United States Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Imbonerakure “Demonstration of Force” Rally Planned
July 21, 2017
The U.S. Embassy has received information that the Imbonerakure, the youth league of the ruling CNDD-FDD party, is planning a “demonstration of force” rally for this Saturday, July 22. Participants will likely assemble in or move towards Centre-Ville in Bujumbura, possibly pausing at multiple locations. The event is expected to cause traffic disruption and/or road closures starting in the morning hours.
Although this event is expected to be peaceful, the U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution when in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.
Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
For further information:
* See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information for Burundi.
* Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
* Contact the U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura, located at Avenue des Etats-Unis and Avenue du Cinquantenaire in Bujumbura, Burundi, by email at BujumburaC@state.gov, or at +257-22-20-7000 from 7:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Friday. After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +257-22-20-7318, or +257-79-938-841.
* Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
