US Embassy Advises American Citizens to Avoid Kisumu Ahead of the Elections
The United States Embassy in Kenya has notified its citizens living in the country to exercise caution when visiting Kisumu County ahead of the General Election which will be held on August 9.
Leah Mukangai 
“Election-related demonstrations and rallies regularly take place in the runup to the election and are likely to continue, at times blocking key intersections and causing traffic jams. Demonstrations may occasionally be violent, requiring police intervention. Strikes and other protest activities related to economic conditions occur regularly,” the embassy stated.
“Out of an abundance of caution, the Embassy has imposed movement restrictions on personnel in Kisumu. The State Department reminds U.S. citizens of the continued need for sustained vigilance,” the embassy added.
To that end, the US Embassy has advised its citizens on how to protect themselves.
Monitoring local media for updates, avoiding crowds, avoiding demonstrations, maintaining a low profile, being aware of their surroundings, being vigilant when visiting banks and ATMs, not displaying signs of wealth such as expensive jewelry or watches, and reviewing personal security plans are among the actions.
American citizens have also been advised to keep their travel documents up to date and easily accessible, to carry proper identification cards, a copy of their US passport's biography page, and a copy of their most recent Kenya visa.
This comes just one day after US Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman reported to work in Kenya.
Welcome to Kenya Ambassador Whitman! ???????????????? pic.twitter.com/uPUxrSERPX
— U.S. Embassy Nairobi (@USEmbassyKenya) August 1, 2022
