U.S. Embassy Nouakchott
Warden Message
8 January 2009
The U.S. Embassy in Nouakchott is issuing this Warden Message to inform Americans about demonstrations planned for today, Thursday, January 8 and tomorrow Friday, January 9. Given continued tension arising from the ongoing crises in Gaza, we would advise all Americans in Mauritania to be alert, aware, and avoid all demonstrations. This is particularly true for today regarding planned demonstrations at 15:00 near the Presidency and Saudi Mosque. On Friday, January 9, one can expect large demonstrations and protest marches to take place before and after Friday prayers (between 11:00 and 17:00). Given the situation in Gaza, tomorrow’s demonstrations may be larger and more active than in the past week. We would advise all Americans to make no unnecessary travel through the city during these times given the unpredictable and sometimes violent nature of previous marches. We advise avoiding the vicinity of the main mosques, the central plaza, Presidency, the University, the Israeli embassy, and other areas associated with recent demonstrations. Earlier demonstrations have resulted in violence and required police intervention.
We remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. American citizens are therefore urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations. American citizens should stay current of local events and be aware of their surroundings. American citizens are also urged to register with the U.S. Embassy. They can do so in person or at https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/.
Americans traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Embassy’s website the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs’ website www.travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information can be found. The U.S. Embassy also encourages U.S. citizens to review to "A Safe Trip Abroad," found at http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html, which includes valuable security information for those both living and traveling abroad. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. and Canada, or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.
The U.S. Embassy can be reached at:
Telephone: (222) 525-2660 (business hours)
(222) 525-3288 (after-hours emergencies)
Address: 288, rue 42-100 (rue Abdallaye)
Nouakchott, Mauritania
Located between the Spanish Embassy and the Presidency
Website: http://mauritania.usembassy.gov