Kenya: Increased security in Turkana county July 1

Event

Local government officials in Turkana county announced on Sunday, July 1, that security measures have been increased in the county following multiple recent protests at oil facilities. On June 27, residents blocked the highway in Lokichar, preventing trucks from transporting oil to Mombasa. Protests were also held on June 29, with demonstrators breaking into an oil storage site in the town. Additional demonstrations, including road blockades, are possible in the coming days and weeks. Clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Residents are protesting general insecurity in Turkana county, as well as other grievances related to job creation, business opportunities, and receiving a share of funds from oil production. Local herders are also calling for the government to protect their cattle against thieves from nearby communities. At least four people have reportedly been killed within the past month by criminals.

Advice

Individuals in Turkana county are advised to avoid all demonstrations and anticipate transportation disruptions near protest sites.

On a separate note, due to the significant terrorist threat and other security concerns, many Western governments advise against travel to a number of regions in the country, including areas bordering Somalia (parts of Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Lamu counties), Ethiopia, and South Sudan, as well as nonessential travel to the city of Mombasa. Several Nairobi neighborhoods, including Eastleigh and Pangani, are also best avoided.