Warden Messages
2008 Warden Messages
Yaoundé, Cameroon
February 27, 2008 - 23:00 p.m.
The following is a message from the American Citizen Services unit at the U.S. Embassy in Yaoundé.
Violence has continued throughout the day in the Littoral, West, South West and North West Provinces of Cameroon, most notably in Douala where numerous armed clashes between demonstrators and police and army units were reported. Additionally, Yaounde experienced violence, including looting and rioting, downtown and in residential neighborhoods. Gunshots were reported in Yaounde, including in the Bastos neighborhood where many expatriates reside.
At this time, the Embassy strongly advises against any 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 should carefully consider both their residential security and road conditions when deciding whether to travel to airports. Short-term visitors should consider departing Cameroon when conditions improve sufficiently to permit travel to airports. We also encourage long-term residents to review their preparedness for emergencies, and their possible evacuation plans.
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 <mailto: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).