WM February 28, 2008
Warden Message Archives
U.S. Embassy Warden Message
Yaoundé, Cameroon
February 28, 2008 - 19:00 p.m.
The following is a message from the American Citizen Services unit at the U.S. Embassy in Yaoundé.
Violence and demonstrations continued overnight February 27 in the Littoral, West, SouthWest and NorthWest provinces after President Paul Biya> '> s address to the nation on that day. Yaounde experienced some unrest following the address, but was quiet February 28 under a heavy security presence. Some violence was reported in the West, South West and North West provinces. In Douala the military succeeded in keeping the access roads through both Bonaberi (western approach) and le village (eastern approach) open to traffic, and most of the city was calm. Violence persists in the Deido neighborhood.
Despite the relative calm, the Embassy advises against uncoordinated movement outside of residences, and urges all Americans to take all appropriate security measures. Airports in Douala and Yaounde remain open and operational. American citizens in Cameroon should exercise extreme caution and try to depart the country if their situation permits. American citizens who wish to depart should contact the Embassy immediately for assistance in identifying and joining convoys heading to Yaounde and Douala with military or police escort. We understand that there is limited seat availability on Air France, SN Brussels, Kenya Airways, Air Maroc, and SwissAir. American citizens who wish to depart Cameroon should contact airlines directly for schedules and reservations.
In response to the crisis the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy has established a dedicated phone line - 237-2220-1500 x4033, and e-mail address - YaoundeACS@state.gov. The Embassy urges any Americans in Cameroon, particularly those located in areas of unrest, to contact the Consular Section to provide information about your situation, or to get current information on developments. American citizens and their family members can also call the State Department at 1-888-407-4747 from the U.S. and Canada, or 1-202-501-4444 from outside the U.S. and Canada.
All Americans are also reminded to consider reviewing their readiness for emergency situations. Specifically, citizens should review whether you have appropriate food and other supplies to remain in your residence for a week or more, should that prove necessary. Additionally, Americans should review their travel documents to ensure they are current and consider packing an emergency bag containing your most important documents and possessions.
American citizens throughout Cameroon are reminded to avoid large public gatherings or demonstrations if possible, and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations. American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times.
The U.S. Embassy in Cameroon is located at Avenue Rosa Parks, B.P. 817; the telephone for the American Citizen Services unit is (237) 2220-15-00 x4341; fax is (223) 2220- 15-72. The consular office can also be reached by email at consularyaounde@state.gov. For after hour emergencies call (237) 2220-15-00 to be connected to a duty officer.
Americans living or traveling abroad are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate through the State Department> '> s travel registration website, <https://travelregistration.state.gov <https://travelregistration.state.gov/> >, and to obtain updated information on travel and security. Americans without internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By registering, American citizens make it easier for the Embassy or Consulate to contact them in case of emergency.
The Department of State also shares information through its consular information program documents, available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov <http://travel.state.gov/> . In addition, U.S. citizens can obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. or Canada, or from other countries on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM Eastern time, Monday to Friday (except U.S. holidays).