border with Somalia

Foreigners have been targeted in some attacks. Further attacks cannot be ruled out.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Be particularly alert during religious holidays, sporting events and public celebrations. Terrorists have carried out attacks during these events.

• Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places
• Stay at hotels that have robust security measures, but keep in mind that even the most secure locations cannot be considered completely free of risk

Areas bordering Somalia and portion of the Coast region

Kenya’s border with Somalia is closed, but it is porous and Somali militias and bandit groups have carried out cross-border attacks against foreigners and humanitarian workers in this region. Some incidents involved the use of improvised explosive devices and have resulted in injuries and deaths, including at the Dadaab refugee camp, 80 km from the Somali border. The risk of such attacks in the region remains high.

Disputes between Somali clans also make the region unstable and dangerous. There is an increased military and police presence and frequent roadblocks due to the Government of Kenya’s efforts to limit Somali incursions and gun-running in the border area.

There is also an increased risk of kidnapping in the northeastern Kenyan counties of Mandera, Wajir and Garissa bordering Somalia and the coastal areas of Lamu County. Groups based in Somalia and northeastern Kenya have targeted humanitarian workers, tourists and residents in the past and deaths have occurred.

Beachfront accommodations on the coastal area are vulnerable to criminal activity, such as armed robbery, break-ins and carjacking.

Areas bordering South Sudan and Ethiopia

There is an extreme threat of kidnapping, terrorism and cross-border violence in the northern counties of Marsabit and Turkana within 110 km of Ethiopia and South Sudan.

Neighbourhoods of Nairobi

Criminal activity remains high in several neighbourhoods and areas of Nairobi. Police capacity to respond to crime and other incidents is very limited.

Northern and Western Kenya

Some areas located in Turkana, Marsabit, Isiolo, Wajir and Mandera counties are considered unsafe. The ongoing threat posed by terrorism is joined by various regional, tribal or clan-based conflicts involving land, cattle and water. Consider using armed escorts when travelling within these counties; escorts can often be arranged through local police stations.

• Avoid venturing away from tourist areas
• Do not travel after dark

Tribal conflicts have occurred in the Mount Elgon area in the western counties of Trans-Nzoia and Bungoma. If you decide to travel to that region:

• Remain vigilant at all times
• Monitor local media

There is a high crime rate in most regions of Kenya, particularly in major cities such as Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu, and at coastal beach resorts. Traditionally, crimes increase in the weeks before Christmas.

Be aware that there have been incidents of “mob justice” in which a crowd lynches suspected criminals prior to the arrival of police.

Violent Crime

Carjacking, home invasions, kidnappings and robberies occur, including during daylight hours and in neighbourhoods normally considered safe.

Tourists have been the target of carjacking, robberies and kidnappings while travelling to or from the international airports in Nairobi and Mombasa.

• Only use transportation organized by reputable tour companies or well-marked taxis
• Be particularly vigilant if you are commuting alone

In Nairobi, exercise extreme caution in informal settlement communities, such as Kasarani, Kibera and Mathare, due to the high level of crime and limited capacity of police to respond to incidents.

The Old Town of Fort Jesus in Mombasa has a similar crime rate to other areas of the city during the day. However, there is a greatly increased risk of criminal activity at night, including robberies, attacks and other street crimes. Crime rates are also high on and around the Likoni Ferry (which links Mombasa and the southern resorts).

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times, particularly on roads linking a city centre to residential areas
• Do not walk outdoors at night, particularly in isolated areas
• Exercise caution while walking during daylight hours and if travelling after dark
• When confronted by robbers, comply and do not offer resistance

Petty Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs.

• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid showing signs of affluence or carrying large sums of money
• Ensure that your credit and debit cards, cash and any other financial resources are not all kept in the same place
• Store your belongings in safekeeping facilities
• Never leave your bags unsupervised at a ticket office or a registration desk
• When you leave your hotel room, ensure that the door is locked and the “do not disturb” sign is displayed

Thieves travelling on scooters or on foot have targeted the bags of car or scooter passengers.

• Keep your windows closed, doors locked and valuables out of reach and sight
• Be especially vigilant when stopped at traffic lights

Incidents of passport theft have occurred in the departure area of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi. There have also been cases where checked luggage has been pilfered.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all airports
• Store your valuables in locked hand-luggage
• Do not exchange currency in the public areas of the airport

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place regularly. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Curfews can be imposed without notice.

Always comply with the directives issued by local authorities.

Power outages 

Power outages occur regularly across the country. Blackouts may increase the risk of criminal activity in affected areas, which could in turn lead to opportunistic theft during prolonged outages.

Power outages could affect your ability to purchase basic necessisties and impact essential services, such as: 

• public transportation, including flights 
• medical services  
• water supply 
• telecommunications 

Not all buildings are equipped with generators.   

• Plan accordingly  
• Keep a supply of water, food and fuel on hand  
• Make sure you always have an emergency kit on hand
• Monitor local media for the latest updates

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Criminals have been known to impersonate hotel employees, police officers or government officials in attempts to get money from tourists.

If you are approached by someone claiming to be a government official or police officer and they fine you for an alleged offence, ask for an official government receipt.

Police officers are required to identify themselves. There is a complaint process through the Kenyan Police Service to investigate allegations of corruption and abuse.

Exercise caution if you are travelling to Kenya to meet someone with whom you have developed a relationship on the Internet (friendship, business or romance). Foreigners are often lured to Kenya, especially during the holiday season (Christmas and New Year), to meet their online contact in person. Once there, they become victims of crime. Some have lost thousands of dollars and some have been arrested for failing to pay debts accrued locally or exorbitant bills racked up as a result of scams.

Overseas fraud

Non-governmental organizations

Foreigners volunteering with local non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have sometimes reported incidents of fraud, threats and mistreatment by local personnel.

If you are contemplating volunteering with NGOs in Kenya, you should contact the National Bureau of NGOs before making any commitment and before departing Canada, to confirm that the organization you wish to work with is legitimate. All NGOs in Kenya are required by law to be registered with the National Council of NGOs, a self-regulating, non-partisan body.

National Bureau of NGOs

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse. Attacks involving sexual assault have occurred.

Advice for women travellers

Forced Marriages

Forced marriage affecting foreigners occur. It sometimes occurs without the affected person’s prior knowledge or consent.

General information and advice about forced marriage

Road travel

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country.

Major highways are generally in good condition but minor roads are poorly maintained. Drivers do not respect traffic laws, and drinking and driving is prevalent, especially at night.

Keep this in mind when planning travel by road, as driving at night can be risky. Excessive speeds, poorly maintained vehicles, poor lighting and inadequate signage pose hazards.

During the rainy season, some unpaved roads become impassable, even with four-wheel drive vehicles. You should drive defensively and always be aware of your surroundings.

Serious traffic delays are common. The road from Nairobi to Mombasa is particularly congested and can be dangerous for tourists unfamiliar with local driving conditions. You should travel by air or train if possible.

Use authorized border crossings when travelling by vehicle between Kenya and Tanzania.

Overland travel

Visitors travelling overland to certain game parks and reserves have been attacked by armed bandits. Exercise caution on the roads between the following regions due to attacks, robberies and vehicle hijackings:

• Malindi to Lamu
• Nairobi and the Amboseli, Masai Mara, Nakuru and Tsavo game parks/reserves
• Nairobi and the Mount Kenya/Aberdare area

Public transportation

Public transportation is unsafe.

Inter city buses

Long-distance buses have been involved in serious accidents.

Intra City travel

Local mini buses (matatus) and motorbike taxis (boda-bodas) are generally poorly maintained, recklessly driven and not adequately insured. Matatu hijackings and incidents of passengers being robbed have occurred.

Use reliable taxi companies, and confirm the fare in advance.

The Madaraka Express Railway line between Nairobi and Mombasa is reliable and safe. Other passenger train lines are not safe and are routinely late.

Local assistance

The Kenya Tourism Federation operates a 24-hour Safety and Communication Centre, which provides information on tourism and road conditions, and has information about regional assistance in an emergency.

Safety Centre  - Kenya Tourism Federation

National parks, safaris and reserves

Tourists have been victims of crime, sometimes involving violence, in national parks and reserves, as well as on safaris.

• Remain aware of your surroundings at all times
• Avoid camping alone or without expert local assistance

Wildlife viewing

Wildlife viewing poses risks, particularly on foot or at close range.

• Always maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife
• Only exit a vehicle when a professional guide or warden says it’s safe to do so
• Only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators
• Closely follow park regulations and wardens’ advice

Maritime transportation

The Likoni Ferry (from Mombasa to Likoni) is unsafe due to a combination of high crime rates, uncontrolled crowds, limited safety training, frequent breakdowns and inconsistent maintenance. Stampedes and overcrowding on the ferry have resulted in multiple injuries.

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report  - International Maritime Bureau

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from Kenyan authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Kenya.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required Transit visa: not required if you have a connecting flight and are not leaving the airport  Business visa: required Student visa: required Work Permit: required

As of January 1, 2024, tourists are required to apply and pay for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) prior to their travel. You can still use issued valid tourist visas until they expire.

You must obtain your visa or eTA online prior to your departure. Be sure to check the visa validity immediately after issuance.

If you don’t have a valid visa, you could be detained, taken to court and charged for being in Kenya illegally. You could be subject to a fine or deportation.

Useful links :

Apply for an eTA  – Government of Kenya Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority  – Government of Kenya eVisa  – Kenyan Department of Immigration Services

Visa extension

Kenyan Immigration authorities may extend your visa for one month at a time, for a maximum of three months. Each extension costs KSH 1000, and must be requested while the visa is still valid.

To extend your visa, contact immigration authorities once you are in the country.

You must pay all visa fees in exact cash and only in U.S. dollars, British pound sterling or euros. You can’t pay for a visa with a credit card.

There is no fee for visas for children under 16 years.

East African tourist visa

The East African Tourist Visa allows for multiple entries to Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.

This visa is valid for 90 days and cannot be extended.

You must obtain this visa from the authorities of the country that is your first entry point. If you plan to begin your trip in Kenya, you must obtain it from the High Commission for the Republic of Kenya or on arrival.

Work Permits

You must have a valid work permit to work or volunteer in Kenya. It is illegal to work or volunteer in Kenya with any other type of visa.

As a foreign worker in Kenya, you must carry the necessary work permits and documentation with you at all times, even when volunteering. Strict actions will be taken if you don’t comply, including deportation.

To obtain an electronic working permit, apply online with the Department of Immigration Services. You must visit the Kenya Immigration headquarters (Nyayo House in the Central Business District of Nairobi) after completing the online application to obtain your permit.

Apply for a work permit  - Kenyan Department of Immigration Services

NGO workers

Canadians planning to work or volunteer (including, temporarily or part-time) in Kenya for any period are required to have a work permit.

The National Council of NGOs can provide assistance in obtaining a work permit for individuals planning to work for a local NGO if contacted in advance.

If an employee moves from one organization to another, the first permit becomes void and the individual must apply for a new permit to work with the subsequent organization.

Consult with the NGO with whom you are planning to volunteer, as well as with the Kenya Immigration Foreign Nationals Services for full information and requirements.

More information about Kenyan work permits  - High commission of Kenya

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

The Kenyan authorities regularly carry out spot checks for proof of yellow fever vaccinations. Carry a copy of your proof of vaccination with you at all times.

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Polio: Advice for travellers - 6 May, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is recommended depending on your itinerary.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites .

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that   country entry requirements   may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest   diplomatic or consular office   of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

This destination is in the African Meningitis Belt, an area which has the highest rates of meningococcal disease in the world. Meningococcal disease is a serious and sometimes fatal infection. 

Travellers who are at higher risk should discuss vaccination with a health care provider. High-risk travellers include those living or working with the local population (e.g., health care workers) or those travelling to crowded areas or taking part in large gatherings.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country. Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

• Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
• One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

• visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
• visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and r ural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.

Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Rift Valley fever is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can be fatal. It is spread to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, from the bite of an infected mosquito, or eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from insect bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock, and unpasteurized dairy. There is no vaccine available for Rift Valley fever.

Visceral  leishmaniasis   (or kala azar) affects the bone marrow and internal organs. It is caused by a parasite spread through the bite of a female sandfly. It can also be transmitted by blood transfusion or sharing contaminated needles. If left untreated it can cause death. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from sandfly bites, which typically occur after sunset in rural and forested areas and in some urban centres. There is no vaccine or medication to protect against leishmaniasis.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by bacteria. People can get sick with anthrax if they come into contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. Anthrax can cause severe illness in both humans and animals. Travellers to areas where anthrax is common or where an outbreak is occurring in animals can get sick with anthrax if:

• they have contact with infected animal carcasses or eat meat from animals that were sick when slaughtered
• they handle animal parts, such as hides, wool or hair, or products made from those animal parts, such as animal hide drums.

If you are visiting these areas, do not eat raw or undercooked meat and avoid contact with livestock, wildlife, animal products, and animal carcasses.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Good medical facilities are available in Nairobi, but health-care standards in other parts of the country vary and can be very limited. Medical facilities may require proof of insurance or up-front payment before starting treatment.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Identification

You must carry photo identification or a copy of your passport at all times. Police and immigration officials have the right to demand proof of your identification, residency or valid visas. You should cooperate with authorities if you are asked for identification. Failure to present proof of residence or a valid visa to authorities when requested to do so could result in fines or arrest. Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it's lost or confiscated.

Volunteering

It is illegal to work or volunteer in Kenya without a valid work permit. Kenyan authorities strictly enforce this law. Convicted offenders could face heavy fines, jail sentences of up to five years and deportation.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences ranging from 10 years to life imprisonment and heavy fines. You could also face fines and jail time if you are convicted of being in a location where there are illegal drugs, even if they are not yours.

There are strict restrictions on the sale of alcoholic beverages and on consuming alcohol in public places.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Smoking is prohibited in all public places. Convicted offenders could pay heavy fines or face a jail sentence.

Possession of ivory or other banned wildlife items, even if purchased outside of Kenya, is strictly prohibited. Killing, buying, selling or trading any protected wild animal or any of its parts is illegal. Offenders can be arrested and given lengthy prison sentences and heavy fines.

Photography

Photography of government buildings, foreign embassies and missions (including the Canadian High Commission), airports, military facilities or other sensitive locations is prohibited and may lead to arrest or detention.

Illegal and restricted items

Plastic bags.

The use, manufacture or importation of plastic bags, including garbage bags and shopping bags, is illegal. Convicted offenders, including tourists, can face very heavy fines (up to USD 40,000), imprisonment for up to two years, or both.

Plastic bag ban

The recreational and commercial flying of drones is strictly regulated.

You must seek the permission from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority prior to your arrival. If you don't comply, you may be fined and your drone may be confiscated.

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drones) - Kenya Civil Aviation Authority

To carry firearms, you must obtain permission from local authorities prior to entering the country. Firearms are strictly forbidden in wildlife reserves and national parks.

Pornographic material

Possession of pornographic material is forbidden.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Kenyan law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Those convicted can face lengthy prison sentences.

Even though there are few convictions, 2SLGBTQI+ persons are routinely harassed by the police, and societal discrimination based on sexual orientation is widespread.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Kenya.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Kenya.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Kenya, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Kenya.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Kenya by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Kenya to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Traffic drives on the left.

While driving, drivers must always carry:

• a valid driver's licence
• vehicle registration documents
• proof of valid insurance
• a valid vehicle inspection certificate

These documents must be produced on demand by a police officer.

You must be at least 18 years old to drive a private motor vehicle in Kenya.

You may drive using a Canadian driver's licence for up to 90 days from the date of entry into Kenya.

An International Driving Permit is accepted, if presented with your original Canadian licence.

Residents of Kenya may apply for a Kenyan driver's licence with proof of a valid Canadian driver's licence.

If using a Canadian licence for any of the above cases, it must be in English or a certified translation must accompany it and be presented on demand.

Private motor vehicles must have 2 emergency triangles.

If you are stopped due to a traffic violation, the police officer may ask you to pay an on-the spot fine. Police, however, are not permitted to accept cash on the spot without issuing an official receipt. If you disagree with the traffic ticket, you have the right to ask for due process. The officer should provide you with information on when and where you can go to be properly charged, and then you may pursue that process.

International Driving Permit

Exercise common sense and discretion in your dress and behaviour, particularly in the coast region, where the majority of the population is Muslim.

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

The currency is the Kenyan shilling (KES).

ATMs are widely available.

Credit cards are widely accepted at major hotels, but not always in more remote locations.

Many banks and hotels exchange foreign currency. It is also possible to convert Kenyan shillings into foreign currency at the airport upon departure.

M-PESA is a common form of electronic funds transfer accepted across Kenya, including at national parks. National parks do not accept cash and generally accept credit cards, but at times, due to technical difficulties, only payment via M-PESA is accepted.

Travellers who import the equivalent of U.S. $5,000 or more must provide documentation stating the source and purpose of the funds.

Floods and landslides

In April and May 2024, heavy rainfall caused flooding and landslides and resulted in numerous casualties and damage to buildings and infrastructure.

Major flooding occured in multiple counties, including Nairobi.

The following essential services are disrupted in some areas:

• transportation
• power distribution
• telecommunication networks

Local authorities are working to restore essential services and to provide assistance to the affected population. Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for people in flood-prone areas.

If you're in or around an affected area:

• exercise caution
• monitor local news and weather reports
• confirm with local authorities that the chosen route is passable
• follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Latest weather warnings – Kenya Meteorological Department

Latest traffic alerts – Kenya National Highways Authority

Rainy seasons and droughts

Drought is the most prevalent natural hazard in Kenya affecting mainly the eastern, north eastern and coast area, as well as parts of the Rift Valley.

