Emergency Messages for US Citizens

Message for U.S. Citizens/ 2011 Cameroon Elections

U.S. Embassy Yaoundé, Cameroon
September 7, 2011

Presidential elections will be held in Cameroon on October 9, 2011, with results expected to be announced around October 24.  In the time leading up to, during, and after the elections, U.S. citizens should be aware of the possibility of travel disruptions and heightened political tensions.  As of September 6, the Cameroonian government has deployed increasing numbers of security forces in cities and towns.  In the past, some demonstrations have turned violent and there have been severe crackdowns by Cameroonian security forces.  During past election periods, Cameroonian security forces have enforced curfews, security checkpoints, travel restrictions and identification checks.  Additionally, public campaigning of political candidates has disrupted travel throughout Cameroon.  U.S. citizens should consider this information carefully if planning to travel to or remain in Cameroon during the October election period.

U.S. citizens traveling to or living in Cameroon during this period should maintain a high level of security awareness at all times and avoid political rallies, demonstrations, and large crowds of any kind.  U.S. citizens should not engage in political activity inconsistent with the purpose of their travel to Cameroon.  You should monitor current events through the media, including TV, radio, and the Internet.

U.S. citizens should always carry copies of their passports and other travel documents with them.  Following these basic security measures will enhance your personal safety while in Cameroon:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Let people know where you are going and when you will be back.
• If you do go out after dark, do not go alone.
• Do not consume so much alcohol that it impairs your judgment.
• Carry your cell phone with you when you go out, and keep it in a secure place.
• Be prepared in case you need to depart suddenly.  Check ready.gov for information and advice. 

U.S. citizens should also consult the Department of State’s Country Specific Information for Cameroon, and the Worldwide Caution, available at Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs web site.  That office can be reached from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday, by calling 1-888-407-4747 from within the United States and Canada, or by calling 1-202-501-4444 from other countries.  You may also follow U.S. Embassy Yaounde’s Twitter feed for information for U.S. citizens at twitter.com/USEmbCameroon. 

U.S. citizens living or traveling to Cameroon should enroll with the Embassy through the Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) website, so they can obtain updated information on travel and security within Cameroon.  Citizens without Internet access may enroll directly with the Embassy.  By using STEP, you make it easier for the Embassy to contact you in case of emergency.

The U.S. Embassy in Yaoundé is located at Avenue Rosa Parks close to the Mont Febe Golf Club. The telephone number is 2220-1500 ext. 4341/4023. The number for after-hours emergencies is 2220-1500 ext. 4531. The fax number is 2220-1572.

The Embassy’s e-mail address is yaoundeacs@state.gov .  

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