American Citizen Services

Warden Messages

Heightened Security Awareness ( January 15, 2008)

U.S. Embassy, Abidjan

To the American Citizen Community:

U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and take appropriate steps to bolster their personal security.  The U.S. Embassy urges its staff and all Americans to take responsibility for their own personal security.  During the lead-up to scheduled elections in June, there is likely to be an increase in demonstrations and occasions of civil unrest.  Bouake and areas in the west, in particular, have had recent incidents of violence. 

U.S. citizens are urged to stay alert and be aware of their surroundings as Cote D’Ivoire moves forward with elections.  Avoid crowded areas wherever possible.  Travel during daylight hours.  Travel with at least one other person, and ensure that your family or work colleagues know your destination and expected time of return.  Should you travel outside Abidjan, make sure to have adequate emergency medical and vehicle repair supplies as well as water.  Cell phone coverage can be unreliable outside of Abidjan, and U.S. citizens are urged to have contingency plans for alternate means of communication.  Take routine precautions to ensure you have sufficient food, water, and other supplies in your home to enable you to remain indoors for at least several days, if necessary.

We wish to remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence.  American citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations.

For the latest security information, Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov where the current Worldwide Caution Public Announcement, Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts can be found.
The U.S. Embassy is located in the Riviera Golf neighborhood of the Cocody section of Abidjan.  Americans should register with the U.S. Embassy by completing a registration form on-line at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/home.asp, by calling (225) 22-49-40-00, or faxing (225) 22-49-42-02. Americans in Cote d'Ivoire who need assistance should contact the Embassy at (225) 22-49-40-00.  American citizens may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions in Cote d’Ivoire by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the United States and Canada, or 1-202-501-4444 from all other countries.  For emergencies after hours, call 22-49-44-50.