Kenya issues safety advisory to nationals in South Sudan as insecurity worsens

JUBA – The Embassy of Kenya in South Sudan has issued a fresh security advisory urging Kenyan nationals living and working in the country to exercise heightened caution amid what it describes as a steadily deteriorating security situation.

In a statement dated January 28, 2026, the Embassy of Kenya in South Sudan warned that armed conflict and general insecurity have intensified since December 2025, raising concerns about the safety of foreign nationals, including Kenyans.

“As you may be aware, the situation in the country has continued to deteriorate due to armed conflicts since December 2025,” the embassy said in the notice addressed to the Kenyan diaspora in South Sudan.

The mission advised Kenyans to take immediate precautionary measures, including avoiding travel to areas affected by fighting. “All Kenyans in South Sudan are therefore advised to avoid travelling to conflict-prone areas or relocate to safe areas where possible,” the statement read.

The embassy further urged Kenyan nationals to remain alert at all times, stressing the importance of personal safety as tensions persist in several parts of the country. “Exercise maximum caution and be conscious of their personal safety, wherever they are,” it added.

Beyond immediate safety guidance, the advisory also highlighted the importance of consular registration. The embassy reminded Kenyans that those living abroad are required to formally register with Kenyan embassies and missions in their countries of residence.

“Please note that Kenyans living in the diaspora are required to register with the Kenyan Embassies and Missions in the respective countries. This enables the Government to offer the requisite Consular Services and facilitate safe passage/evacuation, in case of emergencies,” the statement said.

The warning comes at a time when South Sudan continues to face renewed instability linked to armed confrontations in parts of the country, raising fears of further displacement and disruption to civilian life. Diplomatic missions and humanitarian actors have in recent weeks stepped up advisories to their citizens and staff, citing the fluid security environment.

Kenya has historically maintained a significant presence in South Sudan, with thousands of its citizens engaged in business, construction, transport, humanitarian work, and regional trade. The latest advisory underscores growing regional concern over the security trajectory in the world’s youngest nation.

The Kenyan embassy did not specify whether evacuation plans are currently under consideration, but emphasised that registration would be critical should emergency measures become necessary.