There are normally two rainy seasons in Kenya: from October to November, and from late March to mid-June. Seasonal flooding and mudslides can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

If you reside in or are travelling to affected areas:

• follow the advice of local authorities

Volcanoes and earthquakes

Natural disasters are possible due to regional volcanic and seismic activity. While there have not been any recent incidents, pay careful attention to all warnings issued.

Local services

There is no reliable centralized number to reach emergency services. Research and carry contact information for local police and medical facilities.

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Kenya, in Nairobi, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the  Emergency Watch and Response Centre  in Ottawa.

Burundi, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Uganda

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Kenya, in Nairobi, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Kenya overall due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime. Higher levels apply in some areas.

Kenya (PDF 885.66 KB)

Africa (PDF 1.68 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 999 or go to the nearest hospital.

Call 999 or visit the nearest police station.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Kenya overall.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Kenya overall due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime.

See Safety .

Do not travel to border regions with Somalia.

Do not travel to border regions with Somalia due to the high risk of terrorist attack and kidnapping,  including all of Mandera and Garissa counties and the part of Wajir county extending from the town of Wajir eastwards to the border with Somalia.

Reconsider your need to travel to border regions with South Sudan and Ethiopia (except Mandera County where we continue to advise Do Not Travel), Lamu County and  areas within Tana River and Kilifi Counties.

Reconsider your need to travel to South Sudan and Ethiopia (except Mandera County where we continue to advise Do Not Travel), Lamu County and areas within Tana River and Kilifi Counties, extending 50km inland in Tana River County, and 50km inland in Kilifi County north of the Galana-Sabaki River, due to the high risk of terrorist attack and kidnapping.

• Kenya can experience natural disasters and severe weather. Know the warning signs and safety measures for earthquakes, floods and tsunamis.
• Terrorist attacks are possible and could happen at any time, including in locations popular with foreigners and tourists. Be alert in public places. Avoid areas prone to attack.  Religious and festive holidays have historically seen an upsurge in terrorist activities and heightened threat warnings. Remain vigilant if visiting public areas.
• The borders with Somalia, Ethiopia and South Sudan are high-risk areas. Armed groups from Somalia kidnap and target foreigners in Kenya, particularly along the Somalia border region. If despite our advice you plan to travel to these areas, get professional security advice.
• Violent crime occurs, including carjackings, kidnapping and home invasions. Don't walk around after dark. If you live in Kenya, invest in strong personal security measures.
• Protests can be expected across Kenya.  Avoid protests and political gatherings. Follow the advice of local authorities. 
• Scams are common. Criminals often use fake police, hotel or government identification to extort money from travellers. Be wary of anyone asking for money or information, even if they seem official. 

Full travel advice: Safety

• Malaria is widespread, except in Nairobi and places higher than 2500 meters above sea level. Consider taking anti-malarial medication. Other insect-borne diseases including dengue, Rift Valley fever, filariasis and African sleeping sickness are common. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• Yellow Fever is widespread. Get Vaccinated before you travel and bring your vaccination certificate with you.
• HIV/AIDS infection rates are high. Take precautions if you're taking part in high-risk activities.
• You may be exposed to foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases include hepatitis, meningococcal disease, measles and cholera. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.

Full travel advice: Health

• It's illegal to work or volunteer without a valid work permit. To work in the charity sector, get a valid work permit through the Directorate of Immigration Services .
• Know and follow local laws. It's illegal to have same-sex relationships.
• It's illegal to take photos of official buildings, get advice before taking photos. It's also illegal to destroy the local currency, smoke outside designated areas, possess ivory, and use single-use plastic bags. 
• Kenya recognises dual nationality but hasn't fully enacted laws around it. If you're a dual national, always travel on your Australian passport.
• Foreign journalists seeking to work in Kenya must apply for accreditation through the Media Council of Kenya portal .

Full travel advice: Local laws

• You now need to apply online for an electronic travel authorisation prior to travel. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest high commission/embassy or consulate of Kenya for the latest details.
• If you have a valid visa, you can continue to travel using this visa until its expiry.
• If you enter Kenya with flu-like symptoms, you may need to take a COVID-19 test at your own expense. If your test is positive, you may need to isolate. For more information on COVID-19 travel requirements, see  Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority  website.
• If you're a foreign resident, always carry your alien identity card. You could be fined or detained if you don't. Carry your yellow fever vaccination certificate. You may need to show it to enter and leave the country.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Nairobi .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

There's an ongoing high threat of terrorist attacks in Kenya.

Terrorist group al-Shabaab continues to threaten attacks. Further attacks are possible and could happen at any time, including in areas popular with foreigners and tourists. Kenyan authorities remain on high alert.

Terrorist acts could include: 

• suicide bombings and shootings
• kidnappings
• roadside bomb attacks and improvised explosive devices
• attacks on civil aviation

Possible attack targets

An attack could happen anywhere in Kenya. An attack is possible at any time.

Areas prone to terrorist attack include:

• Coastal areas, including all of Lamu County, and areas of Tana River and Kilifi Counties, extending 65km inland in Tana River county and 50km inland in Kilifi county north of the Galana-Sabaki River
• Kenya's border regions with Somalia, Ethiopia and South Sudan, including all of Mandera and Garissa counties and the part of Wajir county extending from the town of Wajir eastwards to the border with Somalia

Terrorists may target:

• foreign embassies, UN premises and international schools
• hotels, tourist resorts, beaches and safari lodges
• shopping areas, markets, bars, nightclubs, restaurants and cafes
• places of worship
• offices of non-government organisations (NGOs) and government buildings , including educational institutions

Terrorists may also target transport and transport infrastructure such as:

• airports and commercial airlines
• transport hubs and infrastructure
• sea vessels in or near Kenyan ports

Foreign aid workers may be targeted at refugee camps near the Kenya-Somalia border.

Terrorist attacks have occurred in Kenya in the past few years,  including in Lamu, Mandera and Garissa counties.

Due to security concerns, Australian High Commission staff in Nairobi are on high alert.

Consider likely terrorist targets and the level of security provided. 

Always be alert to possible threats, especially in public places.

Report any suspicious items or activities to police.

To reduce your risks:

• take official warnings seriously
• monitor the media for threats
• follow the instructions of local authorities.

If there's a terrorist attack:

• leave the affected area immediately if it's safe to do so
• avoid the area afterwards in case of more attacks

Don't gather in groups after an attack. This also applies if you're evacuated from a building for security reasons, such as a bomb threat.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped while travelling overseas. Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are usually at lower risk.

Several active terrorist groups have the intent and capability to kidnap foreigners.  Armed groups from Somalia have kidnapped aid workers in the Somalia border region. Foreigners and residents in coastal resorts and towns in the North Eastern region (Mandera, Wajir and Garissa counties), as well as Lamu county, have been the target of kidnapping.

Kidnapping is a high threat in these regions for:

• humanitarian workers
• journalists

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations will be limited. To reduce the risk of kidnapping:

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone
• notify family or friends of planned travel and share your location
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs
• only use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn’t make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.

Civil unrest and political tension

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

Large demonstrations can happen in Kenya during and after international events or political changes.

Demonstrations resulting in violence and arrests have occurred because of:

• high food prices
• alleged corruption
• controversial media and tax law changes

Violent outbreaks are more common away from tourist areas. However, riots and clashes have happened in:

• other urban centres

During periods of unrest:

• be cautious throughout Kenya
• avoid large gatherings, protests and demonstrations
• monitor the media for reports about unrest
• avoid affected areas
• be aware authorities may order curfews in response to civil unrest at short notice
• follow instructions from local authorities.

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Crime is high in Kenya and  increases during holiday periods.

Incidents of  armed robbery , carjacking, kidnapping and muggings are possible in:

• Nairobi and other urban centres (e.g. Mombasa)
• some coastal regions, including all of Lamu County, and areas of Tana River and Kilifi Counties
• North Eastern region  (Mandera, Wajir and Garissa counties)
• Some parts of North Rift and Central Rift regions (Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia and Samburu counties)

Petty crime

Thieves snatch jewellery and bags from open vehicle windows, most often while cars are stopped at traffic lights or in heavy traffic.

Groups of bag-snatchers and carjackers on motorbikes target pedestrians and motorists.

Robberies also occur on trains and buses.

To protect yourself from theft:

• always keep vehicle doors locked, windows up and valuables out of sight, even when moving
• secure your accommodation, even when you're in it
• avoid walking after dark
• avoid walking in isolated back-alleys and lanes.

Violent crime

Violent crimes include:

• armed carjackings
• home invasions

Foreigners have been targeted in private homes in Nairobi, tourist areas and while travelling by road. Several incidents have occurred at night outside residential security gates.

Violent crime is particularly common in the Nairobi suburbs of Eastleigh and Kibera. Take extra precautions in these areas.

If you're living in Kenya, invest in strong personal security measures. Regularly review your personal security arrangements.

Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.

Police regularly confront criminal suspects in public places. Random gunfire has killed or wounded bystanders in crowded areas.

Due to widespread HIV/AIDS, if you're a victim of violent crime such as rape , visit a doctor immediately.

Food and drink spiking

Some criminals target foreigners with food and drink spiking. Their motivations can be for assault, including sexual assault, and theft.

To protect yourself:

• never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers
• be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances
• Partying safely

Crime in outlying areas

Incidents involving banditry and cattle rustling can occur in North and Central Rift regions (Turkana, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, Laikipia and Samburu counties).

Clashes between local groups have occurred in the Mount Elgon region in western Uganda.

The region bordering Somalia is extremely dangerous.

Curfews and security operations can be instituted without prior notice in the North Rift and parts of Central Rift regions.

If you plan to travel to these areas  get up-to-date advice on security and other conditions from your tour operator before you travel.  Monitor the media for latest developments, maintain a high level of vigilance and leave restricted areas as soon as possible.

Scams and fraud

Scams  are common. Criminals often use fake police, hotel, government and other identification to extort money from travellers.

• be wary of demands for money or personal information, including from people claiming to be police or officials. Always ask for and carefully check identification
• be wary of fake bank notes in circulation

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

National parks and game reserves

Crime occurs Kenya's national parks and conservation areas but rarely serious.

If you plan to visit national parks or game reserves:

• get local advice on security risks, park fees and other conditions before you travel
• get recommendations on travel firms and guides from the Kenya Association of Tour Operators (KATO)
• only use registered tour operators with a good reputation
• respect local wildlife laws and maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife
• follow all park regulations and instructions from local authorities and park wardens

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities, such as diving.

If you plan to do an adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers the activity
• use registered tour operators with a good reputation
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts.

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Information on tourism, road conditions and emergency regional assistance is available from the Kenya Tourism Federation  Safety and Communication Centre . Phone:  +254 (0)722 074 564 5 or +254 (0) 738 617 499

Climate and natural disasters

Kenya can experience natural disasters and severe weather , including:

• flash flooding
• earthquakes
• volcanic activity

If a natural disaster occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• monitor local media and other sources such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• follow the advice of local authorities
• keep in contact with your friends and family.

Kenya traditionally has two rainy seasons, from March to June, and October to November. Flash flooding and mudslides are common. Roads may close. Expect delays when travelling in these areas.

Northern and eastern Kenya often experiences drought. Essential services in these areas may be affected during these times. Expect delays when travelling in these areas.

Earthquakes and volcanoes

Kenya lies on a fault line, and sometimes experiences earthquakes and tremors.

Volcanic activity and earthquakes can happen near Mt Elgon on the Kenya-Uganda border.

Get to know earthquake safety measures for each place you stay.

Tsunamis can occur in Kenya's coastal areas.

To receive tsunami alerts, register with the Global Disaster Alert and Co-ordination System .

Move to high ground right away if local or regional authorities tell you to, or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings. Once on high ground, monitor local media.

Travel Insurance

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need.

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Kenya. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Yellow fever is widespread in Kenya. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel and take your yellow fever vaccination certificate with you to Kenya. 

Malaria is widespread except in Nairobi and at altitudes above 2500m.

Other insect-borne diseases occur, such as: 

• Dengue virus infection
• Rift Valley fever
• Lymphatic  filariasis
• African sleeping sickness

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medication to prevent malaria

Visit a doctor if you develop either a fever, muscle pain, a rash or a bad headache.

HIV/AIDS infection rates are very high.

Take precautions if taking part in activities that put you at risk of infection.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• meningococcal disease
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks occur from time to time.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facility standards vary. Medical facilities are adequate in urban areas but may be extremely limited in other places.

Before receiving treatment, public and private facilities need:

• an up-front payment, or
• a payment guarantee, or
• medical insurance confirmation

If you become seriously ill or injured in a remote area, you'll need to be evacuated to a major city. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

There's a decompression chamber at the Kenyan Naval Base in Mombasa.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences can be severe and include long jail terms.

Carrying or using drugs

Commercial surrogacy

Get legal advice in Australia and Kenya before going to Kenya for commercial surrogacy arrangements.

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Going overseas to adopt

LGBTQIA+ travellers

Kenyan law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Those convicted can face lengthy prison sentences.

Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

In Kenya it's illegal to:

• work or volunteer without a valid work permit
• destroy local currency
• smoke in public places outside designated smoking areas
• take photos of official buildings — get advice before taking photos
• possess ivory
• distribute religious material in public without a licence.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws apply overseas. If you commit these offences, you may be prosecuted in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Kenya recognises dual nationality. However, Kenya has not yet fully enacted dual nationality laws.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

Dual nationals

Local customs

Kenya has conservative dress and behaviour standards, especially in coastal and rural areas. You should dress modestly; wear loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders, knees, midriff, chest and back. Take care not to offend.

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan  is observed in Kenya. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time. Muslims don't eat, drink or smoke between sunrise and sunset during Ramadan.   If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Public displays of affection can lead to harassment, particularly for same-sex couples.

• Going overseas for major events

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Kenya became a visa-free country in January 2024. However, you'll need to apply online  and pay for an  Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)  prior to arrival.  Check the Kenya Ministry of immigration on categories of persons exempted from applying for the ETA.

If you already have a valid visa, you can continue to travel using this visa until its expiry.

For Kenyan visa and permit information, visit the  ETA Kenya  and  Kenya Civil Aviation Authority websites.  

Entry and exit requirements can change at short notice. Contact the  Kenyan High Commission  for details about ETAs, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

If you enter Kenya with flu-like symptoms, you may need to take a COVID-19 test at your own expense. If your test is positive, you may need to isolate. For more information on COVID-19 travel requirements see:  Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority .

Other formalities

Yellow fever vaccination.

You'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Kenya. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever .

• Yellow fever - African Region (WHO)
• Kenyan Airports: Kenya Airports Authority

Import and export restrictions

Kenya has strict laws about importing or exporting certain goods, including:

• religious materials and antiquities
• business equipment

Kenyan High Commission in Australia

Identity card for foreigners

If you're a foreign resident, always carry your alien identity card. If you don't, you could be fined or jailed.

Working in Kenya

It's illegal to work without a valid visa. Authorities can fine or jail you for paid or voluntary  work.

To work in the charity sector, get a valid work permit through the Charity Register. 

Foreign journalists seeking to work in Kenya are required to apply for accreditation through the Media Council of Kenya portal .

Living or working overseas

To enter Kenya, your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date you arrive and at least two blank pages. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over. 

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy, high commission or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  Kenyan High Commission  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:   

• LGBTQIA+ travellers  

The local currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES). 

• Kenya Shilling banknotes (Central Bank)

Declare all amounts over US$10,000 when you arrive and depart. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

Large banks and foreign exchange bureaus accept traveller's cheques. Hotels don't often accept them.

ATMs in Nairobi and major towns accept international credit cards.

Take care when paying with credit cards or using ATMs. Card skimming incidents are increasing. Only use ATMs at large shopping centres or in banks. Check the machine for unusual parts before you use it. Always keep your card in sight during transactions.

Ask your bank if your cards will work in Kenya.

Local travel

Driving permit.

To drive in Kenya, you'll need both:

• a valid Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Get your IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

Kenya records thousands of road fatalities each year. You're more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident in Kenya than in Australia.

Hazards include:

• poor road conditions
• unsafe and poorly maintained vehicles
• not enough street lighting

Before you drive:

• get to know local traffic laws and practices
• check local information on road conditions, including security risks and road closures
• avoid travel at night on major highways in and out of Nairobi and on rural roads

Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check if your travel insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike or similar vehicle. 

Always wear a helmet.

Only use established and reputable taxis and limousine services. Arrange these through your hotel.

Only use taxis from official taxi stands or via callout.

When travelling at night to and from Nairobi's airports (JKIA and Wilson), always use a tour or taxi company with a good reputation.

Public transport

Public transport options such as buses and minivans ('matatus') are dangerous.

Bus terminals and other transport hubs have been targeted in terrorist and criminal attacks. There are risks of further attacks.

Theft is common on many train routes. Passengers' belongings have been taken from their compartments. Watch your belongings at all times.

Boat travel

If you travel in Kenyan waters:

• first check the International Maritime Bureau's piracy reports
• arrange personal security measures
• be alert to threats

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Kenya's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Check the Consular Services Charter to find out what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Nairobi.

Australian High Commission, Nairobi

Limuru Road, Rosslyn  Nairobi, Kenya

Phone: (+254) 20 4277 100

Website: kenya.highcommission.gov.au Facebook: Australia in East Africa   X: @AusHCKenya

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Kenya Traveler View

Due to heavy rainfall, Kenya is experiencing significant flooding in most counties; the Maasai Mara and Great Rift Valley regions are most affected. Travel by land may be dangerous in flood zones, and the healthcare infrastructure has been damaged in many of these areas. There may be an increased risk of waterborne and vector-borne diseases, including cholera, other diarrheal diseases, and malaria.

