Warden Message Archives
U.S. Embassy
Warden Message
Yaoundé, Cameroon
February 27, 2008 - 10:00 a.m.
The following is a message from the American Citizen Services unit at the U.S. Embassy in Yaoundé.
Embassy sources report that looting and unrest has begun in downtown Yaounde around the central market, and in the Mokolo, Madagascar and Carrefour Wada neighborhoods.
The Embassy advises against any travel in Yaounde until the situation is brought under control.
Due to continued violence in Douala and increasing outbreaks of violence in the Littoral, South West, West and North West provinces of Cameroon ,American citizens in those provinces are advised to remain in their residences for the next twenty-four hours. Americans in other parts of Cameroon are encouraged to limit their travel and be alert to potential hazards. Travel between urban areas should be avoided, as roadblocks have been erected without notice by both demonstrators and petty criminals on many of the major thoroughfares of Cameroon. Food, fuel and water are increasingly scarce, not only in Douala but in other cities where expectation of shortage has sparked a run on gasoline.
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.
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>, 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. 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).
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