Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo Location: Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Event:  There is an ongoing outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19) first identified in Wuhan, China.  The global public health threat posed by COVID-19 is high, with more than 100,000 reported cases worldwide. The DRC Ministry of Health confirmed the …

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Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (February 26, 2020)

Location:  Worldwide, originating in China Event:  There is an ongoing outbreak of pneumonia first identified in Wuhan, China, caused by a novel (new) coronavirus. Visitors to the DRC will undergo a health screening upon arrival at the airport or other ports of entry, and may be subject to additional screening and laboratory testing if they …

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Demonstration Alert – U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (07 February 2020)

Location: Limete Event: The U.S. Embassy has received several reports that members of Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS) are protesting in Limete, in the vicinity of Boulevard Lumumba.  The highest concentration of activity is occurring between 7e Rue and 12e Rue. Protestors are intentionally slowing traffic along Blvd Lumumba, throwing rocks at vehicles, …

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Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (20 December 2019)

Location: Kinshasa city roads, notably 30 June Boulevard, 24 November Boulevard, and Lumumba Boulevard. Event: City-wide road construction and closures hinder movement and cause security concerns for vehicle drivers and passengers.  The Embassy has seen an increase in traffic accidents and security events involving crowds and hostile commuters harassing drivers and damaging cars.  Additionally, heavy …

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Demonstration Alert – U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (26 November 2019)

Demonstration Alert – U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (26 November 2019) Location: Goma, Beni and Butembo Event: Demonstrations are ongoing in the cities of Goma, Beni and Butembo.  Some roads are blocked by protesters and crowds have gathered at MONUSCO locations.  Police and security forces are deployed in the cities and have …

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Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (September 5, 2019)

Location:  Congo’s Nord-Kivu, Ituri, and Sud-Kivu Provinces Event:  To control the spread of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) authorities continue to establish health check points throughout the Nord-Kivu, Ituri, and Sud-Kivu Provinces, including in the cities of Goma, Beni, and Butembo and in Virunga National Park.  New checkpoints may be created with little notice. You may …

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Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (May 29, 2019)

Location:  Kinshasa Event: On Thursday, May 30, the remains of Mr. Etienne Tshisekedi is scheduled to arrive at Ndjili Airport at 8am in preparation for his funeral and burial. Due to the expectation of heavy crowds throughout the city the Embassy will close at 12:30pm.  Additionally, if an official holiday is declared by the DRC government, …

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Message for U.S. Citizens-IRS webinars (May 22, 2019)

Please consider messaging your registrants about these upcoming IRS webinars. Sign up here: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/webinars-for-tax-practitioners . IRS – Webinars for Tax Practitioners June 6 Foreign Earned Income Exclusion June 13 Taxation of Employees of Foreign Governments and International Organizations June 19 Self-Employment Tax June 20 Self-Employment Tax Spanish June 27 Determining Tax Residency   Assistance: U.S. Embassy …

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Security Alert for U.S. Citizens

Location: Kinshasa Event: Please be aware that national elections are scheduled for Sunday, December 23, 2018.  Until now, political rallies and crowds have remained mostly peaceful and relatively small, however, the potential for unrest is heightened for the coming weeks.  Unrest could occur on short notice. Actions to Take: Avoid large crowds and demonstrations on the …

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Upcoming Event Alert for U.S. Citizens:  October 25, 2018

Upcoming Event Alert for U.S. Citizens:  October 25, 2018 Location: Kinshasa Event: On Friday, October 26, a political march is expected to take place in Kinshasa, organized by opposition groups.  The march will begin at roughly 1000 at Echangeur de Limite.  The group will march to CENI, via Boulevard Lumumba, Boulevard Sendwe, Boulevard Triumphal, Avenue …

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Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kinshasa: May 15, 2018

Location:  Goma Event: Embassy Kinshasa advises U.S. citizens to avoid the area around Virunga National Park in Goma. On May 11, just north of Goma rebels attacked a convoy and killed a park ranger and kidnapped two tourists traveling within Virunga Park. Kidnappings in the Eastern Congo remain a serious concern, and are one of …

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Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Kinshasa: May 7, 2018

Location:  Goma Event: Embassy Kinshasa advises U.S. citizens to avoid the area around the Karibu Hotel in Goma. On April 30, individuals armed with machetes attempted to enter and occupy Karibu Hotel property. Local security authorities dispersed the individuals and reported no injuries. Reports say that this incident may be associated with a land dispute …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Call for Protests on December 31, 2017

