Expert Info
on 23 Sep 2013
Hi there,
I am planning on spending my gap year in Kenya volunteering at an orphanage. I was really excited about the move and discovering a country I have heard such wonderful things about but following the Westgate Mall attacks at the weekend I am starting to rethink my decision to choose Kenya.
Is Nairobi safe for expats ? Do expats still living in Kenya feel safe or are there always security concerns ? Do you think the situation is going to be worse after these Al Shabaab attacks on Westgate Mall? And are expats the target of these violent attacks?
Please provide any insights you may have. I really had my heart set on going to Kenya and really don't want to change my plans unless I will really be in danger.
Thanks
I am planning on spending my gap year in Kenya volunteering at an orphanage. I was really excited about the move and discovering a country I have heard such wonderful things about but following the Westgate Mall attacks at the weekend I am starting to rethink my decision to choose Kenya.
Is Nairobi safe for expats ? Do expats still living in Kenya feel safe or are there always security concerns ? Do you think the situation is going to be worse after these Al Shabaab attacks on Westgate Mall? And are expats the target of these violent attacks?
Please provide any insights you may have. I really had my heart set on going to Kenya and really don't want to change my plans unless I will really be in danger.
Thanks
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Following the Westgate Mall terrorist attacks in Nairobi obviously the security situation in Kenya is tense and the country is on high alert for any further attacks. However, as is the case anywhere in the world, it is difficult to monitor and predict how the situation will pan out in the future.
There are lots of people in a similar situation to you. Take a look at this existing thread.
Its understandable that you are reconsidering making a trip out to Kenya following the al Shabaab attacks. But maybe wait a while and see how the situation unfolds. Also check your country's foreign office advice.
For more information on all safety issues in Kenya as well as the risk for terrorist activity, check out the Safety in Kenya page.
Good luck
I agree that security will be increased following the attacks on Westgate Mall in Nairobi, but I don't think it is safer now. There is also tension amongst citizens to think about and there maybe bad feelings towards foreigners.
safety is biggest concerns for all of us now, no matter where you are. I have been living in Kenya with my husband and two small kids for almost two years now, I had the same concerns before moving in here. I still do have though, but once you make the move, you get to know the culture, country's dynamics, the things you should avoid ( such as going out at night, not driving after dark, staying away some parts of Nairobi, choosing a safe area to live, and more). But I can honestly say, "There is no other place like Africa", (especially after living in western countries), both in good and bad terms. But is not that the case for everywhere? So do not make your decision based on one incidence, look at the big picture, and always do your homework, read a lot and ask a lot:)
best of luck!