United States Embassy Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Unrest Persists – Stay Aware
20 January 2017
The U.S. Embassy continues to closely monitor the security situation in Côte d’Ivoire. The potential for further unrest in Côte d’Ivoire persists. The Embassy has lifted travel restrictions for official U.S. government employees and their families. In accordance with regular practice, however, they are required to notify the Embassy of travel outside of Abidjan and take stock of any security issues at their destination or en route. As a matter of sound security procedures, we recommend that U.S. citizens traveling within Côte d’Ivoire likewise notify friends or family regarding travel plans and stay informed about any emerging security concerns.
The Embassy continues to recommend that U.S. citizens in Côte d’Ivoire exercise caution and carefully review the information available in the “Security Messages and Local Resources” section in the “U.S. Citizen Services” section of the U.S. Embassy Abidjan website for additional information.
Please be aware that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations and exercise caution if 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. Maintain a high level of vigilance 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 Cote d’Ivoire Country Specific Information.
- 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 Abidjan, located in the Riviera Golf neighborhood of the Cocody section, at +225 22-49-40-00, 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 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 +225-22-49-44-50.
