Essential info for Kenya
Time: Local time is GMT +3.
Electricity: UK-style square three-pin plugs are used. Electricity supply is 240 volts, 50Hz.
Language: The official language is English but Swahili is the national language, while 42 ethnic languages are spoken.
Safety Information: There is still tensions following the disputed elections results of 2007. In January 2008, opposition supporters rioted around the country and at least 1,500 people have been killed in political violence. While this violence is not directed at expats the security situation is uncertain. Nairobi has a high crime rate and is notorious for its robberies and muggings. Expats should be alert at all times, especially at night, and should ensure excellent security at their place of residence. There have regrettably been recent armed attacks on golf courses. Mombasa has been scene to a number of knife attacks on tourists and expats in the main south coast tourist areas of Diani and Ukunda. The northern areas of Kenya are subject to banditry and travel there is only advisable with an armed escort. Northeastern Kenya along the Kenya-Somalia border is a very dangerous.
Local Customs: Kenya’s coastal towns are Muslim and expats should therefore respect religious customs and sensitivities. Homosexuality is illegal in Kenya, as is burning the currency and smoking in public places. Tipping is not customary although a 10% service charge will often be added to the bill in upmarket eateries.
Business: Business etiquette in Kenya is formal and conservative. Dress in jacket and tie, and be punctual. Business cards should be exchanged and handshakes are standard. English is the principal language of business. Business hours are usually from 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm Monday to Friday.
Communications: The international access code for Kenya is +254. The outgoing code is 000 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 00027 for South Africa), unless dialling Tanzania or Uganda when the outgoing codes are 007 or 006 respectively. City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)41 for Mombasa and (0)20 for Nairobi. International Direct Dial is available throughout most of the country, but the service is expensive and inefficient. For international operator-assisted calls call 0196. All major urban areas are covered by the mobile network; the local mobile phone operators use GSM networks that have roaming agreements with most international mobile phone operators. Internet cafes are widely available in most towns and tourist areas.
Useful contacts: Kenyan Tourist Board: +254 (0)20 271 1262 or www.magicalkenya.com
Emergencies: 999
Electricity: UK-style square three-pin plugs are used. Electricity supply is 240 volts, 50Hz.
Language: The official language is English but Swahili is the national language, while 42 ethnic languages are spoken.
Safety Information: There is still tensions following the disputed elections results of 2007. In January 2008, opposition supporters rioted around the country and at least 1,500 people have been killed in political violence. While this violence is not directed at expats the security situation is uncertain. Nairobi has a high crime rate and is notorious for its robberies and muggings. Expats should be alert at all times, especially at night, and should ensure excellent security at their place of residence. There have regrettably been recent armed attacks on golf courses. Mombasa has been scene to a number of knife attacks on tourists and expats in the main south coast tourist areas of Diani and Ukunda. The northern areas of Kenya are subject to banditry and travel there is only advisable with an armed escort. Northeastern Kenya along the Kenya-Somalia border is a very dangerous.
Local Customs: Kenya’s coastal towns are Muslim and expats should therefore respect religious customs and sensitivities. Homosexuality is illegal in Kenya, as is burning the currency and smoking in public places. Tipping is not customary although a 10% service charge will often be added to the bill in upmarket eateries.
Business: Business etiquette in Kenya is formal and conservative. Dress in jacket and tie, and be punctual. Business cards should be exchanged and handshakes are standard. English is the principal language of business. Business hours are usually from 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm Monday to Friday.
Communications: The international access code for Kenya is +254. The outgoing code is 000 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 00027 for South Africa), unless dialling Tanzania or Uganda when the outgoing codes are 007 or 006 respectively. City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)41 for Mombasa and (0)20 for Nairobi. International Direct Dial is available throughout most of the country, but the service is expensive and inefficient. For international operator-assisted calls call 0196. All major urban areas are covered by the mobile network; the local mobile phone operators use GSM networks that have roaming agreements with most international mobile phone operators. Internet cafes are widely available in most towns and tourist areas.
Useful contacts: Kenyan Tourist Board: +254 (0)20 271 1262 or www.magicalkenya.com
Emergencies: 999
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