A TikToker recently shared her surprising ordeal of being arrested for simply holding hands with her boyfriend in the bustling streets of Nairobi’s CBD. As bizarre as it sounds, the comment section exploded with similar stories of people being apprehended for the same reason and yes, holding hands! What might seem like a harmless gesture in other parts of the world can get you in trouble in Kenya.
It may sound absurd, but as the saying goes, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” In Kenya, you’d better be familiar with the quirks of the law or risk landing yourself in a situation as strange as this one.
Public displays of affection, like hand-holding, can be considered “disturbing the public peace,” making it something to avoid unless you’re ready for an impromptu trip to a police station.
This is just the tip of the iceberg regarding Kenya’s peculiar petty laws. For example, whistling after dark in some regions is a no-no, as local folklore believes it attracts evil spirits and, apparently, law enforcement.
If you’re walking with a camel on a highway, that too can get you into trouble. It turns out camels have their own spaces, and busy roads aren’t one of them. Even stepping on a coin or any form of currency is taken seriously as an insult to the state, so be mindful of where your feet land!
Statues are also sacred territory. Sitting on or climbing a public monument isn’t just disrespectful as it is illegal. So, unless you want to share a selfie with a law officer, it’s best to admire the art from a distance.
If you’re a fan of chewing and spitting in public, think again spitting is considered a public nuisance that can result in fines or even an arrest. As odd as these laws may sound, they’re part of Kenya’s unique legal landscape. So, whether you’re a local or a tourist, it’s good to know the ropes. Holding hands may not be the worst thing to worry about, but better safe than sorry!