If you are planning to travel to the region of the in the near future, you should be aware of the fact that a travel warning has been issued for this region. The reason for this travel warning is the security environment in some rural and remote areas, which may continue to pose a security risk. The security risk may be significant, at times. The security risk in the at this time is due to continued terrorist threats aimed at Western and interests.
At this time the U.S. Department of State has warned against all travel to the by citizens. The reason for the travel warning is due to continue periodic fighting and violence in the provinces of North and South Kivu, Ituri and northern . Areas in eastern may also experience advances in the peace process following the 2003 formation of a transitional government, periodic fighting continues in the provinces of North and South Kivu, Ituri and northern , and other areas of eastern
The concern for security in this region is so great, the U.S. Department of State has urged citizens to seriously consider whether their pending travel to the region of the is absolutely necessary. You should be aware that some of the most significant security problems in this area include bombings and kidnappings as well as suicide operations. Indiscriminate attacks against civilian targets in public locales may occur, particularly where westerners may congregate. Whenever possible, avoid large crowds. If you do travel to this region, be aware that overland
travel between major cities should be avoided at all costs at night. In some cases, overland travel may be blocked or restricted, due to security concerns. Travel to areas of
Kinshasa, especially at night, should be restricted.
While you are in this region, you should take prudent security precautions. These precautions should include ensuring that you have adequate amounts of fuel and provisions. If you are staying at a hotel in this region, be sure that adequate security is provided in order to avoid as many potential dangers as possible. Be aware that possible targets in this area include clubs, hotels, places of worship, restaurants, schools and outdoor recreational facilities. Always be alert and adhere to all prudent security practices.
Be aware that while U.N. observer forces are in deployment throughout this region, there is still a serious potential for carjackings, kidnappings and rape.
If you do plan to travel to the , make sure that you obtain the most up to date health information for this region. If you are an American traveling into this region, be sure that you register at the U.S. Embassy, located at 310 Avenue des Aviateurs; entrance to the Consular Section is on Avenue Dumi, opposite Ste. Anne residence. The Embassy’s 24-hour number is 243-81-225-5872; callers within DRC should dial 081 225-5872.