U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo December 29, 2017 The U.S. Embassy is aware of reports that opposition and civil society groups are calling for demonstrations on Sunday, December 31, throughout Kinshasa and other cities.  The Embassy advises U.S. citizens to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place.  Even demonstrations intended to be …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Call for Protests on December 19, 2017

The U.S. Embassy is aware of reports that opposition and civil society groups are calling for protests on Tuesday, December 19, in Kinshasa and other cities.  U.S. government employees have been instructed to limit their movements in general and for those in Kinshasa to limit their movements within Gombe on December 19. Even demonstrations intended …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Call for Protests on November 30, 2017

The U.S. Embassy is aware of reports that opposition and civil society groups are calling for protests in Kinshasa and other cities on Thursday, November 30.  U.S. government employees have been instructed to limit their movements to within Gombe on November 30. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational or escalate into violence.  …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Planned March for November 30, 2017

  The U.S. Embassy is aware of reports that some political parties have called for a peaceful protest march in Kinshasa on November 30, 2017.  While demonstrators may gather at various locations throughout the city, protest organizers from the political opposition have stated that participants would converge for a public meeting in the open terrain …

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Democratic Republic of the Congo Travel Warning

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO  October 16, 2017  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to avoid unnecessary travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) because of ongoing instability and sporadic violence in many parts of the country.  Very poor transportation infrastructure throughout the DRC, and poor security conditions in the Eastern Congo …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Fighting in Uvira

The U.S. Embassy has received reports of violent clashes and fighting between government forces and militia groups in and around the area of Uvira in South Kivu.  As the security situation has degraded significantly around Uvira, the Embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid travel to Uvira and exercise caution in all parts of South Kivu. …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Suspicious Object

On Sunday, September 17, 2017, U.S. Embassy security officials located a suspicious object on the grounds of a U.S. Mission residence.  Embassy security officials worked with local Congolese authorities to remove the object and investigate the incident.  There is no indication that there was any intent to target the US government or US Mission personnel. As …

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Worldwide Caution

As part of the Department of State’s continuous efforts to provide U.S. citizens traveling abroad with information about safety and security events, we are updating the Worldwide Caution with information on the continuing threat of terrorist actions, political violence, and criminal activity against U.S. citizens and interests abroad.  This replaces the Worldwide Caution dated March …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Possible Rally on September 3, 2017

On Sunday September 3, there is a potential for large crowds to interrupt traffic near N’djili airport between the hours of 0900 and 1300.  Indications at this time show that there will likely be limited participation, however, that is always subject to change. The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens to limit movements and to avoid …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Planned Protests for August 21

The U.S. Embassy has learned that on August 15, the Bundu dia Kongo (BDK) separatist group released a video calling for protests on Monday, August 21.  On August 7, protests led by the BDK resulted in violence and several fatalities in Kinshasa and other cities.  Nevertheless, it is unclear whether protests will materialize or turn …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Gunfire Reported in Kinshasa

The U.S. Embassy has received reports of gunfire in the following areas of Kinshasa: Bandal Ngiri-Ngiri Makal Matadi Road near Ngaliema Matete The exact nature of the incidents remains unconfirmed at this time, and contacts in multiple neighborhoods may be reporting the same incidents. Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: General Strike in Kinshasa, August 8-9

The U.S. Embassy has learned that opposition groups have called for a general strike, or “Ville Morte,” in Kinshasa from August 8-9.  As with any planned political event, there may be disruptions to transportation and road blockages in and around Kinshasa.  U.S. citizens are advised to exercise caution and to limit non-essential trips. Even demonstrations …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Planned Political Protests in Kinshasa, Goma, Bukavu, and Lubumbashi

The U.S. Embassy has received reports of planned political protests in Kinshasa, Goma, Bukavu, and Lubumbashi on Monday, July 31.  As with any planned political event, disruptions to transportation may occur in these cities.  U.S. citizens are advised to exercise caution and to limit non-essential trips. The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens that even demonstrations …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Recent Prison Breaks and Impersonation of Local Security Forces

The U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa informs U.S. citizens living or traveling in the DRC of recent large-scale prison breaks from prisons in Kinshasa, Beni, and Kasangulu. Local authorities will likely increase requests for government issued identification at checkpoints over the coming weeks as they work to track the large number of escapees.  The checkpoints have …

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U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, D.R.C. – Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Checkpoints in Kinshasa