Avoid contact with floodwater , as it may contain harmful germs, other contaminants, or sharp objects; it may also conduct electricity from downed power lines. For your safety, follow all instructions from local authorities. Check the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in Kenya  website for alerts. Consider enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates and information about emergency assistance.

Travel Health Notices

Vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Kenya. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 2 Practice Enhanced Precautions

• Global Polio May 23, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

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Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Chikungunya

There has been evidence of chikungunya virus transmission in Kenya within the last 5 years. Chikungunya vaccination may be considered for the following travelers:

• People aged 65 years or older, especially those with underlying medical conditions, who may spend at least 2 weeks (cumulative time) in indoor or outdoor areas where mosquitoes are present in Kenya, OR
• People planning to stay in Kenya for a cumulative period of 6 months or more

Chikungunya - CDC Yellow Book

Areas of active cholera transmission are  localized  to to the counties of Busia (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Garissa (last case reported 6-9 months ago), Homa Bay (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Isiolo (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Kajiado (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Kiambu (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Kirinyaga (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Kisumu (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Kwale (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Lamu (last case reported 3-6 months ago), Machakos (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Mandera (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Marsabit (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Meru (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Migori (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Mombasa (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Nairobi (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Nakuru (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Samburu (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Siaya (last case reported 9-12 months ago), Tana River (last case reported 3-6 months ago), and Wajir (last case reported 9-12 months ago) in Kenya. Cholera is rare in travelers.  Certain factors  may increase the risk of getting cholera or having severe disease ( more information ). Avoiding unsafe food and water and washing your hands can also help prevent cholera.

Vaccination may be considered for children and adults who are traveling to areas of active cholera transmission.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Kenya.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Kenya. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Kenya.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of Kenya take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Kenya.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

Recommended for travelers 2 months old or older traveling to  areas of Kenya  that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season.

Meningococcal disease - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis Belt Map

In Kenya poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Kenya are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Kenya who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Dogs infected with rabies are commonly found in Kenya.

Rabies is also present in some terrestrial wildlife species.

If rabies exposures occur while in Kenya, rabies vaccines may only be available in larger suburban/urban medical facilities.

Rabies pre-exposure vaccination considerations include whether travelers 1) will be performing occupational or recreational activities that increase risk for exposure to potentially rabid animals and 2) might have difficulty getting prompt access to safe post-exposure prophylaxis.

Please consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether you should receive pre-exposure vaccination before travel.

For more information, see country rabies status assessments .

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥1 year old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old except as follows. Generally not recommended for travel limited to: the city of Nairobi (the capital); the counties of the former North Eastern Province (Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa); or the counties (except Taita-Taveta) of the former Coast Province (Kilifi, including the city of Malindi; Kwale; Lamu; Mombasa, including the city of Mombasa; Tana River) .

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

• Mosquito bite

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite
• Avoid animals

Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever

• Touching infected animals (including bats and primates) or their body fluids
• Touching body fluids (blood or sweat) from an infected person
• Touching objects contaminated with the body fluids of a person infected with Ebola or Marburg virus
• Avoid sick people
• Avoid animals and areas where they live

Marburg virus

Rift Valley Fever

• Touching blood, body fluids, or tissue of infected livestock

Rift Valley fever

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Kenya, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Kenya. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Kenya include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Kenya. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Kenya’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Kenya. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Kenya may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Kenya, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Kenya, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Kenya .

Traffic flows on the left side of the road in Kenya.

• Always pay close attention to the flow of traffic, especially when crossing the street.
• LOOK RIGHT for approaching traffic.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Kenya for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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International Citizens Group

Resources for International Citizens and Expatriates

Moving To Kenya: What You Need to Know

An Expat’s Guide To Moving to Kenya

For many expats, Kenya has it all. With a combination of mountains, shorelines, and cities, the country would be irresistible even if it wasn’t home to some of the best wildlife on earth. Kenya is a medium-sized country with a large population. More than 51 million people live there. It’s also home to dozens of different ethnic communities, each of which has its own language and customs. For expats moving to Kenya , there is a lot to figure out before they make the leap to their new country. Sorting out visa requirements, opening a bank account, and finding a job, are some of the important considerations for anyone relocating to Kenya.

Visa Requirements in Kenya

Anyone staying in Kenya for more than three months can only do so with a work and residence permit obtained before arriving in the country.

Class D work visas are the most common kind of visas for expats looking to move to Kenya. Class D covers intra-company transfers and humanitarian workers.  As well, all specific employment by a specific employer falls under the category of Class D. The typical approval time for a Class D visa is 2-4 months so be sure to apply early. You can also expect to pay 10,000 Kenyan Shilling.

Other common visa types include Class I work visas (formerly known as class E), which apply to foreign missionaries. Class K visas apply to independently wealthy foreigners who are able to prove sufficient income.

Read: Work Visas in Kenya

Learning the Language

It’s not necessary to know Swahili in order to live and work in Kenya. English is the country’s second language, especially in cities. However, taking Swahili lessons will go a long way towards cementing friendships, bonding with colleagues, and traveling with ease in rural areas.

Finding A Job When Moving to Kenya

Kenya’s leading industries include tourism, banking, and IT. Kenya is also the most significant hub in East Africa for finance and communication. Expats are working in these fields and many more, including infrastructure, agriculture, energy, education, aid management, grant management, and wildlife management.

The majority of expats come to Kenya by being sponsored by a company. It’s extremely challenging to face the immigration-related bureaucracy on your own.

Understanding the Cost of Living

The most significant expense in any expat’s budget is accommodations. While the cost of living in Kenya isn’t particularly high, accommodations and imported consumer goods are expensive.

On average, expats can expect to spend at least a third of their budget on housing. Many expats in Nairobi find it well worth spending extra to live close to their workplace, given the city’s notorious traffic. Following accommodations, tuition fees for international schools are usually the second largest expense for expats in Kenya. Utilities for water, electricity, fuel, phone services, and the internet also add up.

By contrast, local produce and services such as tailoring and carpentry are usually quite affordable.

Finding A Place To Live

The majority of expats moving to Kenya do so to settle in a major city like Nairobi or Mombasa. Both cities contain stark inequality, with gleaming suburbs sharing space with despondent slums.

Expats favor neighborhoods on the outskirts of Nairobi, including Lavington, Kitisuru, Karen, Runda, Gigiri, Muthaiga, Spring Valley, and Lang’ata. Before signing a lease, you should ask if your costs include security. Most expats choose housing that comes with either a sophisticated alarm system or with onsite overnight security guards known as askari. Other common services to inquire about our water storage tanks, backup generators in case of power shortages, and air conditioning. The temperature regularly creeps up to 40 degrees Celsius in the cities. Air conditioning definitely matters!

Understanding Kenya’s Healthcare System

Healthcare in Kenya is provided by a mix of public, private, and charitable clinics, hospitals, and services. The first point of contact for patients is usually a dispensary. Dispensaries are managed by registered nurses. They provide outpatient services for simple concerns like skin conditions, the common cold, and even uncomplicated cases of malaria.

For cases beyond the scope of the dispensaries, the health center is the next stop. Health centers are medium-sized units that cater to a population of about 80,000 people. They’re staffed by administrators, nurses, and other medical personnel such as nutritionists, pharmacists, and laboratory technicians. Doctors rarely work at health centers. Instead, they work in country and district hospitals in Kenya where more specialized care is offered.

Public healthcare in Kenya is average at best and the majority of expats and foreign residents opt to visit private facilities. Private hospitals and clinics offer faster waiting times and more comfortable, private accommodations.

Read: Health Insurance in Kenya

Finding Schools and Socializing in Kenya

It’s always stressful to find the right school for your child and it’s no different for expats in Kenya. Kenya’s education system is based on the 8-4-4 model. The students go through a compulsory basic education for the first 8 years, then through secondary education for the next 4, and then through 4 years of undergraduate school.

Nairobi’s Westlands and Karen neighborhoods are well known for their good schools, many of which follow the British, German, and French education systems. As well, the International School of Kenya and the Rosslyn Academy (both in Westlands) teach children according to American and Canadian curriculums.

For adult connections, many expats in Kenya join a country club. In general, social organizations like this are more affordable than they are in other countries and are a popular way to connect with other foreigners. Others form new connections by volunteering with one of the many international non-governmental organizations set up in Kenya.

Using Credit Cards or Cash in Kenya

Kenya’s official currency is the Kenyan Shilling. As well, currency from the United States and Great Britain – and to a lesser extent South Africa and the European Union – is often accepted at tourist-oriented restaurants and services. However, long-term visitors and new residents are best off to exchange their foreign funds at a bank, where they’ll find the best available rates.

While ATMs are widespread and credit cards are accepted at all major businesses (and many small ones too), cash is still king in Kenya. It allows for quick and easy transactions at tiny businesses, like roadside food stalls. Cash also gives residents the most flexibility because credit card terminals are notorious for their inconsistent service.

Visa is the most commonly accepted credit card, followed closely by Mastercard. American Express is accepted primarily by international chains and tourist-oriented services. Discover Card is all but unknown.

Setting Up A Bank Account When You Move to Kenya

Most major banks in Kenya offer financial services to non-citizens. Depending on the bank, you may be required to prove your home address, that you have a Kenyan mobile phone number, or that you hold a “KRA” PIN. The KRA proves you’re registered to pay your taxes. In some cases, the services of an ‘introducer’ might be required in order to open a bank account. An introducer is someone who already has a bank account with the branch and is willing to vouch for your good character.

Opening a bank account in Kenya is usually a multi-step process. You first visit your local branch to make an appointment. Then you return to your appointment with the required supporting paperwork. Assuming all goes well, you’ll return a final time to collect your new bank card and set a PIN for use at the ATM. International brands such as Barclays and Standard Chartered have a strong presence in Kenya. The process of opening a local bank account might go more smoothly if you are already a customer of the bank in your home country.

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• Immigration

Kenya’s Visa-Free Travel: Guide to Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

Key Takeaways:

• Kenya is now visa-free but requires an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) instead, costing $34 per visitor.
• ETA applications must be submitted on the official website at least 3 days prior to departure.
• Required documents include a valid passport, selfie/passport photo, contact information, itinerary, accommodation confirmation, and payment information.

Pack your bags and prepare for an adventure in the heart of Africa, as Kenya welcomes the world with open arms and no visa requirement! That’s right, as of December 2023, this enchanting land of sprawling savannas, majestic wildlife, and vibrant cultures has removed the visa hurdle, making it easier than ever for globe-trotters to explore its wonders. President William Ruto declared a new era for Kenya’s tourism on independence day, uplifting travelers with the promise of hassle-free entry.

But hold your excitement for just a moment, explorers! While the visa has been given the boot, there’s still a bit of planning to do before you can dance with the Maasai or gaze upon the great migration. Kenya has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system, ensuring that your entry is just a few clicks away. Here’s the scoop on how to secure your ETA, what it costs, and the simple steps to ensure your journey to Kenya is as smooth as your safari ride. Read on to learn about this innovative system designed to keep Kenya’s borders as welcoming as its people, while adding a layer of digital convenience to your travel checklist.

Kenya Introduces Visa-Free Entry and Electronic Travel Authorization

Kenya has paved the way in Africa for easier travel by eliminating the requirement for traditional visas. Instead, all international travelers planning to visit Kenya are now required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Here’s what you need to know about the new process and the associated cost.

Kenya’s Revolutionary Visa-Free Announcement

December 12, 2023, marked a significant change in Kenya’s travel policy. On this day, coinciding with Kenya’s independence day, President William Ruto declared the country visa-free for global visitors in a historic move. “It shall no longer be necessary for any person from any corner of the globe to carry the burden of applying for a visa to come to Kenya,” said Kenyan President William Ruto.

Obtaining Your ETA for Kenya

Though the visa requirement has been waived, travelers must still acquire an ETA. Previously, a single-entry visa for U.S. citizens cost $50. Now, instead of this visa, you’ll need to secure the electronic authorization before entering the country.

Also of Interest:

150 kyrgyzstan students arrive in india amid violence, outrage as uk-born baby faces shocking deportation over student visa crackdown, here’s how you can apply for the eta:.

• Application : Complete an online application.
• Information Needed : Provide your personal, travel, and accommodation details.
• Processing and Approval : Wait for the approval of your ETA.

For further details on the ETA application process or to proceed with applying, visit the official Kenyan immigration website where you can find comprehensive resources and guidance.

It is essential for travelers to understand that while the process has been simplified with the removal of the visa requirement, the ETA is a mandatory document for entry into Kenya. Ensure you have your Electronic Travel Authorization sorted before planning your trip to experience the beauty and diversity of Kenya hassle-free.

Applying for an ETA to Enter Kenya: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Starting from January 2024, if you’re an international traveler planning a trip to Kenya, obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) becomes a crucial step in your travel preparations.

Understanding the ETA Process

The ETA is a semi-automated system designed to vet and predetermine your eligibility for entering Kenya. The essence of the ETA is to facilitate smoother entry at Kenyan borders for international visitors. This mandatory requirement comes with a fee of $34, which is applicable to each traveler, regardless of age – yes, this includes the little ones too!

When to Apply for Your ETA

Your travel checklist should include the ETA application as a top priority. Make sure you apply:

• At least 72 hours in advance of your travel date
• You can plan ahead and apply anytime within three months before your trip

The approval grants you authorization for one entry into Kenya, tied specifically to the flight details and travel dates you provided.

What You Will Need

Before you visit Kenya’s official ETA website , ensure you have the following ready:

• A valid passport with an expiration date at least six months beyond your intended stay, and with one blank page available
• A recent selfie or passport photo ready to upload
• Your contact information , including a current email address and phone number
• Complete itinerary details , encompassing arrival and departure times
• Proof of accommodations , such as hotel booking confirmations
• Suitable payment method like a credit or debit card

For those visiting family or friends, you’ll need to provide the passport or ID card number of your host. Business travelers should have an invitation letter from the Kenyan company they intend to visit.

Completing the Application

The application process is done entirely online through the official ETA website for Kenya . Here’s how it goes:

• Fill out the ETA form with accurate personal and travel-related information.
• Pay the $34 fee via your preferred method.
• Await two emails: one confirming your application and payment, and another within three working days advising on the approval status.

Upon Approval

If your ETA is approved, you’re almost set for your Kenyan adventure! Do remember to:

• Print out the PDF attachment from your approval email.
• Alternatively, have a screenshot available on your mobile device.

This document is essential and will be required when you arrive at and depart from Kenyan points of entry.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth start to your Kenyan travel experience. Remember, maintaining up-to-date information and complying with the official process is key to hassle-free entry into the country.

Kenya Welcomes the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) System

Kenya has taken a significant step towards boosting tourism by streamlining visa processes with an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. John Chirchir, the CEO of the Kenya Tourism Board, expressed optimism regarding this modern approach to welcoming travelers:

“Our message to visitors is ‘Karibu Nyumbani,’ meaning ‘welcome home’, and with the ETA, we aim to make the entry into Kenya as welcoming and home-like as possible.”

Streamlining Immigration Procedures

The motivation behind implementing the ETA is multifaceted:

• Transition from paper-based to digital processes
• Efficient data collection on travelers entering Kenya

By adopting the ETA, Kenya joins a group of nations that already have or are introducing similar electronic systems, including countries across Europe and North America, as noted by Julius Bitok, the principal secretary of Kenya’s Immigration and Citizen Services.

Challenges and Enhancements

The transition to a digital system has not been without its challenges. Sector experts have critiqued the ETA, labeling it as a repackaged visa system. Initial technical issues, such as website crashes and traveler confusion, also marred its launch.

Nevertheless, Kenya is committed to refining the ETA system. The Directorate of Immigration Services’ director general, Evelyn Cheluget, conveyed the government’s dedication to addressing such challenges:

“We are listening to feedback, and have simplified the process, reducing the number of form questions that were causing stress to applicants.”

A Message of Openness

The introduction of the ETA is not just about easing travel; it also symbolizes Kenya’s openness to the world. As John Chirchir points out:

“Easing travel requirements puts Kenya on a level playing field internationally. It sends a positive message about our nation’s friendliness and openness towards visitors and investors alike.”

For more information about traveling to Kenya and the ETA system, please visit the official Kenyan immigration website .

By modernizing entry procedures, Kenya is enhancing the traveler experience while making strides towards a more welcoming, efficient, and competitive destination on the global stage.

Experience the Wonders of Kenya in 2024

Discover the Beauty of East Africa Kenya is beckoning travelers with its easier entry procedures, as highlighted by President Ruto in his December speech. Anticipating a surge in tourism, Kenya is making strides to welcome visitors with open arms. Renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity, this East African jewel offers an array of attractions:

• Wildlife Galore : Home to 22 national parks, 28 national reserves, 5 national sanctuaries, and numerous community conservancies.
• Spectacular Beaches : Pristine sands lapped by azure waters.
• Adventurous Outdoors : Unmatched opportunities for exploration and adventure.
• Cultural Immersion : Deep dive into the diverse cultural heritage and traditions.
• Culinary Delights : Taste the unique flavors of Kenyan cuisine.

