Warden Message

U.S. Embassy, Nouakchott
February 2,2006

The U.S. Embassy in Nouakchott wants to alert the American community in Mauritania to a series of demonstrations likely to occur in Mauritania, particularly in Nouakchott.  The Embassy anticipates continued calls for protests with occasional demonstrations over the next several days. These demonstrations are in reaction to cartoons and articles that recently appeared in the Danish and French press depicting Islam in an unfavorable light.

Americans are, therefore, advised to avoid large gatherings, to be vigilant during this period and report any unusual activities to the Embassy.  Americans are reminded that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent and confrontational resulting in rioting with little or no warning.

American citizens should comply promptly with directions from the police and other Mauritanian security forces, and carry copies of their personal identity papers with them at all times. The U.S. Embassy in Nouakchott will continue to monitor the situation in Mauritania and provide updates as required.

U.S. citizens in Mauritania are also encouraged to register and may obtain updated information on travel and security in Mauritania at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy at rue Abdallaye, Nouakchott, telephone (222) 525-2660/2663, 525-1141/45 or 525-3038 (ext. 5441/5443); fax 525-1592; or email ConsularNkc@state.gov.  In case of an emergency, you may call the Embassy Duty Officer at 662-8163, or the Embassy guard post at 525-3288.

For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet site at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Cautions, Public Announcements and Travel Warnings can be found.  Americans in Mauritania who have not registered their presence with the U.S. Embassy in Nouakchott are urged to register via the Internet through the State Department’s travel registration website, https://travelregistration.state.gov.