The U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa informs U.S. citizens that numerous checkpoints have been observed throughout Kinshasa since the Makala Prison break.  The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens of the following guidance when approaching these checkpoints: Slow down when approaching checkpoints. Turn on your interior vehicle light at night. Stop your vehicle at the checkpoint as …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Ebola Cases in Bas-Uele Province (May 15, 2017)

The U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa informs U.S. citizens that the DRC’s health minister and the World Health Organization report seven suspected and two confirmed deaths of Ebola virus disease in the remote northeastern province of Bas-Uele. The Ebola virus is transmitted through contact with infected blood, bodily fluids, handling or washing of infected corpses, or …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Planned Demonstrations on April 10

The U.S. Embassy has received reports of possible demonstrations called for by the political opposition in Kinshasa, and other cities, on April 10.  Unrest and disruption to transportation services may occur in parts of the city.  While the U.S. Embassy will be open, U.S. government personnel will limit movements within Gombe.  U.S. citizens are advised …

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Travel Warning D.R. Congo

1. The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to avoid unnecessary travel to the DRC. There is ongoing instability and sporadic violence in many parts of the DRC. Very poor transportation infrastructure throughout the country and poor security conditions in eastern DRC make it difficult for the U.S. Embassy to provide consular services anywhere outside …

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U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo:Travel warning

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to avoid unnecessary travel to the DRC.  There is ongoing instability and sporadic violence in many parts of the DRC.  Very poor transportation infrastructure throughout the country and poor security conditions in eastern DRC make it difficult for the U.S. Embassy to provide consular services anywhere outside of …

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U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Civil Unrest

The U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa informs U.S. citizens of reports of civil unrest in Kinshasa in the areas of Barumbu (near Hotel Memling), Lemba and Limete. The Embassy has also received unconfirmed reports of unrest in the areas of Ave du Commerce, Ave Tomalbaye, Rue du Kasai, Kalamu, Ndjili Quatiere, Flambeau, Mabambare, Marche Central, Marche …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Increased Potential for Civil Unrest

U.S. Embassy Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo February 2, 2017 The U.S. Embassy warns U.S. citizens of the increased potential for civil unrest in Kinshasa due to the recent death of prominent opposition leader Etienne Tshisekedi. U.S. citizens should avoid unnecessary travel to the neighborhood of Limeté and in the vicinity of the University …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens : Demonstrations on December 19 (November 28, 2016)

The U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa informs U.S. citizens of the potential for large-scale demonstrations and civil unrest on/around December 19, the date on which President Kabila’s term in office was due to end before his government delayed elections. The Embassy reviews its security posture periodically and is considering changing its posture in response to the …

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Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Travel Warning

The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens of ongoing instability and sporadic violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The potential for civil unrest remains high in Kinshasa and other major cities. In addition armed groups, bandits, and some elements of the Congolese armed forces continue to engage in murder, kidnapping, and robbery …

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DRC: End of Ordered Departure for EFMs

Effective October 07, 2016, the Department of State ended the ordered departure of family members of U.S. government personnel, permitting family members to return to Kinshasa. We are taking this action based on our current assessment of the security situation in Kinshasa and the broader Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). ‎We will continue to …

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Travel Warning: Democratic Republic of Congo

The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens of continued instability in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The potential for civil unrest is high in parts of Kinshasa and other major cities. As a result of the deteriorating security situation, family members of U.S. government personnel have been ordered to leave the country beginning …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Update on Unrest

The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of the continued potential for unrest in sections of Kinshasa. Although there have only been reports of limited disturbances in Kinshasa today, U.S. citizens should remain in place until the risk of civil unrest has ended. U.S. government travel to the DRC continues to remain temporarily halted. The road …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Civil Unrest in Kinshasa

The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens of ongoing civil unrest in various sections of Kinshasa and other major cities throughout the country. All official U.S. government travel to the DRC has been halted. The Embassy strongly advises U.S. citizens not to travel to the DRC. The current state of protests in Kinshasa has made it …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Potential Demonstration June 28, 2016

The U.S. Embassy wishes to inform U.S. citizens of a potential demonstration in support of PNC General Kanyama and opposing the recent targeted sanctions against him. Current information indicates that the demonstration will be in the form of a march from L’inspection Provinciale de la Police located on 24 November Ave, along 30 June Boulevard, …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Political Events Planned for May 26, 2016

The U.S. Embassy wishes to inform U.S. citizens that there are political events planned by opposition and pro-government groups beginning tomorrow morning, Thursday May 26.  These events may take the form of marches or political rallies. In Kinshasa, the Embassy is advising its personnel to avoid the areas of Boulevard Triomphal, and Avenue 24 Novembre …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Political Meetings/Rallies Planned for April 23 and 24

