Kenya insurance should be a main concern when working in this vibrant and diverse country. Occasional terrorist attacks, the high risk of crime, and the unstable security situation along many of its borders, particularly with Somalia, are of concern. Specialist Kenya insurance is recommended for any high-risk business activity.

Official risk ratings

Accident and Evacuation
Kidnapping and Ransom
Political Risk

Potential problems in Kenya

Although in the past it’s had its share of violent civil unrest, the current political situation in Kenya is relatively stable. The main potential threats come from increasing terrorist activity from the Somali based Islamist group Al Shabaab.

Al Shabab are known to be targeting Kenyan institutions and foreign nationals. They have claimed responsibility for a number of attacks including the Westgate Shopping Centre siege that killed 67 people in September 2013 and other more recent atrocities.

Crime also presents a 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. 

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.

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.