The State Department alerts U.S. citizens that the 10th biennial World Trade Organization (WTO) Ministerial Conference is scheduled to take place December 15 - 18, in Nairobi, Kenya.
As with all large public events, there is the opportunity for criminal elements to target participants and other visitors. Large-scale public events, such as the WTO Conference, can be a target for terrorists. U.S. citizens should maintain a high level of security awareness, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive pertinent safety and security information. This Travel Alert expires on December 22, 2015.
Road closures, hotel room shortages, restricted movement in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) and possibly other parts of the city are anticipated during the conference. The already congested CBD will see up to 5,000 official WTO delegates. As with past WTOs, protests, rallies, and demonstrations could occur with little notice. U.S. citizens should exercise vigilance when in public places or using public transportation. Be aware of your immediate surroundings and avoid large crowds and crowded places. Persons with specific safety concerns should contact local law enforcement authorities. U.S. citizens should:
For further information:
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As with all large public events, there is the opportunity for criminal elements to target participants and other visitors. Large-scale public events, such as the WTO Conference, can be a target for terrorists. U.S. citizens should maintain a high level of security awareness, and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive pertinent safety and security information. This Travel Alert expires on December 22, 2015.
Road closures, hotel room shortages, restricted movement in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) and possibly other parts of the city are anticipated during the conference. The already congested CBD will see up to 5,000 official WTO delegates. As with past WTOs, protests, rallies, and demonstrations could occur with little notice. U.S. citizens should exercise vigilance when in public places or using public transportation. Be aware of your immediate surroundings and avoid large crowds and crowded places. Persons with specific safety concerns should contact local law enforcement authorities. U.S. citizens should:
- Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor media and local information sources regarding WTO-related developments and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.
- Be prepared for additional security screening and unexpected disruptions, particularly in central Nairobi.
- Stay in touch with your family members and ensure they know how to reach you in the event of an emergency.
For further information:
- See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Kenya’s Country Specific Information and Travel Warning.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Contact the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi located on United Nations Avenue, Gigiri, Nairobi, at telephone (+254) (20) 363-6000, 7:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Friday. In the event of an after-hours emergency, contact the Embassy duty officer at (+254) (20) 363-6000.
- Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
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