red24: Power Rationing

Red24 is our international personal security advice and response provider. They monitor security activity, incidents, and factors in the region that could have security implications. They then send notifications to their clients of any events that could jeopardize the client's security along with advice to optimize the client's personal safety. Red24 is but one of the ways LCMS World Mission keeps its people safe on the mission field. Today we received the following notification from red24:

Kenya: Authorities are set to impose rolling blackouts across parts of the country as of 27 July as a means of dealing with an ongoing energy supply crisis. The areas likely to be worst affected by the blackouts include the capital, Nairobi, as well as the Rift Valley province and western parts of the country where power rationing is scheduled to take place daily between 18:40 and 21:30. Areas in Nairobi to be particularly affected include the Baba Dogo area which will be subject to power rationing on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays; the industrial area on Tuesdays and Thursdays; and the North Rift area on Tuesdays and Fridays. Authorities further indicated the possibility of regular power outages in parts of western Kenya due to problems in transferring electricity to the area. Power rationing is set to remain in place until at least mid-September. A severe drought in East Africa has led to water shortages at some of Kenya's hydroelectric dams which are believed to be responsible for the bulk of the country's electricity supply. Clients in Kenya should anticipate disruptions to electronic-based services such as banking, fuel dispensing, internet and telecommunications. Furthermore, visitors to the country should be aware that the blackouts may increase levels of criminal activity, particularly in large urban centres such as the capital, Nairobi. As a precaution, travellers should refrain from walking alone after dark and ensure that their places of accommodation are secured at all times. For further information and/or advice call red24... 

Overall this is a fairly mild alert - we've received far more serious ones in the past. But it's never pleasant to hear you may be subject to planned power outages in addition to all the other ones!  -Shauen