Kenya/Tanzania: Protest at Namanga border crossing March 27

Event

Violent protests erupted on the morning (local time) of Wednesday, March 27, at Namanga border crossing, resulting in transportation disruptions. Residents on the Kenyan side of the border reportedly burnt tyres on the road leading to the border post to denounce the arrest of a Kenyan resident by the Tanzanian authorities the day prior. Further such protests, along with related transportation disruptions are likely in the coming hours and days.

Context

Namanga is one of the main border crossing post linking Kenya's capital, Nairobi, and Arusha in Tanzania. Traders on the Kenyan side have often denounced harassment by Tanzanian authorities and several standoffs have taken place in recent years.

Advice

Individuals in Namanga are advised to monitor the situation, prepare for longer wait times at the border crossing, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.