Kenya enhances security as tourists flock to see eclipse

A partial solar eclipse is seen from the Canary Island of Tenerife, Spain, on Sunday. Desiree Martin / Agence France-Presse

Kenya's government has beefed up security for visitors, tourists and astronomers visiting the northern part of the country for Sunday's total solar eclipse.

Marsabit County Commissioner Isaiah Nakoru said that security forces were deployed to provide security for visitors from across the globe who are converging at Sibiloi National Park to view the event.

While the occurrence was set to take place at different points on Earth, astronomers said Sibiloi National Park offered the best view of the eclipse as the park was to be the only site with clear skies.

At least 1,500 visitors from around the world had the best vantage point to view the solar eclipse, and Kenyan officials said the eclipse will provide a platform to market Kenya as an emerging tourist destination.

Nakoru said a contingent of officers will patrol Isiolo-Moyale highway while others will be stationed at the site and areas near Lake Turkana to assure visitors.

The government administrator said security will be increased for visitors touring the region, adding that tourists visiting the areas must always feel free to explore the region's unexploited potential.