New and Revitalized Accommodations Kenya is not only enhancing the visitor experience through improved entry processes but also through the expansion of its accommodation landscape. Some notable additions and renovations include:

• Angama Amboseli : This newcomer from the visionaries behind Angama Mara offers 10 luxurious tents in the Kimana Sanctuary—ideal for encounters with “super tusker” elephants and vistas of Mount Kilimanjaro.
• JW Marriott Masai Mara Safari Lodge : Launched just last year, this lodge features 20 lavish tents equipped with wellness amenities and Canon EOS cameras for capturing wildlife on safari—yes, your Bonvoy points are welcome.
• Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club : Freshly refurbished, situated at the base of Kenya’s tallest peak, with 100 rooms and suites. Activities range from hiking and horseback riding to visiting an animal orphanage.

Lamu Island: A Must-Visit Destination Recognized by AFAR as a top destination for 2024, Lamu Island enchants with its Swahili-style architecture and timeless charm. The Jannah, a creation of artist Anna Trzebinski, invites guests to indulge in one of three full-service suites and enjoy sunset sails on traditional hardwood dhow boats.

Prepare for Your Kenyan Adventure Before embarking on your journey, be sure to check the official immigration resources for the latest travel advice and entry requirements for Kenya:

• Kenya Immigration Services : Official Kenya Immigration Services Website
• Travel Updates and Advisories : Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife Kenya

Embrace the opportunity to explore Kenya’s wonders in 2024, where nature’s splendor meets cultural richness, all easily accessible thanks to the country’s welcoming spirit and effortless entry.

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Kenya for Digital Nomads: A Quick Guide

• Conor Walsh
• Last Updated: August 21, 2023

Kenya has quickly become the top destination for digital nomads in Africa for its unique blend of white sand beaches, abundant national parks, and vibrant capital city – Nairobi.

Of course, it helps that Kenya has the best Wi-Fi in East Africa . You’ll never struggle to stay connected while you’re here. 

But Kenya a few things about traveling here might surprise you – like the cost of living. 

So, in this quick guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about working remotely and traveling Kenya as a digital nomad.

The #1 community for nomads in Africa

Looking for the latest, most honest tips on remote working and traveling in Africa? Our free community of 2,500+ Africa fanatics has decades of experience on the continent. We’ve been traveling here since before Wi-Fi even existed. 

From Cape Town or Casablanca, we’ve got everything you need for an unforgettable trip: 

• Up-to-date tips on every African country you can think of.
• Honest, independent recommendations for colivings, coworkings, tour companies, and much more.
• Organise meetups and make friends on the road.

Quick Tips About Kenya

There is no Visa-On-Arrival in Kenya. You have to apply for a visa online in advance. Do so at least two weeks before your arrival date in case of delays.  

Kenya is part of the East Africa Tourist Visa, a combined 90-day visa for Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.

Kenya has over 40 National Parks (including marine parks). The Masai Mara is the most famous for hosting the Big 5 animals and the annual wildebeest migration, but Amboseli is probably the best.

Nairobi National Park is the only national park located within a city. You can visit it from Nairobi for a half-day.

Get a SIM card from Safaricom to use M-Pesa mobile money – a convenient payment technology on your phone used by every business in Kenya.

Crime is an issue in Kenyan cities at night – especially Nairobi. Don’t walk alone, and use Uber whenever possible.

Kenya is huge, so if you’re traveling far, fly or use the train (where available). Driving is dangerous, long, and can be exhausting.

Kenya is not a budget travel destination. Safaris are expensive if you’re traveling alone and paying tourist rates. The cost of living for digital nomads in Nairobi is equivalent to many European cities. The coast is cheaper and much better value.

Tours and Activities

The Travelling Wakili Tours

Pioneering inclusive and safe travel experiences for women and queer folk across Africa, with a focus on sustainability, equity, and diverse cultural immersion.

Melanin Travels Magic

Black-owned travel agency helping you craft unforgettable experiences across Africa.

Nai Nami Nairobi City Tours

Explore Nairobi with a team of former street kids, and see a different side to life in the city. Finish your dat with a local lunch at a popular street vendor.

Coliving Spaces and Digital Nomad Retreats

Kenya is home to a growing number of coliving spaces and retreats occurring throughout the year. Most of them are located on the coast, and offer a fantastic opportunity to explore its best beaches, kite surfing, and Swahili heritage in the company of fellow nomads. 

Skippers coliving , Diani –  Coliving and kitesurfing in Kenya’s top beach destination! Comfortable rooms, a private pool, fantastic hosts, endless activities, motorbike rentals, and much more. 

Remote Year coliving,  Nairobi –  The Kenya chapter of the global retreats brand offers month-long stays in the heart of Nairobi. You’ll be walking distance to the best nightlife and restaurants, staying with amazing nomads from across the globe, and spending your weekends exploring Kenya together. 

Africa Nomads retreats , Lamu –  Month-long retreats on the oldest Swahili settlement in East Africa. Lamu is a tiny island at the Northern tip of Kenya and feels like a completely different country to the mainland. There’s no cars, no nightlife, just an idyllic slice of island life.

Coworking Spaces

Read More >>> The Best Coworking Spaces in Nairobi .

Pallet Cafe Diani

Beachfront restaurant with an excluded coworking area. Take a break with a swim in the Indian Ocean, kite surfing lesson, or sumptuous lunch.

[More Coming Soon….]

Destinations

With its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Diani Beach is a perfect spot for relaxation, water sports, and dolphin watching

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Lamu has a unique blend of Swahili, Arabic, Persian, and Indian influences, evident in its architecture and culture.

• Watamu – Pristine white sand beaches dotted with dramatic coral features, a marine park, and the nearby Gede ruins.
• Nanyuki – Sits at the foot of Mt. Kenya, so it’s popular with trekkers and mountain climbers. There are also plenty of ranches and forest reserves set in beautiful landscapes that are great for an escape.
• Mombasa & Nyali – Kenya’s main port is mostly over-hyped. It’s a busy, congested city with unimpressive beaches and little character. Nyali, to the north, is a slightly nicer suburb.

Laptop-friendly cafes

Nairobi has thousands of laptop-friendly cafes, with plug sockets, comfortable chairs, and reliable internet. You can’t walk into a Java , Artcaffe , or CJ’s and miss seeing someone typing away on their laptops. 

On the coast, it’s hit and miss. Diani, Mombasa, Nyali have plenty of places to work. Kilifi and Watamu very few. Lamu basically has none (another reason we love it!).

Internet in Kenya

Kenya wouldn’t be the start-up and tech hub of East Africa if you struggled to find good internet here. 

Generally speaking , you’ll enjoy reliable and fast Wi-Fi connections in most towns and hotels. In more remote areas, your phone’s 4G+ will back you up. 

If you can’t find either reliable Wi-Fi or solid 4G+ coverage, you’re probably somewhere that you shouldn’t be working anyway, like a national park or secluded island. 

Embrace it, switch off, and relax. (But also plan ahead for this possibility)

4G+ Providers

Safaricom has the most reliable and fastest 4G+ in Kenya, strong enough to manage a WordPress website by hot-spotting your phone while on a train journey across the countryside. (Yes, I’ve done this)

• Safaricom – 5G in Nairobi, and the country’s most widespread 4G+ and 4G network, including the expansive and remote north.
• Airtel – No 5G yet, but Airtel has the second-best 4G+ and 4G coverage. Concentrated mainly around Nairobi but branching out to major towns across the country.
• Telkom – 4G+ is isolated to Nairobi and Mombasa, but 4G connection can be found in various regions. It often works better in Diani than Safaricom.

All three networks offer 4G+ mobile Wi-Fi routers, which are handy backups if you’re stuck or your phone dies.

But generally speaking, hot-spotting Safaricom and using public Wi-Fi is sufficient in most parts of Kenya. 

When to Visit Kenya

Given its size and the diversity of its climates and attractions, Kenya can be a year-round destination. Even during the rainy seasons, there’ll still be plenty of live music, festivals, parties, and opportunities to travel. 

Kenya Tourist Visas 

Since 2021, Kenya no longer offers visas on arrival for any nationality. You must apply for your Kenya visa online at the e-Visa website . 

But here’s a quick summary of the tourist visas available.

The Best VPNs in Kenya

I’m not gonna waste your time with the usual sales pitch about military-grade encryption, split tunneling, DNS, blah blah blah. You know how a VPN works. It keeps you safe on public Wi-Fi, lets you access geo-blocked content, and keeps your internet speeds consistent. 

After testing the most popular VPNs in Kenya, our choices are always:

• ExpressVPN – The fastest VPN and an in-house favorite with lots of servers in Africa, including Kenya. However, it’s expensive.
• NordVPN – The best overall VPN worldwide but slow in Africa due to a lack of servers on the continent.
• Surfshark – The best budget VPN for Africa, with reliable servers that are faster than NordVPN and cheaper than ExpressVPN
• CyberGhost – A good option with affordable plans, but we have the least experience using it.

Read More >>> The best VPNs for digital nomads in Africa.

Top Things to Do in Kenya

Safaris and National Parks

You probably know this already, but Kenya’s National Parks spoil you for choice of safari adventures. A trip to the Kenyan countryside will leave you in awe, from the many big game animals to the beautiful sunsets. For more, check out this guide to the Great Wildebeest Migration in Kenya.

Beach Getaways

Kenya’s long coastline is home to countless spectacular white sandy beaches, charming coastal towns, and relaxing islands. They offer stunning beauty, tranquility, a unique mix of cultures, and plenty of fast Wi-Fi.

Diani offers the best mix of beach life and real-world convenience, with plenty to do, and an abundance of cafes to work from. Kilifi is a smaller, hipper, more creative, and stunningly beautiful beach town, popular with young Nairobians looking to let loose and party. 

Lamu is the absolute best place to switch off – mostly because the internet there sucks, and the slow island pace of life is spoiled every time you open your laptop!

Mt. Kenya is the second-highest peak in Africa, offering breathtaking landscapes for experienced hikers. However, there are also plenty of smaller, more accessible mountains and hiking trails in many national parks. Some, such as Ngong Hills and Karura Forest , can be accessed without leaving Nairobi.

Money in Kenya 

Cost of living in kenya.

The following outline relates mostly to living expenses in Nairobi. This is for a few reasons:

• It’s the city with which we have the most experience
• It’s the most expensive city to live in Kenya
• It’s the most popular place to live, outside of Diani or Kilifi 

If you plan to live somewhere in Kenya other than Nairobi, expect your costs to be roughly 30% less.

Living expenses in Kenya for an expat or digital nomad in Kenya can be compared to that of many European cities. The five main reasons for this are:

• Overpriced rent for ‘expat’ apartments in nice neighborhoods.
• Lack of good public transport means you’ll be taking lots of Ubers, Bolts, flights, and private car hires.
• Many groceries are imported with high import duty taxes.
• Entrance fees to national parks for non-citizens are very high ($30+ per person per day). So, if you plan on exploring Kenya on the weekends, it can get expensive. 
• Nairobi doesn’t have much of a street food culture. Eating out usually means restaurants, averaging $8-15 per meal. On the coast and in smaller cities, it’s easier to find cheap, tasty local food. 

But don’t worry, Kenyans complain just as much about the cost of living in Nairobi – so you’re not alone.

Based on our experience, we suggest budgeting $2,000-2,500 per month to cover all your living, working, and travel expenses in Kenya.

This cost of living in Nairobi guide will help you budget and compare it to your usual expenses. TLDR: the table below is a quick summary.

M-PESA Mobile Money

M-PESA mobile money is a technology that allows you to make transactions from your phone’s SIM card. Using your Kenyan phone number, you can add cash to a virtual wallet and use this to send and receive money, as well as pay for goods and services. 

M-PESA was invented in Kenya and launched in 2007 to help ‘unbanked’ people access financial services and better engage in the economy. 

You can (and will) use M-PESA for virtually everything in Kenya: 

• Shopping in physical stores
• Shopping online
• Buying fruit and veg o the side of the road
• Paying for transport and accommodation
• Tipping service staff
• Paying rent and utility bills in apartments
• And much more

In fact, M-PESA has made physical cash almost redundant in daily life in Kenya. 

It’s perfectly safe, convenient, and easy to set up.  However, you must buy a SIM card from Safaricom to use M-PESA (it’s their technology).  But, as explained before, Safaricom is the best phone network in Kenya for digital nomads anyway. Other telcos’ mobile money systems like Airtel Money and Telkom’s T-Kash work well enough with M-PESA but using Safaricom is most convenient.

If you sign up to Wise, you can also top up any personal M-PESA wallet directly from your account (as explained below). 

Travel Debit Cards for Kenya

Card payments are widely accepted in Kenya, and generally perfectly safe. I’ve never had a card cloned here, nor have I heard of it happening to anyone else. And with all the safety features available on modern travel debit cards, you can easily monitor your account for any suspicious activity or just freeze your card when you’re not using it. 

If you’re still worried about paying with a debit card, then just stick to using it in hotels, highend restaurants, and shopping malls. 

I brought 3 travel debit cards with me when I moved to Kenya full-time:

• Wise:  The best all-round, with free ATM withdrawals up to $200 per month, M-Pesa top-ups, and many other great features.
• N26:  a good backup in case there’s an issue with your Wise card, but their customer service sucks!
• Revolut:  I don’t think I’ve ever actually used my Revolut card in Kenya, but it’s handy to keep just in case. 

The best thing about  using Wise in Kenya  is the ability to directly top up your M-PESA account from your Wise balance or debit card. It usually takes less than a minute, and you can send $100s in one go. 

This makes using M-PESA even easier. If I’m out and about, and my M-PESA wallet is too low to pay for something, as long as I have an internet connection, I can simply open my Wise app and top it up on the spot. It usually only takes 1 minute.

Withdrawing Money From ATMs

Nairobi’s many shopping malls are the best place to withdraw cash, and you’ll find plenty in every neighbourhood. ATMs are generally safe to use, and tampering is rare. If you’re using an ATM outside a shopping mall, there will probably be a security guard nearby watching very closely. 

Just make sure you keep any cash very safe and put it away before you leave the ATM in case of pickpockets. 

I&M Bank and Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) don’t charge you for using a foreign bank card. Other banks can charge up to $5 per transaction. Most I&M Bank ATMs also allow you to withdraw USD. 

Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads in Kenya

Trust me, traveling in Kenya without medical insurance is not worth it. The only adequate healthcare in the country is from  private hospitals and clinics , which are often exorbitantly expensive. If you have an emergency, it could bankrupt you. 

Don’t risk having to pay for medical care out of your pocket. Invest in some decent travel health insurance and keep your documents somewhere they’re easy to access. 

SafetyWing:  my go-to provider. I’ve never had to make a claim with SafetyWing, but they’re good value and cover almost every country in Africa. 

True Traveller:  I used them for years before SafetyWing, made a couple of big claims, and never had an issue. However, they’re only available to residents of the UK and Europe. 

World Nomads:  The #1 recommendation from most travel bloggers. I’ve never signed up to World Nomads, so I can’t say whether they live up to all the hype.

Cost of Travel in Kenya

Kenya is not a budget travel destination. But that doesn’t mean you need to spend a lot to enjoy it. 

The biggest expenses for people visiting the country are usually safaris. Skip these or join group tours, and your costs are drastically reduced. 

But what are you supposed to do in Kenya, if you’re not on safari?

You can visit plenty of smaller, stunningly beautiful national parks dotted around the country, relax on the beach, and soak up the amazing atmosphere and hustle of this vibrant, exciting country.

Your other big expense will be accommodation. There are only a handful of backpacker hostels dotted throughout Kenya – and they’re often not suitable for digital nomads. But if you can afford to pay $60-70 per night, you can usually find some great deals on Booking.com (especially if you join its “Genius” loyalty program).

Widespread and safe card acceptance, and Kenya’s MPESA mobile money means you’ll rarely need physical cash while in Kenya.

This makes using money while traveling in Kenya safer and more convenient than in most countries around the world. 

When you do need cash, don’t carry large amounts – due to the risk of pickpocketing or theft. When withdrawing cash from ATMs, they’re generally safe, with a security guard often close by. If in doubt, visit a bank or shopping mall.

Travel Etiquette

• Try not to be too flashy . A lot of people in Kenya live below the poverty line. It could be considered crude and might be dangerous.
• Kenya is mainly conservative . While Nairobi could be considered progressive, a lot of the rest of the country isn’t. Take this into consideration in how you dress and behave when in public. 
• The LGBTQ+ community is still not widely accepted here . There are spots where you can be yourself, but in most areas, even at the coast and especially in Kilifi, you have to be careful about how open you are.
• Kenyans are really sensitive about racism . You may not realize it when you say or do something that’s interpreted that way, but just be aware the issue can come up.
• Tipping is generally accepted . Outlets that don’t allow tipping will likely not accept cash as well. So add a little extra to the bill. It helps people out more than you may realize, as wages for service staff in Kenya are incredibly low, ranging from $100 – $200 per month.

Listen >>> What’s going wrong with Kenyan-Expat relationships? (Podcast)

Safety in Kenya

Despite its media portrayal and reputation, Kenya is generally a very safe country to visit. Violence against tourists is rare. However, there are some precautions to take.

Safety in Nairobi

Petty crime has increased over the last few years. Lots of jobs were lost during the Covid lockdown, and crime saw a spike after the lockdown was lifted. Generally, avoid the CBD on foot if you can, and be mindful of your surroundings everywhere else. 

Here are a few more things you can do to keep yourself a bit safer in Kenya:

• Use cab-hailing apps instead of hailing a taxi yourself . You can easily follow up if anything happens.
• Keep away sparsely populated streets in the CBD . Attacks are more likely to happen when people aren’t around to help.
• Don’t flash your jewelry or technology on the streets . If you have to receive a call, look for an open building and duck inside. Snatchings are pretty common in Nairobi.
• Even in a private car, keep your windows closed and doors locked . Even slightly ajar, snatchers can pry it open and grab your belongings in a flash.
• Do not chase after attackers . If anything happens, stay in your car or look for somewhere safe immediately to regroup.
• Avoid visiting new areas alone . Find a local friend, guide, or do it in a group.

