Kenya: Sustainable Blue Economy conference in Nairobi Nov. 26-28

Event

The Sustainable Blue Economy Conference is scheduled to take place in the capital Nairobi from November 26 to November 28. Over 11,000 participants from around the world are expected to attend, including head of states. Most events will take place at the Kenyatta International Convention Center and on the campus of the University of Nairobi. Increased security measures throughout the city, along with hotel room shortages and possible roadblocks in the vicinity of the venues, are to be anticipated. Associated political demonstrations cannot be ruled out.

Context

According to the event website, the purpose of the conference, the first of its kind, is to "learn how to build a blue economy that harnesses the potential of oceans, seas, lakes and rivers to improve the lives of all, particularly people in developing states, women, and youth and Indigenous peoples."

Advice

Individuals present in Nairobi are advised to avoid all large gatherings and the vicinity of the venue sites for the duration of the conference, and to expect traffic delays and heightened security measures in the city center.

Due to the significant terrorist threat, individuals present in Kenya are advised to remain vigilant, to report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities, and to be particularly cautious when visiting sites deemed particularly likely to be targeted in an attack (government buildings, places of worship, tourist sites, etc.).

Due to various security concerns, many Western governments advise against travel to a number of regions in the country, including areas bordering Somalia (parts of Garissa, Mandera, Wajir, and Lamu counties), Ethiopia, and South Sudan. Nonessential travel to the city of Mombasa and several Nairobi neighborhoods (including Eastleigh and Pangani) is also advised against.