Peter Greenberg: Kenya Concerns

By: Peter Greenberg | Source: AARP.org | 2008-04-15

I am scheduled to go to Moshi, Tanzania, on a volunteer vacation for the entire month of May. Should I be concerned about the political situation in Kenya spilling across the border into Tanzania?
-Sue, Buckeye, Ariz.

While the violence in Kenya has calmed down significantly as of late thanks to a new agreement between the conflicting parties, there are still concerns about the safety, security, and political situation there. While the agreement should help ratchet down tensions, next door Tanzania might seem like it would be a prime candidate for a spillover. Fortunately, the odds of this are extremely low.

Tanzania has what is now probably East Africa's most stable, democratic government, led by reformist President Jakaya Kikwete. Ethnic tensions are relatively low, economic growth is rising, and travel is booming. So in answer to your question if you should be concerned: No, you should be concerned with simply enjoying the experience.