Theft & Pickpocketing

For most people visiting Kenya, this is probably the biggest danger. Most thefts occur as pickpocketing in crowded areas, snatch-and-grabs in Nairobi’s CBD and public transport (which you probably won’t be using), or at night. Mombasa’s old town has developed a reputation for being unsafe and is best avoided unless in a group or on a walking tour.

To avoid theft during the day, don’t walk around with your phone out, and make sure your wallet is either in a bag or away from easy reach.

Don’t keep valuables in your car if you park in the open. It could be broken into.

Safety at Night

Even if you’re familiar with an area, avoid walking around at night. Motorbike drivers will often see an opportunity for a quick theft as they pass you, and most cities and towns in Kenya are poorly lit. 

Use ride-hailing apps, or ask your hotel to find you a boda driver or taxi.

Despite being highly publicized, Kenya experiences very few terrorist attacks. In the last 5 years, Nairobi has experienced fewer attacks than Paris, London, Berlin, and many other European capital cities. 

Even so, there is armed security in all major towns, with every hotel and shopping mall well protected. 

There is no way of predicting when a country will next experience a terrorist attack, so don’t waste time worrying about it.

Kenya Digital Nomads FAQs

Does kenya have a digital nomad visa.

Kenya doesn’t have a digital nomad visa. You can apply online for the 90-day Visa if it’s your first visit or the 12-month Multiple Entry Visa if you frequent the country.

Can I work remotely in Kenya?

Yes, you can work remotely in Kenya. There are excellent 5G, 4G+, and 4G networks in most towns, widespread access to WiFi, laptop friendly cafes, and a few coworking spaces.

Is WeWork in Kenya?

No, WeWork is not in Kenya, but there are alternative coworking spaces like Workify .

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 999 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Kenya guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Kenya. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro .

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Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

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Healthcare facilities in Kenya

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The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500

FACT SHEET: Kenya State Visit to the United   States

Today, President Biden welcomes President Ruto of Kenya for a State Visit and Dinner to celebrate and deepen ties between our two nations.  This visit marks 60 years of official U.S.-Kenya partnership.  This partnership is founded on shared values, deep cooperation, and a common vision for the future.  The two leaders’ agenda showcases how our ties deliver tangible benefits to the people of our nations in areas including Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance; Health Partnerships; People-to-People Ties; Shared Climate Solutions; Trade and Investment; Debt, Development, and Sustainable Finance; Digital, Critical, and Emerging Technology Cooperation; and Peace and Security Cooperation.

Democracy, Governance, and Human Rights

Our countries are bonded by our shared democratic values and mutual commitment to advancing human rights and strengthening political institutions.  This historic State Visit is about the Kenyan and American people and their hopes for an inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous future for all.  Our countries endeavor to guard against the erosion of political checks and balances, counter misinformation and disinformation, mitigate hate-fueled violence targeting members of vulnerable communities, and tackle corruption by building transparent and accountable governance systems.  The State Visit highlights new areas of cooperation to safeguard rights and freedoms in the face of rising authoritarianism, expand avenues for dialogue, and elevate our shared global commitment to protecting democracy.

• Delivering Democracy:  The United States has programed nearly $40 million for democracy, human rights, and governance programming in Kenya, including through Presidential Initiative for Democratic Renewal programs that defend democratic elections and political processes, increase women’s political participation and leadership, counter Gender Based Violence, and advance digital democracy.  Additional support for activities in Kenya under the Presidential Initiative for Democratic Renewal build on Kenya’s important work as a member of the 14-country Global Partnership for Action on Gender-Based Online Harassment and Abuse, which is advancing global policies to address online safety for women and girls, including targeted violence against women political and public figures. 
• Supporting Independent Civil Society:   President Ruto executed on May 9 the legal instruments required to operationalize the 2013 Public Benefits Organization Act, which institutionalizes groundbreaking, global best practices for civil society protections.  The United States announced $700,000 in new assistance to support this effort in addition to the $2.7 million the United States is providing to improve civil society engagement in and oversight of governance processes.  The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) also announced an additional $1.3 million youth empowerment program aimed at strengthening political engagement at the subnational level and $600,000 to advance disability inclusion.
• Bringing Transparency to Government:  The United States and Kenya commit to strengthening the Open Government Partnership (OGP), which Kenya co-leads and the United States co-founded, including through robustly fulfilling our open government commitments at home.  USAID Administrator Power plans to represent the United States at the OGP event on the margins of the UN General Assembly High Level Week in September.  This event gathers world leaders for an opportunity to showcase the powerful global coalition on open government and democracy and to consider opportunities for further collaboration. 
• Promoting Human Rights:   The United States and Kenya affirm their commitment to upholding the human rights of all.  Together they stand with people around the world defending their rights against the forces of autocracy.  Kenya and the United States commit to bilateral dialogues that reinforce commitments to human rights, as well as a series of security and human rights technical engagements with counterparts in the Kenyan military, police, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs aimed at strengthening collaboration on security sector governance, atrocity prevention, and Women, Peace and Security in Kenya and regionally.
• Combatting Corruption:   The Administration intends to provide $500,000 for a new Fiscal Integrity Program to make county budget processes more transparent and inclusive and increase citizen engagement, and $500,000 to broaden the reach and effectiveness of anti-corruption advocacy by empowering civil society actors to create and disseminate multimedia content that engages citizens and mobilizes action against corruption.  To support the Government of Kenya to combat corruption, the Administration is providing $250,000 through the Global Accountability Program, and $300,000 to support Kenya’s proposed Whistleblower Protection law to strengthen Kenya’s anti-corruption legal architecture.  In addition, USAID has provided $2.7 million to support the improved enforcement of policy and laws that deal with fraud, waste, and abuse in the delivery of public services to Kenyan citizens. 
• Gathering Anti-Corruption Professionals:   With support from the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, the UN Office on Drugs and Crime and the East African Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities convened a regional conference from May 20-23, 2024, in Nairobi, Kenya, gathering anti-corruption practitioners and policymakers from countries participating in the East Africa Anti-Corruption Platform. 
• Strengthening Police Reform Efforts:   Building on a longstanding partnership to further police capacity building and reform efforts, the United States and Kenya announced a new $7 million partnership to advance and strengthen the modernization and professionalization of Kenya’s National Police Service, with a focus on staff and training development.
• Reducing Prison Overcrowding and Improving Detention Conditions:   The United States and Kenya are committed to further advancing Kenyan-led efforts to improve the oversight of and conditions within Kenya’s prison service.  The United States announced a new $2.2 million initiative to provide training, mentoring, and technical assistance to implement priority reforms.
• Combatting Transnational Organized Crime and Supporting Criminal Justice Sector Reform:   Recognizing the regional role Kenya plays in combating transnational organized crime, the United States intends to provide $4.9 million in new funding for Kenya and other East African countries to improve cooperation and coordination in combating criminal networks and holding criminals accountable.  Funding also supports capacity building and reform efforts within the Kenyan police and justice sectors.
• Supporting Investigative Journalism:   The United States seeks to amplify Kenya’s leadership in building Africa’s digital resilience by supporting linkages between well-known international investigative organizations and select Kenyan NGOs, media outlets, and citizen journalists to build up Nairobi as a regional hub for exposing issues in the public interest.  This support also helps journalists in their pursuit of public information.  Pursuing these efforts in Kenya – a regional media and technology leader – positively impacts East Africa and the broader continent, particularly as Kenyan recipients connect with counterparts in the region.
• Strengthening Kenya’s Frameworks for Free and Fair Elections:   Working with Congress, the Administration intends to provide $1.5 million in new technical assistance to support Kenya’s electoral legal framework reform process aimed at strengthening the election commission, political parties, and campaign finance.  This funding aims to improve public awareness raising and advocacy around the reforms, laying the groundwork for a more inclusive, transparent and peaceful 2027 election.  This support complements Kenya’s amendment to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission Act, which passed the National Assembly on May 3 and is now with the Senate.

Health Partnership:  Securing Our Collective Health

Decades of collaboration between the United States and Kenya in the health sector have resulted in tremendous improvements in health not only for millions of our citizens, but also for the broader global community.  This cooperation is vital to developing medical innovations, preventing the emergence of future global pandemics, and ensuring that effective treatments are widely available.  Our governments are working in lockstep with the private sector, which is developing new manufacturing capacity in Kenya that can serve Africa and the world.  The efforts showcased during the State Visit build upon these successes to ensure a healthier, more prosperous future for all.

• Continuing the Fight against HIV/AIDS:   The United States and Kenya are developing a “Sustainability Roadmap” to integrate HIV service delivery into primary health care, ensuring quality and impact are retained.  With more than $7 billion in support from the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) spanning two decades, Kenya has successfully responded to the HIV epidemic and strives to end HIV as a public health threat in Kenya by 2027.  These efforts improve holistic health services for the 1.3 million Kenyans currently receiving antiretroviral therapy and millions more benefiting from HIV prevention programs, while allowing for greater domestic resources to be put toward the HIV response, allowing PEFPAR support to decrease over time.
• Partnering for Global Health Security:   Kenya and the United States announced a formal proclamation between the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Government of Kenya for sharing information, identifying best practices, and defining steps toward the development and full launch of the Kenyan National Public Health Institute.  As a gateway to East Africa through Port Mombasa, Kenya’s capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease threats is critical.  To support our health partnership, Kenya and the United States plan to develop and launch a customized Public Health Emergency Management training program to enhance health security across all 47 counties in Kenya. 
• Reducing the Impacts of Malaria:   Through the President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI), the United States contributed $33.5 million in 2023 to fight malaria in Kenya, providing vital financial and technical assistance to the Government of Kenya.  The United States supports resilient health systems to deliver care by training health workers, strengthening supply chains, improving data monitoring, and reinforcing national health policies and guidelines.  These investments have contributed to a 50% reduction in malaria prevalence over the last decade.  In support the Government of Kenya’s localization goals, PMI is expanding its procurement of pharmaceutical supplies from Kenyan manufacturers and intends to procure up to an additional 5 million malaria treatments and 475,000 preventive treatment doses from Kenyan producers in 2024.
• Growing Health Manufacturing:   Kenya committed to working with lawmakers to advance the Kenyan Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB) Act, a necessary step to boost local manufacturing of medical products and expand private American investment in the sector.  Securing and diversifying global supply chains by promoting local and regional manufacturing of health products is a priority of the United States.  The implementation of the PPB Act has the potential to increase manufacturing capacity in Kenya and Africa to ensure the availability of life-saving medicines, diagnostic tests, and devices.  This should also mitigate the impact of global supply chain shocks, which were so evident during the COVID-19 pandemic.  To further these goals, USAID provided $2.3 million in support to Revital Healthcare to develop rapid diagnostic tests for HIV, malaria, hepatitis B and C, dengue, and pregnancy, and to build a manufacturing plant capable of producing 240 million tests per year.  Additionally, USAID and the Kenyan Ministry of Health are partnering to equip all neonatal clinics with Revital-made continuous positive airway pressure machines for babies requiring respiratory support.
• Partnering with the Private Sector in Healthcare:   The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is investing in Kenya’s vibrant private sector by making a $10 million direct loan to Kenyan company Hewa Tele, which provides an affordable and regular supply of medical oxygen to healthcare facilities in Africa, and two rounds of equity investment totaling $4 million to Kasha Global, a Kenya-based e-commerce company that provides personal care, health care, and beauty products to low-income women in Kenya and Rwanda.
• Expanding Joint Research:   Kenya and the United States recommitted to our long-standing partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the CDC and the Kenyan Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) to support Kenya’s Applied Science Hub, building on 45 years of research partnership on malaria, HIV, tuberculosis, vaccine-preventable diseases, maternal and child health, emerging infectious diseases, and COVID-19.  The research in the Applied Sciences Hub aims to expand surveillance, answer critical public health questions, and introduce novel diagnostic methods, including advanced molecular and serology-based methods, and training in public health laboratory core competencies.  This year, the United States provided an estimated $12.9 million to support research efforts by KEMRI through CDC, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Department of Defense.  In FY 2023 NIH supported over 250 grants to U.S. organizations that collaborated with Kenyan organizations, covering a wide range of relevant biomedical research topics, and approximately 90 of these collaborations include researchers at KEMRI.
• Meeting Kenya’s Digital Health Goals:   The United States announced over $31 million to advance Kenya’s efforts to set up a digital superhighway to enable a holistic view of health care delivery.  The United States has worked closely with the Kenyan Ministry of Health to build and deploy digital health solutions to support disease programs and improve the ability to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats.  This includes $4 million through USAID Power Africa’s Health Electrification and Telecommunications Alliance to support solar power solutions for health facilities and activities to strengthen community and facility information systems to improve patient care and expand access to emergency medical services for mothers and newborns.  Additionally, the NIH Harnessing Data Science for Health Discovery and Innovation in Africa (DS-I Africa) program focuses on facilitating the use of data science to impact health outcomes in Africa and supports a data hub and training and educational development programs in Kenya.

People-to-People Ties:  Improving and Enriching Lives  

The American and Kenyan people have deep ties that go far beyond the 60 years of official cooperation between our governments.  These relationships – rooted in family, friendship, and community – improve and enrich our lives.  They drive our cooperation, underpin our shared values, and elevate our aspirations.  The benefits of these ties are particularly evident in our cooperation in educating the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries.  The State Visit builds on this fundamental strength, catalyzing stronger partnerships through a series of groundbreaking education and exchange programs. 

• Strengthening Connections Between U.S. and Kenyan Educational Institutions: 
• Kennedy-Mboya Partnerships:   As the United States and Kenya celebrate 60 years of bilateral relations, and recalling the positive and enduring impact of the Kennedy-era student airlift, the newly announced Kennedy-Mboya Partnerships support a new scholarship program that promotes intellectual, academic, and innovative exchange.  The Administration intends to provide $3.3 million for a U.S. Department of State program for sixty Kenyan undergraduate students to study for a semester in the United States, with a focus on STEM.  This program supports the development and success of the next generation of Kenyan scientists, researchers, and engineers.
• Partnership 2024 :  The Administration intends to provide $500,000 for Partnership 2024 to support the development of Kenyan students, scientists, researchers, and engineers by encouraging U.S. universities to increase investment in relationships with Kenyan universities and research institutions.  Faculty and research collaboration are planned to bolster the program, supported by Fulbright Specialists to provide additional expertise.
• EDTECH Africa:   The Governments of Kenya and the United States, in collaboration with Microsoft, Mastercard’s Center for Inclusive Growth, Howard University, Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University, and Morehouse College announced the establishment of EDTECH Africa.  This initiative serves as an emerging technology bridge between Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and African scholars, aimed at cultivating educational exchanges in the ever-evolving landscape of emerging technology.  This initiative expands Mastercard’s existing investment of $6.5 million for the Atlanta University Center Consortium Data Science Initiative and $5 million for Howard University’s Center for Applied Data Science and Analytics, actively involving African scholars with HBCU students and faculty in the journey toward greater proficiency as data scientists.  Microsoft will invest an additional $500,000 to support HBCU and Kenyan students engaged in research at the Microsoft Africa Research Institute (MARI) in Nairobi, Kenya, complementing its recent contribution of $350,000 for the Atlanta University Center Consortium Data Science Initiative to establish a network of data science faculty across HBCUs.  USAID intends to invest $850,000 to facilitate this partnership between HBCUs and Kenyan universities.
• National Science Foundation (NSF) International Activities :  NSF has committed to offering workshops, planning grants, or supplements to U.S. universities to strengthen connections between U.S. and Kenyan universities, jointly identify research foci, and facilitate collaboration in research, education, and workforce development.
• Employment Pathways for Youth :  USAID announced $6.5 million to support a partnership between Edison State Community College in Piqua, Ohio, and Kenya’s United States International University of Africa to strengthen up to 40 Kenyan technical vocational education and training institutions in the high-growth sectors of information and communications technology (ICT) and manufacturing of pharmaceuticals and textiles.
• Framework for Cooperation:   The United States and Kenya signed a Framework for Cooperation to support higher education partnerships for STEM education.  The Framework describes U.S. and Kenyan priorities and is accompanied by a commitment from Microsoft, Micron, Mastercard, and several U.S. and Kenyan universities expressing their support for STEM education.  The Framework fosters higher education partnerships and commitments to partner private sector stakeholders, Kenyan institutions, and U.S. institutions to build mutual capacity in information and computer technology, microchip manufacturing, and other STEM-related education and career opportunities.
• Collaboration with the National Museums of Kenya:  The Smithsonian Institution announced a $150,000 project funded by the U.S. Department of State to assess opportunities, challenges, and possible enhancements to support the National Museums of Kenya continued evolution as a leader in cultural and natural heritage preservation.  Smithsonian officials plan to work collaboratively to identify possible areas for enhancement and growth, including facilities, collections care and conservation, curation, digital infrastructure, exhibitions, and research programs.
• Supporting Primary Education:  USAID intends to provide $24.5 million for the Kenya Primary Literacy Program (KPLP), a new nationwide early grade literacy activity implemented in close partnership with Kenya’s Ministry of Education.  KPLP programs are delivered in English and Kiswahili to all public primary schools and select private schools.  KPLP expands new innovations to address literacy needs of grade 1-3 learners while building more inclusive, accountable, and resilient education institutions and systems. 
• Bolstering Kenya’s Creative Workforce:  The United States and Kenya announced new initiatives and programs to strengthen the creative economies between our two countries.  In partnership with the Recording Academy, the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts, and other leading private sector and civil society institutions, the United States envisions new programs to promote collaboration, build capacity, and bolster professional creative industry ecosystems.  We seek to assist emerging leaders in television, film, and music to learn new skills, build networks, and participate in international festivals.  The two countries also promote cultural heritage and tourism by supporting the preservation of the archaeological site of Takwa through the prestigious U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation.
• Expanding Emerging Technology Training Program:  The Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies intends to launch a new fellowship program this fall, funded in part by Meta, bringing together high-achieving mid-career government officials from select African countries.  This program equips the next generation of leaders across the continent with the policy and technical expertise needed to help their governments translate the digital transformations underway – including in AI and other emerging technologies – into broadly shared growth for their societies.  In recognition of the technology sector leadership demonstrated by both the Kenyan public and private sector, Kenya is the first country to be added the inaugural fellowship cohort.
• Increasing Diplomatic Exchange:   The United States Foreign Service Institute and the Kenyan Foreign Service Academy plan consultations with the intention of enhancing cooperation and further exchanges between the two institutions.  Sharing a mutual interest in promoting best practices for the training of diplomats, the United States and Kenya commit to exploring Kenya’s participation in an emerging international community of practice for diplomatic training. 
• Strengthening U.S.-Kenya Research Ties with Kenya’s Health Workforce:   The Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) Kenya is a partnership between Moi University, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, and the AMPATH Consortium of global universities around the world led by Indiana University.  With $20.7 million in annual funding from USAID, these partners are reaching 120,000 Kenyans on life saving antiretroviral treatment.  Through AMPATH, the universities commit to continuing the education of healthcare providers, medical students, residents, and community health workers.
• Increasing Consular Capacity:   The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi expanded the number of staff working in the Consular Section to expedite the review and issuance of visas for travel of Kenyan citizens to the United States.  The Consular Section issues visas for students, tourists, businesspeople, and workers, and also processes visas to reunite families.  At the same time, our Consular Section provides services to American citizens living in or visiting Kenya.  These people-to-people links are the bedrock of our bilateral relationship.

