U.S. Embassy in Nairobi Issues Security Alert Ahead of Saba Saba Protests, Advises Americans to Avoid Demonstrations

U.S. Embassy in Nairobi Issues Security Alert Ahead of Saba Saba Protests, Advises Americans to Avoid Demonstrations

The United States Embassy in Nairobi has issued a security advisory urging American citizens living in or travelling within Kenya to exercise heightened caution ahead of the annual Saba Saba commemorations, citing the possibility of demonstrations, increased police deployments and widespread traffic disruptions.

The advisory, issued on July 6, comes as Kenyan authorities intensified security preparations ahead of the planned protests, with police establishing checkpoints across Nairobi and warning of possible disruptions along major roads and within the Central Business District (CBD).

In its notice, the U.S. Embassy cautioned that demonstrations could occur with little or no warning, particularly in commercial centres and along key transport corridors frequently affected during periods of public protest.

“U.S. citizens are advised that around July 7 there may be a heightened security presence. Security checkpoints, traffic disruptions, and congestion may occur. U.S. citizens are reminded that demonstrations may occur at any time, especially in business districts and along key travel routes,”the embassy said in its advisory.

The mission urged Americans to avoid protest gatherings regardless of whether they appear peaceful, noting that demonstrations can quickly escalate and disrupt normal movement.

In addition to avoiding crowds, the embassy advised citizens to closely monitor local media outlets for updates, review their personal security plans and remain vigilant while travelling.

The advisory also encouraged Americans to keep family members and friends informed about their whereabouts, particularly when moving through areas likely to experience heightened security operations.

For those travelling by road, the embassy recommended keeping vehicle doors locked and windows rolled up whenever possible, especially while driving through congested sections of Nairobi.

The mission further reminded U.S. citizens to carry proper identification at all times, including a copy of their passport together with valid Kenyan immigration documents.

The latest advisory comes against the backdrop of increased security operations across Nairobi as police prepare for demonstrations expected to mark Saba Saba Day, a historic occasion associated with Kenya’s struggle for multiparty democracy and, more recently, civic activism and public protests.

On the morning of July 7, major highways leading into Nairobi experienced significant disruptions after police mounted extensive roadblocks and security checkpoints at key entry points into the city.

Traffic slowed considerably along Thika Road, Jogoo Road, Mombasa Road, Waiyaki Way, Lang’ata Road, Kiambu Road and Outer Ring Road, with long queues of vehicles reported as officers conducted security inspections.

Several motorists and public transport users experienced delays, while some commuters were forced to seek alternative routes after access into parts of the Central Business District became heavily restricted.

The heightened police deployment followed an earlier announcement by the National Police Service (NPS) that additional checkpoints would be established to enhance public safety and prevent a repeat of violence experienced during previous demonstrations.

Authorities have maintained that the security measures are intended to protect lives, businesses and critical infrastructure while managing both vehicular and pedestrian movement throughout the city.

The security operation also follows remarks by Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud, who stated that police had not received the notification required under the Public Order Act for the planned demonstrations.

Mohamud warned that any unlawful activities during the protests would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

However, organisers of the demonstrations, including several human rights organisations, have maintained that the protests are lawful and intended to call for accountability over issues such as alleged police killings, enforced disappearances and arbitrary arrests.

The groups insist they submitted the necessary notification to authorities and plan to present a petition to Parliament outlining their concerns.

The U.S. Embassy’s advisory reflects a common practice among foreign diplomatic missions, which routinely issue travel and security guidance to their citizens during periods of anticipated public demonstrations or heightened security operations.

While the advisory does not discourage travel to Kenya, it urges American nationals to remain alert, avoid unnecessary movement near protest areas and follow instructions issued by local authorities should they encounter security operations.

As demonstrations and security deployments continue to unfold, authorities are urging all residents and visitors to remain calm, exercise caution and stay informed through verified official communication channels while planning their movements across Nairobi and other affected areas.

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U.S. Embassy in Nairobi Issues Security Alert Ahead of Saba Saba Protests, Advises Americans to Avoid Demonstrations