USA to Monitor Kenyan Social Media in Tough New Visa Screening Rules

The United States government has introduced a new policy that mandates the monitoring of Kenyan social media accounts as part of the visa approval process.

This move has sparked alot concerns and debates across the region.

The directive was ordered by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and announced on April 2, 2025 aims to enhance national security by screening visa applicants for content deemed critical of the U.S.A and Israel.

The directive will require all consular officers to carry our mandatory social media checks on all applicants who previously held visas between October 7, 2023 and 31, 2024.

All Kenyans applying for visas will scrutiny of their activities carried online. Consular officers will flag content that criticizes U.S and Isreal, hostile attitude content towards American values.

The policy was introduced during the Trump administration and aimed at deporting foreign nationals displaying hostility toward American values.

For Kenyans, the implications are significant as many rely on social media platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram to express opinions, engage in activism, or connect with global communities.

On the other hand, U.S. officials defend the policy as a necessary step to protect national interests.