Shared Climate Solutions:  Fostering Growth and Resilience  

President Biden and President Ruto have a shared climate vision as not just an existential challenge of our time, but as the most significant economic opportunity of the 21 st century.  It is a generational opportunity for Africa to become a leader in the global clean energy economy.  Closer partnership is generating greater advances in clean energy supply chains, mobilizing climate-related investment, sustainable agriculture, adaptation, and resilience.

• Launching the U.S.-Kenya Climate and Clean Energy Industrial Partnership:   During the State Visit, we announced the launch of a U.S.-Kenya Climate and Clean Energy Industrial Partnership to elevate climate action and green industrialization as a critical pillar of our bilateral relationship.  We also signaled our intent to implement a new green growth framework throughout Africa.  Through this partnership, the United States and Kenya prioritize cooperation across the three, mutually-supportive areas of clean energy deployment, clean energy supply chains, and green industrialization.  To support these activities under the Partnership, the United States and Kenya intend to work with international financial institutions and multilateral trust funds to identify mechanisms to mobilize investment for clean energy manufacturing and services.  The two sides intend to strategically leverage concessional finance and risk mitigation tools at the multilateral development banks and climate funds to lower the cost of capital for clean energy deployment and supply chains in Kenya and the region, including a portion of the $568 million in catalytic finance that the United States provided to the Clean Technology Fund in 2023.
• Humanitarian Disaster Response:  To date in FY 2024, USAID has provided $42 million in emergency humanitarian assistance to Kenya.  Including this assistance, USAID’s Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance has provided nearly $1.3 billion over the last 12 years to respond to humanitarian needs in Kenya, including those caused by natural disasters.
• Connecting Homes, Businesses, and Institutions to Reliable Clean Energy:  USAID, through the Power Africa Initiative, announced $300,000 to support women’s entrepreneurship and gender-equity in the Kenyan energy sector and committed $3.6 million in to support the accelerated connection of more homes, businesses, and institutions in Kenya to cleaner electricity as part of its Empowering East and Central Africa program.  In addition, Power Africa inter-agency partners, including the U.S. Department of Energy, DFC, and USTDA, announced key deliverables that, in partnership with the Government of Kenya, advance Power Africa’s mandate to alleviate energy poverty.
• Investing in Hydropower :  Virunga Power, a U.S. company and Power Africa partner, announced a pipeline of six run-of-river hydropower projects in advanced stages of development in Kenya.  With a total expected investment of $100 million, the hydropower projects will be constructed in sequence over the next five years and are expected to provide 31 megawatts of clean, baseload renewable energy.  The power generated should improve the stability of Kenya Power’s distribution network in Western and Central Kenya and enable new connectivity and industrial and economic growth in rural areas of the country.
• Deepening Government-to-Government Cooperation on Clean Energy and Carbon Management:  The U.S. Department of Energy and Kenyan Ministry of Energy announced their intent to sign a MOU in June in Nairobi intended to enhance bilateral collaboration and partnership in the development of clean energy, carbon management technologies, and decarbonization strategies.  This MOU establishes a framework to facilitate the sharing of technical knowledge, advice, skills, and expertise across numerous sectors – including geothermal energy development and industrial decarbonization.  The framework forms the basis of sustainable and climate-adaptive economic growth across our countries and regions.
• Investing in Electric Vehicle Startups:   DFC announced a $10 million direct loan to BasiGo, an electric vehicle company that leases and sells electric buses to public transport bus operators in Kenya.  The loan facilitates procurement of buses and batteries for sale in Kenya and is a key e-mobility project supporting Kenya’s ambitious climate goals.  Additionally, DFC announced a $10 million loan to Kenyan company Roam Electric that supports its assembly and production of electric motorcycles on-site in its Nairobi production facility.  The U.S. Department of State also announced $100,000 for technical assistance to support accelerating the transition to zero-emissions vehicles in Kenya, including through policy development and implementation, capacity building and peer-to-peer learning, and workforce development.
• Growing Kenya’s E-mobility Sector:   DFC recently announced a $10 million loan to Mogo Auto Kenya to support affordable financing for cars, motorcycle taxis, and logbook loans in Kenya.  The transaction supports President Ruto’s Africa Green Industrialization Initiative, building upon DFC’s longstanding support for the e-mobility economy in Kenya.
• Launching the MCC-Kenya Urban Mobility and Growth Threshold Program:   The United States and Kenya are scheduled to launch a seminal partnership to deliver a more connected, mobile, and green Nairobi.  The $60 million grant from the Millennium Challenge Corporation funds a four-year program focusing on the transportation needs of underserved groups, safer options for women and pedestrians, and climate-friendly public transportation, generating benefits for over four million residents and increasing urban mobility while decreasing transportation sector emissions.
• Increasing Plastic Recycling:   USAID recently expanded its support for the Kenyan recycling company T3, now totaling over $2 million.  T3 plans to leverage nearly $13 million in additional private investment to expand plastic collection and acquire a “bottle-to-bottle” processing line, the first in Kenya.  The line enables production of food grade recycled PET resin and is projected to more than double the amount of PET plastic recycled in Kenya.  The T3 initiative is projected to create 200 jobs and indirect economic opportunities for approximately 8,000 collectors, mainly women and youth.
• Supporting Community-Led Conservation:  The Southern Kenya Conservation Project (SOK) and the Kenya Rhino Range Expansion Project (KRRE) are building partnerships for the conservation of the southern Kenya landscape and the expansion of rhino range in Kenya.  The partnerships aim to raise significant funds to increase wildlife numbers, restore landscapes, open up wildlife corridors, and spur economic opportunity. USAID is providing $300,000 to develop landscape and fundraising strategies to help Kenya leverage funds and access financing for both projects.  SOK and KRRE will help Kenya build climate resilience and achieve their 30×30 goal of conserving 30 percent of their land and oceans by 2030.
• Promoting Wildlife Conservation:  To assist the Government of Kenya with combatting wildlife trafficking and other nature crimes, the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of the Interior have collaborated to station a permanent U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service law enforcement attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, strengthening the longstanding wildlife conservation partnership between our two countries.  This position was designed to assist with law enforcement coordination and consultation, facilitation of intelligence sharing and investigative support, and access to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service forensic and technical support resources. 
• Amplifying Scientific Partnership:   The United States welcomes Kenya’s leadership in hosting the upcoming Smithsonian’s ForestGEO international analytical gathering in Nanyuki, Kenya, co-hosted by the Mpala Research Centre, the National Museums of Kenya, and the Karatina University, from June 29 to July 13, 2024.  The Smithsonian ForestGEO network studies the diversity and dynamics of forests, the forest carbon cycle, and the impact of climate and global change on forest biodiversity and function.
• Improving Weather Forecasting:   DFC recently announced a $1 million loan to Ignitia AB, a tropical weather forecasting service designed for smallholder farmers in Kenya, Ghana, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  This loan was part of the Africa Small Business Catalyst program in partnership with the U.S. African Development Foundation (USADF) and USAID.
• Fostering High-Integrity Carbon Markets:   The United States and Kenya established a partnership to support Kenya’s efforts to be a global leader in delivering high-integrity and high-quality carbon credits.  In support of this partnership, the U.S. State Department and USAID announced $1 million in targeted technical assistance and analytical capabilities to support development of Kenya’s framework for high-integrity carbon markets and to strengthen Kenya’s ability to engage in related transactions.
• Investing in Carbon Capture:  The U.S. Department of Energy, through Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, announced a one-year project to accelerate the commercial readiness of carbon dioxide (CO2) removal approaches that leverage the reactive CO2 mineralization storage potential in Kenya’s volcanic-hosted geothermal systems.  The project aims to develop and implement a characterization protocol to evaluate potential strategic basalt CO2 storage sites through a knowledge exchange process; parametrize a static geologic model to facilitate evaluation of CO2 injection and mineralization storage strategies; and establish the institutional foundation for sustained Kenyan collaboration within the international mineralization storage research and development community.
• Announcing New Scientific Collaboration:  The Smithsonian Institution announced a new research fellowship program in Kenya, funded by education entrepreneurs Dennis and Connie Keller, to build capacity, train, and exchange knowledge.  Alongside Smithsonian scientists, Kenyan Shared Health Science Fellows study impacts of changes in climate, pollution, stressors, and toxicants on wellbeing, health, and physiology in humans, plants, animals, and our shared environment.  Over the next four years, the program aims to provide six fellows with two years of training at the Mpala Research Centre and spend time at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
• Deepening U.S.-Africa Nuclear Industry Cooperation:  The U.S. Department of Energy, in partnership with Kenya and Ghana, plans to host the second installment of the U.S.-Africa Nuclear Energy Summit (USANES) on Industry Readiness in Nairobi, Kenya in August 2024.  Recognizing the historic relationship between the United States and Kenya, USANES 2024 envisions U.S. and African policymakers, technical experts, and industry leaders convening in Nairobi to address critical issues impacting industry readiness and the future of nuclear energy on the African continent.  The Summit comprises educational workshops, stakeholder engagement sessions, and multilateral discussions on topics from financing and workforce development to supply chain preparedness.  The Summit aims to underscore the opportunities nuclear power presents to reach Net Zero by 2050 and further strengthen the robust ties between the United States and Kenya. 

Trade and Investment:  Generating Prosperity   

The trade and investment partnership between the United States and Kenya is driving our shared prosperity, generating well-paying jobs, expanding economic growth, protecting the rights of workers, and spurring new innovations with global benefits.  This partnership spans the full spectrum of large to small businesses.  Both countries are partnering with the private sector to further strengthen these economic ties, including in the critical areas of clean energy technology, agriculture, and affordable housing.

• Advancing a U.S.-Kenya Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership:   The U.S. and Kenya have made significant progress on the U.S.-Kenya Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP) .  We are negotiating high standard commitments in a range of areas with a view to increase investment; promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth; benefit workers, consumers, and businesses (including micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises); and support African regional economic integration.  The U.S. Trade Representative and Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Investment, Trade, and Industry committed in May to work towards concluding an agreement by the end of 2024.
• Signing a U.S.-Kenya Commercial and Investment Partnership:  The United States and Kenya intend to sign a Commercial and Investment Partnership, affirming a mutual commitment to deepening commercial and investment ties between our two countries.  This Partnership, with robust participation from the private sector, aims to promote a strong business-enabling environment and to facilitate trade and investment opportunities in Kenya focused on key priority sectors including infrastructure, agriculture, and the digital economy.
• Opening a DFC Nairobi Office:  DFC announced it plans to open an office in Nairobi, playing a key role in driving DFC’s pipeline development across key sectors in Kenya such as agriculture, health, e-mobility, energy, infrastructure, and financial inclusion, including on-lending to small and medium sized enterprises and women entrepreneurs.
• Establishing A Framework Agreement with Coca-Cola:   In Atlanta, President Ruto visited Coca-Cola HQ to sign a framework agreement focused on policy engagement, mango juice production, and plastic recycling.  His visit also celebrated 70 years of Coca-Cola in Kenya, along with the company’s partnership on drought response and clean water, use of its supply chains to distribute COVID vaccines and protective equipment, and a new $175 million investment in its economy.
• Reaping Benefits from AGOA:   Vivo Fashion, a leading Kenyan women’s fashion brand in East Africa, announced the opening of its first retail storefront in the United States in Atlanta, Georgia.  Vivo Fashion is part of a growing Kenyan apparel industry that benefits from market access to the United States under AGOA, the largest single component of U.S. trade with Kenya.
• Improving Food Security through Jobs:   USAID is investing in the future with $15 million for new activities designed to reduce poverty and malnutrition and address global food security by expanding investment opportunities.  By creating over 50,000 new jobs, catalyzing over $200 million in new agricultural sales, and mobilizing over $200 million in new finance for agriculture, these activities improve food security and nutrition outcomes for over 800,000 Kenyans.
• Investing in Kenyan Businesses:
• Acorn Green Housing Project:  DFC recently approved an approximately $180 million loan to Acorn, a real estate developer that constructs and operates affordable student housing in Kenya.  The DFC investment is expected to catalyze an additional $360 million in local Kenyan investment in one of the largest green housing portfolios in Africa. With early-stage support from USAID and Prosper Africa and financing from DFC, this transaction is designed to address a critical need and is a strong example of the power of whole of U.S.-government support to the private sector as it pursues projects with an emphasis on development impact that delivers for the people of Kenya.
• Pezesha Africa Limited:   DFC announced a $500,000 technical assistance grant to build a proprietary credit scoring model to improve Kenyan company Pezesha Africa Limited’s underwriting capabilities for small and medium sized enterprise clients.  Pezesha is a capital enablement lending infrastructure platform focused on increasing access to finance for retail trade micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises by integrating financial services into existing supply chain verticals.
• Keep IT Cool:   DFC recently announced a $500,000 loan to Kenyan-based Keep IT Cool, a business-to-business aggregation and sales platform to connect fish farmers with buyers utilizing cold chain technology.  This loan was part of the Africa Small Business Catalyst program in partnership with USADF and USAID.
• African Fertilizer and Agribusiness Partnership, Inc.:   DFC recently announced a $10 million second loss guarantee to African Fertilizer and Agribusiness Partnership, Inc. to expand the sale of fertilizer on credit to small and medium-sized enterprise agri-input suppliers in Kenya, Zambia, and Ghana.  The guaranty deal is expected to enable up to $360 million in additional fertilizer sales in these three countries over the next three years, furthering regional food security and agricultural production.
• Kentegra Biotechnology:   DFC recently announced a $10 million loan to Kentegra Biotechnology in Kenya to support the construction of a new facility to scale up its production capacity of pale refined pyrethrum extract, a key ingredient in organic pesticides.  DFC’s loan provides women farmers with more predictable income, higher prices than alternative crop options, and training to implement best farming practices and financial planning tools to fully benefit from the increased incomes resulting from pyrethrum cultivation.  USTDA previously announced a grant of $660,000 for a feasibility study supporting the development of this facility, which can facilitate Kenya’s ability to respond to international demand for safer and environmentally friendlier insecticides. 

Debt, Development, and Sustainable Finance

President Biden and President Ruto recognize that mounting debt burdens put critical investments in countries’ sustainable development and ability to address global challenges like the clean energy transition out of reach.  Countries should not have to make the difficult choice between paying back creditors and investing in their people, economy, and future.  

• Launching theNairobi-Washington Vision:   The United States and Kenya are launching the Nairobi-Washington Vision as a call to action to the international community to bring together all its tools to support countries with high ambition with respect to investments in their own development and addressing global challenges that are too often constrained by high debt burdens.  It calls on international financial institutions to provide coordinated packages of support, creditor countries to provide forms of debt relief and/or new budget-support flows, multilateral development banks and development finance institutions to facilitate private sector financing on better terms and crowd in private investment, and creditors to provide more transparent and sustainable lending.  Together we call to the international community to come together around these elements to support high-ambition countries with high-ambition financial support.
• Expanding Support to Developing Countries through the International Financial Institutions :  To make this vision a reality, the United States is stepping up support to international financial institutions.  Through efforts to evolve the multilateral development banks, the United States has worked with Kenya and other shareholders to secure reforms to unlock over $250 billion in new lending at these institutions.  The United States intends to make available in the coming weeks lending of up to $21 billion to the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Poverty Reduction and Growth Trust to support the poorest countries, and has made available this week $250 million through the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA) Crisis Response Window to support crisis response in the world’s poorest countries.  President Biden has asked Congress for funding in the FY 2025 budget that would enable $36 billion in new lending at the World Bank that, together with contributions from international partners, could provide an additional $100 billion boost to World Bank financing capacity over time.  Both Kenya and the United States stand in support of an ambitious policy and financing package for the replenishment of the World Bank’s International Development Association. 
• Enhancing Support for Kenya from the International Financial Institutions:  The United States has been a leading voice advocating for international financial institutions to step up support to Kenya to achieve development and climate ambitions.  With strong support from the United States, the IMF has doubled Kenya’s total program financing from $2.2 billion over three years to $4.4 billion over four years.  Robust U.S. financial support has enabled World Bank financing to Kenya, including through increased funding at IDA and the World Bank’s International Bank for Reconstruction and Development.  The United States championed the expansion to select countries in Sub-Saharan Africa of the European Bank for Reconstruction (EBRD) and Development, where the United States is the largest shareholder.  The United States and Kenya worked together to successfully secure Kenya’s membership in the EBRD, which would be a boost to private sector development in the country once Kenya is granted recipient country status.

