United States Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Planned Peaceful Protests Against UN
September 2, 2017
The U.S. Embassy has received information that protests against the United Nations are being planned for this morning, Saturday, September 2, 2017, throughout Bujumbura. Participants will likely assemble and move towards Centre-Ville, with possible stops at UN facilities in town. The event is expected to cause traffic disruptions and/or road closures lasting until mid-day. RSO recommends avoiding large crowds and demonstrations, and carefully considering routes (and knowing alternate routes).
This event is expected to be peaceful; nonetheless, the U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that even events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Avoid areas where the gatherings 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 +257-79-93-8841.
· 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).
