Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy Carla Benini giving her keynote speech during a reception event at the Ambassador's official residence on August 21, 2025./DOUGLAS OKIDDY The United States of America Embassy in Nairobi has announced that it will remain closed on Monday, September 1, 2025.
In a notice to the public on Friday, the embassy said the move is in observance of Labor Day, a public holiday in the United States (US) dedicated to honoring and recognising the contributions of American workers.
The embassy said its offices in Nairobi will be closed for the day.
Labor Day is celebrated annually in the US on the first Monday of September and is one of the country’s oldest public holidays, dating back to the late 19th century when it was established to recognise the social and economic achievements of American workers.
The closure in Nairobi aligns with US federal practice, where all government offices, including embassies abroad, mark national holidays.
Citizens seeking consular services such as visa processing, notarial services, and passport applications are therefore advised to plan accordingly.
The announcement was accompanied by a presidential proclamation from US President Donald Trump, who underscored the historic role of the American worker in shaping the nation.
“From the earliest settlers, who laid the foundations of a new Nation, to the innovators who built our railroads, steel mills, and skyscrapers, America’s greatness has always rested in the strength of its workforce,” the proclamation read.
Trump emphasised that his administration remains committed to restoring the dignity of labor by reviving American industries, creating jobs, and securing fair trade deals that prioritize American workers.
“This Labor Day, we renew our pledge to protect American jobs and defend the dignity of American labor, and we proudly acknowledge the vital role that our workers play in our past, present, and glorious American future,” he said.
The embassy closure is part of a wider recognition of US holidays by diplomatic missions worldwide.