Digital, Critical, and Emerging Technology Cooperation:  Delivering Innovation, Progress, and Inclusion  

The strong and growing innovation partnership between the United States and Kenya is anchored in a shared commitment to investing in secure and resilient technology supply chains, building a skilled and technologically savvy workforce for the future, promoting the digital economy and infrastructure, and enhancing our cybersecurity posture.  Like the United States, Kenya is an engine for innovation.  Kenya’s “Silicon Savannah” – a $1 billion technology hub – is home to more than 200 startups spanning a range of sectors, including clean energy, microelectronics, financial technology, and e-commerce.  The United States and Kenya share a commitment to ensuring that technology is developed and deployed in a manner that advances transparency, accountability, and human rights.  Together, our two countries are committed to seizing the opportunities of a new digital era and driving innovative approaches to solving some of the most consequential global challenges.

• Building Secure and Resilient Supply Chains:
• Establishing a New Semiconductor and Technology Partnership to Support U.S. and Kenyan Industry, Consumers, and Workers:   The United States views Kenya as a strong emergent partner in building resilient semiconductor supply chains, and we share a commitment to promoting high-quality jobs with strong labor standards for U.S. and Kenyan workers.  We aim to develop programmatic options to expand Kenya’s technical workforce and strengthen its regulatory environment to help attract further private investment and cultivate potential linkages to the U.S. semiconductor supply chain.  To this end, the U.S. State Department intends to partner with the Government of Kenya to explore opportunities to grow and diversify the global semiconductor ecosystem, specifically in the assembly, testing and packaging sector, under the International Technology Security and Innovation Fund, created by the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022.  Accordingly, the U.S. State Department is working with Congress to commit $1 million in foreign assistance to promote resilient semiconductors supply chains, build secure and trusted ICT ecosystems, and complement U.S. domestic manufacturing capacity.  This would make Kenya the first country in Africa to benefit from funding through the CHIPS and Science Act.
• Partnership to Expand Semiconductor Supply Chain:  The United States is working with Congress to establish a partnership with Kenya to expand and diversify its emerging semiconductor industry in support of global supply chains.  Programs to expand Kenya’s technical workforce and streamline its regulatory environment would assist in attracting further private investment and build linkages to the U.S. semiconductor supply chain, specifically in the assembly, testing and packaging sectors.
• Diversifying the Semiconductor Workforce :  NSF intends to partner with Micron and Global Foundries to launch new funding opportunities to support investments in a diverse semiconductor workforce – including through investing in Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic Serving Institutions, Asian American Native American Pacific Islander Serving Institutions, and Tribal Colleges and Universities – to increase equitable access to STEM education in the United States and Kenya.  In addition, NSF has committed to offering workshops, planning grants, and providing supplements to U.S. universities for research and education to strengthen connections between U.S. and Kenyan universities.
• Semiconductor Network and Welcome Corps at Work :  The United States welcomes Micron’s launch of its MSI Semiconductor Network comprised of 16 leading universities across the United States, which seeks to feature collaboration between select MSIs with universities in Kenya to develop the next generation of the semiconductor workforce from underrepresented communities.  Through funding opportunities made available by NSF, GlobalFoundries, and Micron, MSIs – like those that are a part of Micron’s MSI network – can increase access to equitable education, address student programming, and strengthen infrastructure.  The company also announced a partnership with the International Rescue Committee and Talent Beyond Boundaries, through Welcome Corps at Work, to recruit individuals from refugee and immigrant communities across East Africa, including Kenya, to fill semiconductor technician and engineer roles.
• Expanding Semiconductor Fabrication:  USTDA signed an MOU with the Government of Kenya and committed $1.3 million to support Semiconductor Technologies Limited’s expansion of its fabrication of legacy semiconductor chips at commercial scale.
• Enhancing Cybersecurity Cooperation:
• Improving Cybersecurity :  The United States, Kenya, and Google announced a joint effort to help launch a cybersecurity operations platform to improve the security of Kenya’s digital infrastructure, including an initial pilot project to enhance the resilience of Kenya’s e-government services.  Google also highlighted solutions for incident response and resilience-building measures.  Separately, Microsoft has agreed to create a new program to upskill Kenyans through free online certifications to help Kenya fortify its resilience against evolving cyber threats and support AI training and research.  In collaboration with the Government of Kenya and the University of Nairobi, Cisco launched in April 2024 its Cybersecurity Training and Experience Center in Kenya, the first on the African continent.  The Center is supporting the East African digital ecosystem, providing critical cybersecurity skills for future tech leaders. 
• Kenya Regional Cyber Sector Collaboration Symposium:   The United States and Kenya, in collaboration with the Software Engineering Institute, plan to hold a regional event later this year focused on enhancing information sharing between cybersecurity incident response teams to enable a more resilient cyberspace in East Africa.
• Commercial Law Development Program Advisory Support:   As a collaborative effort between the Departments of State and Commerce, the United States intends to provide policy and regulatory advisory services to support secure and trusted ICT ecosystems in Kenya.  Support includes policy and legislative reform advisory services, consultative meetings, capacity-building workshops, and multi-stakeholder engagement at international events. 
• Promoting Digital Connectivity:
• Expanding Digital Connectivity:   Google announced an investment in digital connectivity for Africa Connect, creating the first intercontinental fiber optic route in the southern hemisphere between Kenya and the Asia Pacific region.  The terrestrial portion of Africa Connect has regional breakout points which enable trusted connectivity from Kenya to Uganda, Rwanda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa and Google’s Africa Cloud Region. 
• Fiber Backbone and Access Network Expansion:  USTDA recently announced funding for a $1.13 million feasibility study to help Bandwidth and Cloud Services Group (BCS) expand its operations to provide new and affordable broadband network access to thousands of individuals across East and Central Africa.  This grant facilitates the expansion of BCS’s fiber backbone and access network in Kenya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, and Uganda.  In turn, the expansion should enable other internet service providers to make new investments that can provide affordable fixed wireless access for an even larger consumer market.
• Affordable Urban Internet Connectivity:   USTDA recently announced $1.26 million in funding for a feasibility study to assess market opportunities across Africa in support of Kenya-based Poa Internet’s delivery of affordable fixed wireless internet access.  The grant aims to evaluate the viability of expanding internet access to an additional one million households in low-income urban communities across the continent.
• Bridging the Digital Divide Reverse Trade Mission Series:   USTDA announced two upcoming reverse trade missions to introduce public and private sector representatives from Kenya and Tanzania to the latest U.S. technologies, services, and financing solutions for last-mile connectivity and cybersecurity.  Both reverse trade missions are focused on expanding internet access and improving cybersecurity governance, while increasing the likelihood that these digital transformation projects are implemented using U.S. technologies and services.
• Mombasa to Malaba Fiber and Tower Infrastructure :  At the 2024 AmCham East Africa Business Summit, USTDA announced $1.2 million to address Kenya’s internet affordability gap.  USTDA’s grant to the Wilken Group enables evaluation of the development of fiber optic infrastructure and a series of 5G-capable towers along the Meter Gauge Railway between the cities of Mombasa and Malaba.
• Africa Cross-Continental Fiber Backbone :  At the 2024 AmCham East Africa Business Summit, USTDA announced $1.3 million in funding for a feasibility study for CSquared to assess plans for a cross-continent fiber optic backbone from East Africa to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  The fiber optic backbone would help hundreds of thousands of Africans gain access to affordable broadband for the first time.  USTDA’s grant also aims to establish city-level fiber networks and last-mile connectivity to commercial buildings and homes.
• Last-Mile Internet:  The Government of Kenya and Microsoft continue to collaborate to increase internet connectivity in Kenya and throughout the region, including by bringing last-mile wireless internet access to 20 million Kenyans and 50 million people across East Africa by the end of 2025.
• Digital Transformation with Africa (DTA) Partnership with the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI):  DTA intends to provide $1 million to YALI’s Regional Leadership Center (RLC) in Kenya to expand digital skills and literacy, support digital entrepreneurs and start-ups, and increase private sector engagement across East Africa.  This activity should inform additional DTA-YALI activities with other RLCs in Ghana, Senegal, and South Africa, benefiting young African leaders in 49 countries.
• Construction of Green Data Center for Cloud Services :  The government of Kenya and Microsoft announced they are joining a partnership that plans to construct a 1-gigawatt datacenter in Naivasha, Kenya.  The data center will be run on Microsoft Azure cloud services and offer access to cloud-based applications and services to organizations and individuals in Kenya and East Africa – allowing the Government of Kenya to move its data and services to trusted vendors.  The data center will be powered entirely by geothermal energy and will feature state-of-the-art water conservation technology to minimize water use. 
• M-KOPA:   DFC announced a $51 million loan to Kenyan company M-KOPA to support the financing of up to $210 million of smartphone receivables, and cash loans, increasing the affordability of devices to low-income borrowers.
• Establishing Strategic Dialogue on AI :  The governments of the United States and Kenya established a Strategic Dialogue on AI to discuss deepening our collaboration to ensure the development and deployment of safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems.  This dialogue focuses on spurring innovation, bolstering sustainable and inclusive economic growth, promoting digital transformation, overcoming digital divides, and advancing democracy, equity, and universal human rights.  The Dialogue offers the opportunity to discuss and coordinate policies around the national security implications of AI and associated technologies.  The inaugural Strategic Dialogue on AI meeting is scheduled to take place in late 2024.
• Collaboration between the U.S. AI Safety Institute and Kenya’s Imagine Tech and Action Lab :  The U.S. AI Safety Institute and Kenya’s equivalent Imagine Tech and Action Lab plan on future collaboration to advance scientific research for AI safety, develop guidance for safety evaluations and mitigations, and work towards interoperable standards.  This collaboration fosters connections between our talent, resources, and capacity in order to harness the benefits of AI safety for all.  Through this collaboration, Kenya intends to join a growing global scientific network of institutes focused on AI safety and committed to international cooperation.

Peace and Security Cooperation:  Protecting People Across the Globe  

Decades of strong security cooperation between the United States and Kenya have played a critical role in East Africa and beyond.  This partnership extends to areas including international peacekeeping, peace negotiations, security governance, refugee inclusion, and cooperation in cybersecurity.  The U.S.-Kenya partnership plays a central role in international efforts to defeat al-Shabaab, ISIS elements based in East Africa, and other terrorist organizations.  The United States is also firmly committed to supporting Kenya in its deployment to lead the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission to Haiti, providing much needed security assistance to the Haitian people.

• Elevating our Bilateral Relationship:   In a powerful symbol of the close relationship between the United States and Kenya, today President Biden is informing Congress he intends to designate Kenya as a Major Non-NATO Ally.  This designation is granted by the United States to countries with close and strategic working relationships with the U.S. military and defense civilians.  The United States has a deep respect for Kenya’s contributions to global peace and security.  This is the first designation of a sub-Saharan Africa nation as a Major Non-NATO Ally.
• Promoting Peace and Security:  To further strengthen and amplify Kenya’s regional role in peace negotiations and mediation, the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Conflict and Stabilization Operations is funding the Public International Law and Policy Group’s 12-month training program to establish an effective mediation/negotiations support unit in the Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs Peace and Security Directorate.
• Leading on Refugee Response:  The United States and Kenya reiterate the importance of building a strong asylum system, partnering on social and economic integration of refugees and host communities, and supporting the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program.  Over the past 10 years, the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration provided more than $667 million in humanitarian assistance in Kenya.  This funding supports basic needs, protection, and durable solutions for refugees and other vulnerable populations and promotes economic and financial inclusion for refugees and their Kenyan host communities.  In recognition of the importance of responsibility sharing and advancing solutions in protracted displacement, the United States has resettled more than 26,000 third country refugees from Kenya since 2014.
• Investing in the Security Sector:  The United States is making long-term investments in Kenya’s defense capabilities, including by building border security capabilities, increasing maritime security awareness, improving peacekeeping capacity, supporting humanitarian response, and strengthening civilian and military defense institutions.  The United States has invested heavily in Keya’s defense capabilities, providing over $230 million in civilian security and defense sector funding since 2020, with a strategic focus on our shared counterterrorism interests, including a robust partnership with the Massachusetts National Guard under the State Partnership Program. 
• Working Together to Bring Peace to Haiti:  The United States reaffirmed its support for Kenya’s plan to deploy 1,000 police to Haiti as part of the MSS mission to Haiti to help bring security and stability to the Caribbean nation.  Answering the call from Haiti and the international community, Kenya has pledged lead an international force as authorized by a UN Security Council Resolution 2699.
• Bolstering Criminal Justice System Response to Counter Terrorism:   Consistent with the vision President Biden laid out at the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit, the State Department Bureau of Counterterrorism announced $18.7 million to help build the Kenyan criminal justice system’s ability to address terrorism threats in a manner consistent with the rule of law.  The funds provide training, mentorship, and equipment to investigators, forensic examiners, law enforcement, court officials, and prosecutors.  The programming also promotes the U.S. Strategy on Women, Peace, and Security through specialized training and mentorship for female law enforcement officers in Kenya engaged in counterterrorism efforts and capacity-building measures to improve the meaningful participation of women in peace and security.
• Countering Terrorism:  Underscoring our shared commitment in the fight against terrorism, U.S. and Kenyan officials plan to sign a Memorandum of Understanding to expand the Manda Bay Airfield in coastal Kenya by building a 10,000-foot runway.  The expanded facility provides Kenya the required infrastructure to increase operations against the terrorist group al-Shabaab.
• Deepening Cooperation on Information Sharing:  The two countries have committed to deepen cooperation on counterterrorism information sharing to constitute a comprehensive response to the international terrorist threat.  Additionally, Kenya is in the process of joining Operation Gallant Phoenix, a program that advances multinational collaboration and sharing of terrorist information to build mutual capacity to collect and use battlefield evidence in civilian criminal justice proceedings in a multiagency, multinational setting.  These initiatives should help both countries better protect our borders and our citizens from terrorist actors.
• Refurbishing and Delivering Helicopters:  Kenya is scheduled to receive 16 U.S.-manufactured helicopters between late 2024 and summer 2025 to bolster its ability to provide regional peace and security (8 Hueys) and participate in peacekeeping missions (8 MD-500s). 
• Continuing Military Procurement:  Kenya has one of the largest U.S. Foreign Military Sales portfolios in Africa.  Kenya selected approximately 150 M1117 Armored Security Vehicles from U.S. Excess Defense Article stocks, which are projected to arrive in Kenya September 2024.
• Collaborating in Military Exercises:  The United States welcomesKenya’s hosting of and participation in some of the largest U.S. military exercises in Africa, including Exercise JUSTIFIED ACCORD – the second largest U.S. military exercise in Africa – and Exercise CUTLASS EXPRESS, which focuses on building interoperability amongst multinational partners in the maritime environment.
• Deepening A Legacy of Military Training and Capacity Building:  In summer 2024, for the first time the Kenya Defence Forces have candidates starting courses at the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, and the U.S. Air Force Academy, building on a long tradition of the majority of Kenyan general officers benefitting from U.S. International Military Education Training courses.  The U.S. military currently has seven advisors in Kenya supporting Kenyan aviators and for the first time, the United States is providing a Strategic Logistics Advisor to Kenya’s Ministry of Defence.  Kenya’s U.S.-trained Disaster Response Battalion has also been involved in recent search and rescue operations in response to recent flooding in Kenya.

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Why the price of popular spirits could double

The danger with prices of legitimate alcohol going up is that more consumers might be drawn to the illicit variety, which poses serious health risks.

• Proposed amendments to excise duty requirements for alcoholic beverages in Kenya will hit the alcohol manufacturing sector hard
• This change will significantly affect the cost of 40% alcohol by volume - spirits, the most consumed alcoholic beverages in the market
• Kenya already faces a crisis with 59% of all alcohol consumed being illicit, with the majority being in the form of spirits

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This year’s Finance Bill has proposed amendments to excise duty requirements for alcoholic beverages that will hit the alcohol manufacturing sector hard.

In what has been touted as a measure to combat sale and consumption of illicit brews, the Bill proposes a change that prevents local manufactures from claiming back excise on inputs used in manufacturing alcohol.

These inputs include ethanol, glass, concentrates and sugar, where Kenya does not have the capacity to produce glass locally or manufacture industrial sugar.

Ethanol, for example, is moving to an alcohol by volume (ABV) calculation – currently paid at Sh356 per litre, which manufacturers are currently able to claim back.

Manufacturers will be required to pay tax for inputs as well as the finished product resulting in double taxation.

Under Finance Bill 2024, the excise duty on ethanol will increase to Sh1,600, and manufacturers will not be able to claim it. The cost will, therefore, have to pass on to customers.

