Photography has recently become a prominent part of modern society’s culture due to the high mobile phone adoption and increased social media activities.
People are nowadays capturing their every movement for either content creation, memories or any other use requiring public attention.
However, it is worth noting that there are areas in Kenya where photography is prohibited due to security reasons.
Such areas have warnings reading “No Photography” depicting the high level of caution needed when carrying out activities around them.
These areas are protected under Kenyan law and prohibit unauthorized photography, with people found contravening the directive liable to fines.
Below are some of the areas where photography is prohibited:
State House, Nairobi, and other State Lodges
State House premises, both in Nairobi and Mombasa, are among the prominent areas classified under the category of protected areas.
The two installations, alongside all state lodges in the country, are protected from encroachment and any form of activity that would risk compromising their secrecy and security.
Most commonly used firearms by the Kenya Police
Military Barracks and installations
No one is allowed to take unauthorized photography in any Military barracks or air bases, including the Kenya Defence Forces headquarters in Nairobi.
Anyone wishing to capture a moment is required to seek permission as these installations are usually highly guarded and often have officers manning sentries erected around their premises.
Outside Central Bank of Kenya
The Central Bank of Kenya is one of the heavily guarded premises in Kenya, and unauthorized activities around the area could lead you into trouble.
The apex lender is accorded special security, which includes round-the-clock surveillance of its premises.
Outside Harambee House and Harambee Annex
Located in Harambee Avenue, in Nairobi CBD, Harambee House hosts the Office of the President, while Harambee Annex hosts the Office of the Deputy President.
This explains why photography is prohibited here. The buildings and their premises are usually characterized by meticulous security, including surveillance devices, rooftop snipers, and other means that are confidential to the relevant authorities only.
UN Gigiri Offices and US Embassies
Gigiri hosts prominent offices and installations, including the United States of America Embassy in Kenya. Both the US Embassy and the UN offices are highly guarded and are on the list of protected areas.
Fines and penalties
According to the Protected Areas Act and the Official Secrets Act, contravention of the law could lead to the liability of a fine worth Sh200,000.
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