CANADA ISSUES TRAVEL ADVISORY AHEAD OF SABA SABA PROTESTS IN KENYA

The Canadian Embassy in Kenya has issued a travel advisory to its citizens ahead of the planned Saba Saba protests scheduled for Monday, July 7, 2025.
In the alert released the embassy warned Canadian nationals to exercise heightened caution due to anticipated demonstrations, which could turn violent. The advisory comes in the wake of ongoing public unrest and nationwide protests led primarily by Kenyan youth demanding political and social reforms.
“Demonstrations may occur with little or no notice and have the potential to escalate quickly,” the embassy stated. “You should avoid all protests and large gatherings and follow the advice of local authorities.”
The advisory highlights concerns over possible road closures, curfews, and disruptions to communication and public transport services. It also warns of a heightened risk of crime and violence in protest-prone areas, including parts of Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and other urban centers.
Additionally, the embassy noted existing security concerns in northeastern counties like Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa, where the threat of terrorism and kidnapping remains high.
Canadians in Kenya have been urged to monitor local media, remain vigilant, and register with the embassy to receive timely updates.
Saba Saba Day, commemorated annually on July 7, marks a pivotal moment in Kenya’s pro-democracy movement. This year’s protests are expected to focus on police brutality, governance reforms, and justice for victims of recent killings during demonstrations.
The Canadian government joins other foreign missions, including the U.S. and the U.K., in urging their citizens to stay away from protest sites and avoid unnecessary travel during the period.
For emergencies, Canadians in Kenya are advised to contact the Canadian High Commission in Nairobi or consult the official Government of Canada travel website for updated advisories.