Kenyans could lose jobs in manufacturing

The change will majorly affect beverages at 40% alcohol by volume - spirits, which are the most consumed in the market.

Where local manufacturers have been subject to an excise rate of Sh356, it has increased to Sh640 for the finished product.

“If we take in the Excise Duty on the finished product, it moves to KSh400. If we include, now that we can’t claim back the input cost that we paid on the ethanol, it moves to KSh770 for a 250-ml bottle,” EABL Corporate Communications Director Eric Kiniti illustrated in the case of Chrome Vodka.

He adds: “We are actually going to affect local manufacturing because it will be easier for us to import and not produce locally because your costs of production are so high and prohibitive that you cannot get a selling price that is competitive in the market.”

The Bill’s provision will make the local manufacturing of spirits untenable and could force manufacturers to relocate to other countries, which means job cuts in Kenya.

Kenya is already facing a crisis because of the prevalence of illicit liquor. A study conducted by Euromonitor International in 2023 found that 59% - more than half - of all alcohol consumed in Kenya is illicit. The majority of these illicit varieties of alcohol is in the form of spirits.

Of the 154 million litres of alcohol that are sold in Kenya in a year, 89.8 million litres are illicit, with sales of the questionable alcohol growing by 63% between 2021 and 2022, the period when the research was carried out.

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5 reasons why Kenya’s state visit to US is a big deal

T heGrio was on the ground as Kenya President William Ruto visited the White House for a range of engagements with the Biden-Harris administration.

TheGrio was on the ground as the Biden-Harris administration welcomed Kenya President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto to the White House for a series of engagements to celebrate 60 years of bilateral partnership between the two nations.

On Thursday, the White House held an arrival ceremony for President and First Lady Ruto. Hundreds gathered on the South Lawn, adorned with American and Kenyan flags.

In an apparent effort to connect the Black diaspora between African-Americans and Kenyans, the White House invited the Howard University gospel choir to serenade attendees with soulful renditions of the Black national anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” and other gospel selections.

During his opening remarks, Biden named the United States and Kenya two “proud democracies” committed to leaning on the “power of the people and the strength of our diversity.” The president said that after six decades, the two nations are ready to “write the next chapter and our partnership together” amid modern and historic global challenges and strategic goals related to climate change, economic growth, technological advancement, and more. 

“The past is our proof that we are stronger and the world is safer when Kenya and the United States work together,” the president said.

Here are five reasons why Kenya’s state visit this week is a big deal both domestically and globally. 

Kenya hasn’t had a state visit since 2008

Kenya’s official state visit marks the first such visit in nearly 20 years and is the first African nation to make an official state visit since President Joe Biden entered office. The last time a Kenyan president came to the White House for a state visit was in 2008 under President George W. Bush. 

The White House rolled out the red carpet for Kenya’s president, first lady, and delegation, which will culminate with an elegant candle-lit state dinner Thursday night. TheGrio attended a preview of the dinner with First Lady Jill Biden, who shared the decor and dinner menu for dinner guests. The summer-inspired menu included chilled green tomato soup, lobster, and short ribs on top of kale, corn puree, roasted turnips, sweet potatoes, and squash, and a white chocolate basket with fruits for dessert.  

Kenya visit follows unfulfilled promise from Biden

President Ruto’s state visit invitation came more than a year after President Biden convened 49 African leaders for the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit , where he committed to visiting Africa. A U.S. president has not stepped foot in Sub-Saharan Africa since President Barack Obama visited Kenya and Ethiopia in 2015.

Amid global crises in Ukraine and Gaza and only months until Election Day, it was unlikely that Biden would be able to travel to Africa before the end of his term. Some saw the Kenya state visit as a constellation for Biden’s unfulfilled promise. On Thursday, the White House announced that if President Biden is reelected in November, he will travel to Africa in February 2025. Such a U.S. visit would signal America’s commitment to expanding its diplomatic relations with the continent.

In the absence of President Biden visiting the continent, Vice President Kamala Harris visited Ghana, Tanzania and Zambia. Other Biden-Harris officials who visited Africa include First Lady Biden, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, and Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan.

Biden aims to bolster Africa on the global stage

President Biden has sought to boost Africa’s global standing through the U.S.’ renewed partnership with Kenya and other African nations. In 2022, he called for the African Union to become a permanent member of the G20 group of the world’s largest economies. 

“Africa belongs to the table in every room … where global challenges are being discussed, and in every institution where discussions are taking place,” Biden said at the time. 

On Thursday, during Ruto’s state visit, Biden continued his commitment to centering Africa by announcing that he would designate Kenya as a major non-NATO ally, which would come with some defense trade benefits.

Additionally, the U.S. has invested more than $300 million toward the Kenya-led security mission into Haiti to help quell the violence that has overtaken the Caribbean nation amid political instability and economic turmoil. Though the military mission has been criticized by some Haitian advocates, Pan-African activists have applauded the effort.

Joseph Tolton, an African policy expert and executive director of the advocacy group Interconnected Justice, told theGrio that he appreciates “the Pan-African sensibility” and “the fact that an African nation is going into Haiti to try to stabilize the country and bring peace.”

Kenya embraces U.S. vision of democracy 

As threats to democracy as an institution spread around the world amid government coups, neighboring invasions like in Ukraine, and the rise of authoritarian regimes, President Ruto, during his U.S. trip, reiterated his commitment to protecting democracy globally. 

Tolton, who was present for Ruto’s visit to the Carter Center in Atlanta on Monday, told theGrio that the Kenyan leader’s full-throated commitment to democracy was significant as authoritarianism spreads across the continent amid major conflicts that have resulted in political coups and democratic declines. 

“He knows what’s happening in our body politic and the threat that Trump is, and so for him to be so clear in that regard, I thought was of note that he’s clearly going to align himself with democracy going into our election,” said Tolton. 

In a United States-Kenya Joint Leaders’ statement released on Thursday, both Biden and Ruto said they are committed to “upholding the human rights of all,” including women and marginalized groups, and bolstering the “integrity of democratic institutions.”

Even as an anti-LGBTQ bill moves through Kenya’s Parliament, Tolton expressed optimism that Ruto’s commitment to democracy and upholding human rights gives the U.S. leverage to convince the Kenyan president not to sign such a bill into law. President Biden’s administration has been a vocal opponent of a similar bill in Uganda, which resulted in the African country being sanctioned by the U.S.

“Perhaps the leverage that the United States can help to give him is deepening our economic ties with Kenya because their economy is reeling at the moment,” said Tolton.  

Economic relief and growth for Kenya and Africa

Though Kenya has emerged as a leader in clean energy and digital transformation in AI and beyond, the nation has been economically crippled by crushing debt. In concert with President Ruto’s state visit, President Biden called on creditor nations to lessen the economic load for Kenya and other developing nations. 

The president’s proposals include providing better financing terms and incentivizing private investments. The White House also committed billions of dollars in lending to international financial institutions and called for other nations to do the same. Additionally, Biden’s administration committed to increasing trade and investment with Kenya, which would benefit workers, consumers, and businesses. The two nations said they are working toward finalizing an agreement by the end of 2024. 

Looking toward building Kenya’s economic future, the U.S. is also leading public-private investments in the African nation’s education and health sectors. To learn about the commitments of the U.S.-Kenya partnership, visit the White House’s fact sheet here .

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Kenyan President’s State Visit: An Antidote to U.S. Troubles in Africa?

The White House is hosting President William Ruto of Kenya for a state dinner this week, an embrace that both countries urgently need.

By Declan Walsh

Reporting from Nairobi, Kenya

As other African nations move away from the United States, disillusioned with democracy or lured by rival powers, President William Ruto of Kenya arrives in Washington on Wednesday for a three-day state visit intended to showcase a stalwart American ally on the continent.

A spate of military coups , shaky elections and raging wars have upended Africa’s political landscape in the past year, giving an edge to American rivals like Russia and China, but also shredding Washington’s key selling point: that democracy delivers.

In Niger, a recently installed military junta has asked American troops to leave . Relations with once-firm American allies like South Africa and Ethiopia are decidedly cool. A recent election in Senegal , long considered a beacon of stability, nearly went off the rails .

Mr. Ruto, the Biden administration hopes, is the antidote to those troubles.

Since he came to power two years ago, Mr. Ruto, 57, has pulled Kenya, the economic powerhouse of East Africa, ever closer to the United States. His visit is just the sixth state visit hosted by the Biden administration, and the first for an African president since 2008.

In some respects, President Biden is atoning for a broken promise. At a high profile Africa summit in Washington in December 2022, Mr. Biden declared he was “all in” on Africa, and pledged to make a visit to the continent in the following year. The trip never materialized.

In choosing Mr. Ruto, the Biden administration is confirming that it views the Kenyan leader as one of its closest security, diplomatic and economic partners in Africa.

The two countries cooperate closely to fight militants with Al Shabab in Somalia. American corporate giants like Google have sizable operations in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, which is also a hub of diplomatic efforts to end the chaos in neighboring countries like Sudan, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Very soon, Kenya is expected to start deploying 1,000 paramilitary police officers to help quell unrest Haiti — a dangerous mission largely funded by the United States and one which runs significant political risks for Mr. Ruto if Kenyan personnel are injured or killed.

And Mr. Ruto has adroitly garnered American support for his outspoken advocacy on global issues like debt relief, reform of international financial institutions and climate change, on which he is attempting to carve out a reputation as Africa’s leading statesman.

“We live the nightmare of climate change every day,” he said in an interview with The New York Times on Sunday, hours before he flew to the United States. Nearly 300 Kenyans died in the past month as heavy rains lashed the country , causing floods that forced hundreds of thousands from their homes.

“A year ago we were deep in drought,” he said during the interview, speaking in an open pavilion next to State House, his official residence in Nairobi, as thunder rolled and more rain fell. “This is the case of many countries on the continent.”

It’s not many years since Mr. Ruto was considered part of the problem in Kenya. A decade ago he was on trial at the International Criminal Court , facing accusations of orchestrating post-election violence that left over 1,100 Kenyans dead. At the trial, his lawyer was Karim Khan, currently the court’s prosecutor. The United States backed the prosecution, seeing it as a chance to end impunity in Kenya’s political class.

But the trial collapsed in 2016, after witnesses disappeared or changed their testimony, and Mr. Ruto’s electoral triumphs eclipsed the trial at home: He was elected vice-president in 2013 and 2018, and then president in 2022.

“So much was said about who we were in that episode,” he said, referring also to former President Uhuru Kenyatta who faced similar charges. “But doesn’t it strike you that finally we were elected by the same people we were being accused of harming? That tells you the whole narrative was false.”

An American official, who requested anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media, said that Mr. Ruto had been privately urged to confront indirectly what was described as his “I.C.C. hangover” early into his visit. At his first speech on Monday, at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Museum and Library in Atlanta, he vowed to keep Kenya “on the path of an open society, strongly committed to greater accountability and transparency, with robust engagement of civil society.”

Mr. Ruto also needs the trip to succeed. As he has made about 50 foreign trips since 2022, gathering support for his ideas, his popularity at home has plunged. Faced with a crippling debt crisis — Kenya owes about $77 billion — Mr. Ruto introduced tax hikes that brought cries of protest from his citizens.

Some Kenyans call him “Zakayo,” in reference to the biblical tax collector Zacchaeus. The reference makes him smile. “I have been very candid with the people of Kenya that I cannot continue to borrow money,” he said, predicting he would eventually win over his critics.

Still, time is running short, and Mr. Ruto’s big idea for turning around the economy is to ride the wave of green energy. Over 90 percent of Kenya’s energy comes from renewable sources — mostly wind and geothermal springs — a natural advantage Mr. Ruto hopes to leverage to convert Kenya into an industrial powerhouse.

He wants foreign companies to move to Kenya, where their products would be carbon neutral. He is also selling Kenya as an enormous carbon sink, tapping into the nascent industry of sucking carbon from the atmosphere, then burying it deep in the rock formations of the Rift Valley.

“ How do we move Africa from a continent of potential to a continent of opportunity and finally to a continent of investment?” he said. Last month, Microsoft and two other firms announced they were building a 1 gigawatt data center, powered by renewable energy in Naivasha, 40 miles northwest of Nairobi.

Still, Mr. Ruto’s embrace of Washington and democracy are not universally popular in Africa. Disillusionment with sham elections and corrupt elites has fed young people’s support for recent military coups in countries like Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger.

“There is a perception that democracy hasn’t delivered, that elites which had come to power through elections were not delivering,” said Murithi Mutiga, Africa director at International Crisis Group. Yet, he added, Kenya’s example of stability and steady growth proved that while democracy can be “messy, difficult, noisy and tough,” it still works.

Mr. Ruto is scheduled to spend much of Wednesday with members of Congress. On Thursday he lays a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery before meetings with Mr. Biden and a state dinner at the White House. The pomp and prestige is a major prize for a first-term president who, critics charge, has a strong authoritarian streak.

Last year Mr. Ruto launched public attacks on judges whose rulings obstructed his policies, reviving fears he could eventually take Kenya down an authoritarian route.

And like other African leaders, he is not afraid to play the field of foreign suitors.

Last year, to American dismay, Mr. Ruto hosted President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran, who was killed in a helicopter crash on Sunday, and foreign minister Sergei V. Lavrov of Russia. In October, Mr. Ruto flew to Beijing for a three-day state visit to China.

Mr. Ruto dismissed the suggestion that he is a darling of the West, or anyone else.

“This is not about taking sides,” he said. “It’s about interests. There’s absolutely no contradiction to working with different countries. It’s just common sense.”

  More about Declan Walsh

Kenyan president's visit: A snub, a state dinner and a major 'non-NATO' ally designation

Lawmaker calls it an 'affront to american diplomacy' for house speaker mike johnson to not invite president william ruto to give an address to a joint session of congress.

WASHINGTON — What's on the menu at the White House for visiting Kenyan President William Ruto: Smoked short ribs and buttered lobster. What's not on the menu: An invitation for the African leader to address a joint session of Congress.

That missing course has left many lawmakers fuming.

Even as President Joe Biden gets ready to treat Ruto and his wife, Rachel, to a sumptuous state dinner Thursday night, some fear the absence of an honor that has been accorded to all recent visiting heads of state could leave a bitter aftertaste.

Many prominent lawmakers are upset over House Speaker Mike Johnson's rejection of a joint meeting of Congress with Ruto, which was proposed by the House Committee on Foreign Affairs to "underscore the importance of the U.S-Kenya relationship." His office cited "scheduling" issues for the denial.

Ruto’s trip is the first state visit by a Kenyan president to the United States in two decades and the first by an African leader since 2008. The last African leader to address Congress was Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf who spoke in the House chamber in 2006.

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'Affront to American diplomacy'

In a letter to Johnson, Rep. Steven Horsford, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, called the move an "affront to American diplomacy," adding that it was "especially troubling" given that other heads of state who have come to the U.S. for an official visit during the 118 th Congress have been invited to address Congress.

The letter, signed by more than 60 members of the Congressional Black Caucus, including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, demanded that Ruto be "treated with the same respect granted to other heads of state."

Recent heads of state including Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kashida, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Israeli President Isaac Herzog, and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol have all addressed the joint session of Congress.

"Failing to invite President Ruto sends a dangerous message to the world," Horsford wrote. "About which countries the United States Congress deems worthy of addressing Congress and diminishes the importance of our nation’s relationship with the continent of Africa."

Lawmakers warn 'adversaries' are working to dent U.S. alliances

Asked about his decision, Johnson’s office sent a statement to USA TODAY saying "scheduling restraints" were the reason for the lack of invitation.

“We offered the Kenyan embassy over 90 minutes of engagement including a one-on-one visit with Speaker Johnson, bipartisan leadership meeting with Speaker Johnson, Leader Jeffries, and Committee Chairmen and Ranking Members, and a bicameral meeting,” the statement said of the meeting that took place on Wednesday.

Democratic Rep. Barbara Lee, along with other lawmakers, also wrote to Johnson pointing out how "adversaries" like China, Russia, and Iran were working to subvert America’s alliances, particularly in Africa.

The East African nation, which is getting ready to deploy its police force in Haiti as the Caribbean country deals with the ongoing gang crisis, is emerging as a vital African partner to the U.S. Johnson’s choice not to provide Ruto the opportunity to address Congress helps create an opening for autocratic adversaries to make inroads in African public opinion, lawmakers warned, adding: "The people of Kenya deserve more respect."

Ruto’s visit marks 60 years of official U.S.-Kenya partnership “founded on shared values, deep cooperation, and a common vision for the future,” according to the White House. Biden is also expected to inform Congress on Thursday that he intends to designate Kenya as a major “non-NATO Ally." It's a designation granted by the United States to countries with close and strategic working relationships with the U.S. military and defense civilians.

Among other partnerships the two countries will work on include global peace and security, economic development, human rights, and tackling the climate crisis.

The state dinner, a glamorous diplomatic tool, will set the stage for a “friendship that will endure, helping create a shining and prosperous tomorrow,” said first lady Jill Biden.

Roses and orchids

On Thursday night, guests will dine under the stars, in a pavilion made of glass and glowing with candles.

The décor for the evening reflects the first lady's love of candlelight which she favors to make guests feel as if they're at home, even when they're part of a large group, said Bryan Rafanelli, the event planner for the evening.

The space, saturated with warm pinks and reds, will be decorated with roses and orchids representing the United States and Kenya.

"As guests leave their path illuminated by our one moon," said Biden. "I hope they will be filled with the same warmth that I felt on my visits to Kenya.”

S wapna Venugopal Ramaswamy is a White House correspondent for USA TODAY.   You can follow her on X, formerly Twitter, @SwapnaVenugopal