Warden Messages

Travel to Eastern Congo

The U.S. Embassy hereby informs American citizens in Rwanda that all non-essential travel to the province of North Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) should be deferred until further notice. The Travel Warning issued by Embassy Kinshasa dated April 24, 2007 remains in effect for the DRC.

According to media reports, as well as information provided by the UN Mission in Congo (MONUC) and the U.S. Embassy representative in Goma, the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) stepped up military action against General Laurent Nkunda and his forces, using helicopter gunships and heavy artillery in the area of Mushake on December 4. Nkunda loyalists are moving from Kabati and Kilolirwe towards Kichanda and further north. Movements of forces on both sides, build-up of government troops, and continued clashes are expected. Numerous civilians are fleeing the region.

American citizens in Rwanda who are considering traveling into the DRC are advised to closely monitor local and international news from reliable sources for updated reports. Radio Okapi broadcasts in French on 103.5 FM at 0700, 0800, 1200 and 1800 as well as flash broadcasts throughout the day. English language news can be found on BBC at 92.6 FM.

Additionally, American citizens are urged to review and update their personal and professional emergency plans, and take necessary precautions to avoid being caught in dangerous situations.

Americans are also reminded to register with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kigali and if they plan to enter the DRC. Registration may be completed online at: http://kigali.usembassy.gov/ . By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassies to contact them in case of emergency.

For the latest security information, Americans living or traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs internet website at: http://travel.state.gov/, where the current Worldwide Caution, Public Announcements, and Travel Warnings can be found. Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. or Canada, or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8 AM to 8 PM Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. Federal Holidays).

 

The U.S. Embassy in Kigali is located at Boulevard de la Revolution; the mailing address is B.P. 28, Kigali, Rwanda; tel. 250-505-602 or 250-505-603, then dial zero; fax: 250-572-128; e-mail address is amembkigali@hotmail.com. The Consular Section’s email address is: consularkigali@state.gov. The Embassy's Internet website is http://kigali.usembassy.gov/ .