Twenty-Second Anniversary of United States Embassy Bombing Remembered

Press Release from Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Today, we sadly recall a somber Friday 7 August 1998, when the United States Embassy here in Nairobi was hit by a most horrific terrorist attack, that left more than 200 dead and another 5,000 injured.

Our country was deeply traumatized because it had never witnessed a vicious terror attack of such magnitude. We remember and honour all who died or were injured. We reminisce too, with their families, friends and colleagues. The pain and horror of that day, was tempered somewhat by the numerous acts of heroism, compassion, and selflessness. So many people assisted the injured, comforted the victims or retrieved the bodies of those who had died.

Since then, Kenya has coordinated several efforts to drain the swamp of violent extremism as well as introduce preventive and counter-terrorism approaches. The Government has increased investments in technology, skills and innovative approaches to counter terrorism. These investments have greatly enhanced the rigorous coordination of activities; with equipment which has been instrumental in the detecting, deterring and disrupting the activities of terrorists.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs as part of this coordination will continue advancing Kenya’s bilateral and multilateral collaboration in the war against terror and assist in aligning Kenya’s operational needs in national strategies and policies.

We warmly appreciate all our friends and partners and the frontline of those who continuously put their lives at risk to combat terrorism and keep our lives and freedoms secure. We encourage continued dialogue by champions who do not tire to articulate the dangers of radicalization and extremism despite the danger they may pose to themselves in this process.