‘Broke’ US Embassy in Nairobi reduce online updates over budget crisis despite massive visa fees collections

The United States embassy in Nairobi has announced planned reduction of online updates on its platforms over budgetary constraints from Washington despite massive non-refundable revenues collected from visa fee processing charges.

The move will effectively deny the US nationals and other global citizens real time crucial updates over what they termed as “lapse in appropriations” that has constrained its operations.

In a statement issued today, the embassy notified the public that its official X (formerly Twitter) account will not be updated as frequently until full operations resume.

“Due to the lapse in appropriations, this X account will not be updated regularly until full operations resume, with the exception of urgent safety and security information,” it stated.

However, the embassy has assured that while routine updates will slow, essential safety and security information will continue to be shared without disruption.

The development comes just over a month after the embassy welcomed Susan M. Burns as the new Chargé d’Affaires, the highest-ranking U.S. diplomat in Kenya.

Burns assumed the role on August 25, succeeding Carla Benini, who had been acting in the position following the departure of Marc Dillard.

“I am so happy to be here to continue working to strengthen our relationship with Kenya. Many thanks to Carla and the entire Embassy team for their ongoing efforts. Can’t wait to meet you, Kenya,” Burns said in her introductory message.

Burns previously served as Principal Officer at the U.S. Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam (2022–2025).

Her diplomatic career also includes roles as Director for the Office of Mainland Southeast Asia in Washington, and postings in Uganda, Nepal, Ghana, Poland, and Taiwan.

She holds a master’s degree in strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College and a bachelor’s degree from McGill University. In addition, she has studied several languages including Mandarin, Polish, Nepali, Vietnamese, and French.

Her arrival followed the departure of Marc Dillard, who left Kenya in July after a heartfelt farewell to Kenyans. Dillard reflected on his tenure, noting that he felt at home in Kenya and was proud of efforts to strengthen U.S.–Kenya ties in areas such as health, security, and cultural exchange.

Dillard, appointed in December 2024 by President Joe Biden after the resignation of Meg Whitman, had served in the U.S. Foreign Service since 1998.