Kenya: COVID-19 travel protocols amended as of March 12 /update 39

Event

As of March 12, COVID-19-related international travel restrictions have been amended. All travelers must be fully vaccinated to enter Kenya; exemptions exist. Authorities removed the testing requirement before travel for vaccinated travelers. All exempt unvaccinated travelers are required to take a PCR test not older than 72 hours before departure. These travelers will also be tested upon arrival at their own cost. Other travel requirements remain in place.

International Travel Restrictions
Travelers must upload their negative PCR test certificate and vaccination certificate to the Global Haven portal before boarding their flight; to access the Global Haven website, click here.

Individuals traveling to and transiting Kenya must also complete an International Travelers Health Surveillance Form to receive a quick response (QR) code that is scanned upon arrival. Additionally, travelers must upload their health information to the Jitenge platform/mobile application daily for 14 consecutive days after arrival. To access the health surveillance form and Jitenge platform, click here.

Travelers who have visited or have transited through certain African countries within the previous 14 days are subject to mandatory antigen testing upon arrival; these countries include Botswana, Eswatini, Ghana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Travelers testing positive for COVID-19 are subject to a mandatory quarantine period at their own expense; travelers displaying flu-like symptoms upon arrival, as well as those who develop symptoms consistent with COVID-19 after arrival, may also be subject to COVID-19 testing and isolation at their own expense.

Domestic Measures
A ban on public gatherings and political rallies remains in place; however, weddings and funerals may be held with up to 100 people in attendance. Authorities have advised individuals to work remotely where possible and avoid crowded places.

Wearing a facemask is required in public. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required to access public spaces. Restaurants are permitted to operate provided adherence to public health measures. Many commercial establishments are conducting temperature checks and may require customers to wash their hands before entering.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice, depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all business appointments and travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

World Health Organization (WHO)
Kenyan Ministry of Health
Kenya Civil Aviation Authority
Trusted Travel Initiative