The United States Department of State has issued a stern travel advisory urging U.S. citizens to stay away from Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) following violent protests that erupted on Thursday, June 12, 2025. The demonstrations, which began as peaceful rallies, spiraled into chaos, disrupting businesses, transport, and normal activities in the heart of the Kenyan capital.
According to the advisory released through the Bureau of Consular Affairs, the protests have become increasingly dangerous, with reports of tear gas and live ammunition being deployed by security forces to disperse the crowds. The travel alert emphasizes that these conditions pose a significant risk, particularly to U.S. citizens living in or visiting Nairobi.
“Violent protests are currently underway in the Central Business District (CBD) of Nairobi,” the alert reads. “Unverified reports have indicated the use of tear gas and live ammunition.”
Why Are Nairobi Residents Protesting?
The protests, which drew hundreds of demonstrators, were sparked by two major issues that have inflamed public anger:
- The murder of blogger Albert Ojwang’ – The popular blogger’s killing under unclear circumstances ignited outrage among Kenya’s vibrant online and civil society communities. Protesters are demanding justice and swift action by authorities to bring those responsible to book.
- The 2025/2026 Budget proposal – Unveiled before Parliament by Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, the proposed budget has faced criticism for increased taxes and policies seen as burdensome to ordinary citizens. The budget debate added fuel to the fire, with demonstrators expressing frustration over rising living costs.
Protests Turn Chaotic
By Thursday afternoon, what began as a peaceful march turned violent. Eye-witnesses reported clashes between protesters and police near Kenya Cinema and other key CBD landmarks. Anti-riot police fired tear gas canisters to disperse the crowd, with reports of live ammunition being fired into the air to scare off demonstrators.
Disturbing scenes of vandalism and destruction emerged from the protests. Several newly installed public litter bins were uprooted and carried off by protesters, despite warnings from the Nairobi County government less than a month ago about safeguarding public property. In one of the most dramatic incidents, two vehicles were torched amid the chaos near Kenya Cinema, sending plumes of black smoke into the sky and further escalating tensions.
The violence forced many businesses to shut down early, with shop owners hurriedly securing their premises as crowds swelled along major streets such as Moi Avenue, Tom Mboya Street, and Kenyatta Avenue.
U.S. Citizens Urged to Take Precautions
In its travel advisory, the U.S. government has provided specific safety recommendations for American citizens currently in Nairobi:
- Avoid the CBD and areas of protest activity until the situation stabilizes.
- Steer clear of large crowds or gatherings that could turn confrontational.
- Notify friends and family of your whereabouts for safety reasons.
- Carry your U.S. passport and valid Kenyan visa at all times, in case you are asked to identify yourself by authorities.
- Keep vehicle doors locked and windows rolled up when traveling through or near areas where protests are ongoing.
- Monitor local media for updates on the protests and potential changes in security conditions.
These measures, the advisory says, are necessary to minimize the risk of harm as the security situation in Nairobi CBD remains unpredictable.
Impact on Daily Life in Nairobi
The protests caused significant disruption across the CBD. Matatu (public transport) operations were temporarily halted or rerouted to avoid the flashpoints of the unrest. Several roads leading into the CBD were barricaded by police to contain the situation. The usually busy Railway Bus Station and Archives area became almost deserted as people fled the chaos.
Traders along major streets lamented the loss of business on what would otherwise have been a bustling weekday afternoon. “We had to close because it was too risky to stay open,” said James Kariuki, who operates a mobile phone accessories shop along Moi Avenue. “You can’t tell what will happen next.”
Kenyan Authorities Respond
Nairobi police boss Adamson Bungei confirmed that security forces had been deployed across the CBD to restore order. “We are doing everything possible to ensure the safety of the public and property. We urge demonstrators to remain peaceful,” Bungei said during a media briefing.
Meanwhile, the Nairobi County Government condemned the vandalism, warning that anyone caught destroying public property would face the full force of the law. The administration appealed to residents to express their grievances peacefully without resorting to violence and destruction.
What Happens Next?
While calm had been partially restored by Thursday evening, tensions remain high, and the potential for further demonstrations persists. Activists behind the protests have hinted at fresh rallies if their demands are not addressed. Civil rights groups are calling for an independent investigation into Ojwang’s murder and meaningful dialogue between the government and concerned citizens regarding the budget.
Kenyan media and social platforms continue to buzz with updates, photos, and videos from the protest scenes, as well as heated debate over both the murder case and the country’s economic direction.
Advice for Other Foreign Nationals
Although the U.S. travel advisory specifically targets its citizens, nationals of other countries living or working in Nairobi are similarly advised to exercise caution. The British High Commission, Canadian Embassy, and other diplomatic missions in Nairobi have also been monitoring the situation and may issue advisories of their own.
Key Takeaways
- The U.S. government has warned citizens against traveling to Nairobi CBD amid violent protests.
- The demonstrations were triggered by the murder of blogger Albert Ojwang’ and discontent over the 2025/2026 budget.
- Protesters and police clashed in the city center, with tear gas and reports of live ammunition being used.
- Several vehicles were burned, and public property was vandalized.
- U.S. citizens in Nairobi are urged to avoid the CBD, stay alert, and keep in touch with their loved ones.