Kenya is known as “the cradle of humanity”, its Great Rift Valley being home to the earliest evidence of man’s ancestors. Kenya’s scenic beauty and astonishing wildlife have led tourism to become the major contributor to its GDP. There are some very good private hospitals in Kenya including the Aga Khan Hospital group, but they are relatively expensive. As an expat, for anything other than minor treatment, most people would probably prefer to travel to Europe (or South Africa) and a quality private medical insurance policy is essential.
Although in the past it’s had its share of violent civil unrest, the current political situation is relatively stable. and it is crime that presents the most serious threat to foreign nationals. Mugging, armed robbery and carjacking can happen at any time but are most prevalent in the poorest areas of Nairobi and Mombasa.
Avoid overt displays of wealth, going off the beaten track and do not walk around after dark. Kidnap for ransom is also on the increase and you may want to include provision for this in your Kenya insurance. Public demonstrations do occur and can turn violent so you’re advised to avoid them if possible.
Terrorism presents a potential danger since groups linked to al-Qaeda are known to be active and carried out a major attack in 2002. A new terrorist threat in the capital Nairobi was identified at the beginning of 2012, suggesting that Kenyan institutions, expatriates and foreign travellers may all be possible targets.
The border area with Somalia is to be avoided due to regular attacks by Somali militia. Recent attacks have included the murder of a British national and the abduction of his wife, and the kidnap of a French national. Both attacks were carried out by armed militia making night-time raids on beachfront properties by speedboat.
Piracy is a problem in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean, and shipping or companies involved in anti-piracy measures are advised to take maritime cover, international cargo insurance or specialist personal accident cover.