| This
Public Announcement is being updated to provide additional
information regarding potential terrorist activities in Kenya.
It also reiterates the Department of State’s continuing
concern about the possible heightened risks to American citizens
and interests in Kenya. This Public Announcement supersedes the
Public Announcement of December 24, 2002, and expires on July
17, 2003.
The U.S. Government has
received indications of terrorist threats in the region aimed at
American and Western interests, including civil aviation. The
government of Kenya might not be able to prevent such attacks.
All American citizens considering travel to Kenya are advised to
reevaluate their travel plans in light of the current situation.
On November 28, 2002, there
was a car bomb attack on a hotel near Mombasa, Kenya, in which
15 people were killed, and an unsuccessful attempt to shoot down
an Israeli charter plane departing Mombasa on the same day. The
threat to aircraft by terrorists using shoulder-fired missiles
continues in Kenya, to include Nairobi. These incidents have
highlighted the continuing threat posed by terrorism in East
Africa and the capacity of terrorist groups to carry out
attacks. U.S. citizens should be aware of the risk of
indiscriminate attacks on civilian targets in public places,
including tourist sites and other sites where Westerners are
known to congregate.
American citizens in Kenya
should remain vigilant, particularly in public places frequented
by foreigners, such as hotels and shopping malls, and should
also avoid demonstrations and large crowds. In particular, there
is an increased threat against Westerners in the capital,
Nairobi. Americans residing in and visiting Kenya are especially
advised to reconsider non-essential travel to the coastal
region.
U.S. citizens visiting or
resident in Kenya are encouraged to register with the U.S.
Embassy, where they may obtain updated information on travel and
security within Kenya. Security updates are e-mailed to all
registered Americans on a monthly basis. American citizens may
complete a registration form on-line at http://usembassy.state.gov/nairobi/wwwhcon3.html
or may request one by email at: kenya_acs@state.gov. American
citizens living or traveling in Kenya may call the U.S. Embassy
in Nairobi at 363-6000 during normal business hours; after-hours
phone numbers are 363-6000 and 0722-204-445. |
