The United States Embassy has announced that its consulate office in Nairobi will be closed on Thursday, July 4, 2024, in observance of U.S. Independence Day. Normal services at the Embassy are expected to resume on Friday, July 5, 2024.
The Embassy stated in its notice, “The Embassy will be closed on July 4, 2024, in observance of U.S. Independence Day.” Independence Day in the United States commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. Although the Congress voted for independence from Great Britain on July 2, 1776, the formal Declaration was reviewed and adopted two days later.
While the closure is for the Independence Day celebrations, the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi has also issued advisories to American citizens due to ongoing protests in Kenya. The Embassy noted that, despite organizers of the anti-government demonstrations indicating that the protests would be peaceful, there is potential for them to escalate into violence.
American citizens have been advised to avoid protest areas and large gatherings, maintain a low profile, stay informed through local media, keep their friends and family updated on their whereabouts, and be vigilant of their surroundings. The Embassy also recommended that U.S. citizens review their personal security plans and carry their U.S. passports and Kenyan visas at all times. Additionally, citizens were cautioned about potential traffic disruptions and the risk of opportunistic crimes during the protests.