The U.S. Embassy wishes to inform U.S. citizens that one of the opposition parties, UDPS, is planning a meeting at their headquarters in the Limite neighborhood in Kinshasa on Saturday, April 23.  Reports indicate that authorities may seek to prevent the meeting from taking place. Another political rally is planned by an opposition coalition on …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Procession & Prayer Service Planned for March 5

Tomorrow, Saturday, March 5, at approximately 7 a.m., a procession is scheduled from an unannounced starting point that will end at Stade des Martyrs for a prayer service, scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. The procession and prayer service are planned by civil society groups in support of National Dialogue. Large crowds may develop in …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Possible Demonstrations

The U.S. Embassy has received reports that opposition groups have called for a non-confrontational “ville morte” (general strike) on Tuesday, February 16, 2016 throughout the country. Opposition groups are concerned about the possible delay of national elections scheduled to be held in November 2016. There may be disruptions to transportation in major population centers, such as …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens

We strongly recommend U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at www.Travel.State.Gov. STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you do not have Internet access, enroll …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Possible Demonstrations on Tuesday, September 15

The U.S. Embassy has received reports that anti-government demonstrations are being planned for the morning of September 15, 2015.  The demonstration may take place in the vicinity of Sainte Therese, a church located in N’Djili between Quartiers 4, 6, and 8, along Rue Kimpese 1. We have received word that the government has officially authorized …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Phone Call Threatening U.S. Citizens

The U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa informs U.S. citizens that the Embassy received a phone call today from an unidentified person who stated intent to hurt or stab an American Citizen. The individual gave no additional information. This information is being shared with the Embassy community and the U.S. citizen community at large out of an abundance …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Demonstrations in the DRC

There are reports of continued presence of security forces to deter protests in several neighborhoods of Kinshasa today. There have been no reported protests in Commune Gombe so far today. Ndjili International Airport remains open and international flights reportedly plan to arrive/depart tonight. Currently, the main road leading to the airport is also open. Today, …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Political Demonstration

The U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa advises U.S. citizens that on Monday, October 20, 2014, from approximately 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., a political demonstration in the form of a “sit in” is scheduled to be conducted on L’Avenue des Aviateurs.  The United States Embassy, the Embassy of Portugal, and UN Headquarters were specifically mentioned as …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Demonstrations Scheduled for September 13, 2014

Local media sources have announced a protest march is being planned for September 13in Kinshasa during which demonstrators intend to voice their opposition to prospective revisions to the Congolese Constitution.  The march is expected to begin at around 10:00 A.M. near la Gare Centrale, proceed west down Avenue 30 Juin, take Avenue Kasa-Vubu south, and …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Press Reports of Medical Outbreak in Equateur Province

The DRC Minister of Health (MOH) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have reported two confirmed cases of Ebola in the Equateur province in the remote region of Djera. Djera is approximately 476 miles northeast of Kinshasa and is not easily accessible, requiring multiple river crossings by ferry and difficult overland travel.  The current Equateur …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Press Reports of Medical Outbreak in Equateur Province

Local and international media have reported an outbreak of an illness involving diarrhea and fever in the Boende area of Equateur province.  The cause of this outbreak is not yet known, but the illness does not appear to be directly linked to the current Ebola outbreak in West Africa.  Testing is underway and results are …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Shooting Reported in Vicinity of Camp Tshatshi in Ngaliema Neighborhood, Kinshasa

U.S. citizens should exercise caution in the wake of the July 22 shooting incident which took place in the vicinity of Camp Tshatshi (located near the American School of Kinshasa (TASOK) and the Ministry of Defense) in Ngaliema, Kinshasa. U.S. Embassy sources report that unknown assailants attacked a government facility in or around Camp Tshatshi …

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Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Armed Individual Causes Disturbance Outside of U.S. Embassy Buildings

The U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa informs U.S. citizens of an individual armed with a knife that caused a disturbance at Avenue Dumi in front of the Consular entrance of the Chancery compound on the afternoon of April 17. The individual was seen making threats in the same location on March 3. The individual threatened embassy …

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Voting in 2014

Your vote counts!  Did you know that many recent U.S. elections have been decided by a margin smaller than the number of ballots cast by military and overseas voters? All states are required to count every absentee ballot as long as it is valid and reaches local election officials by the absentee ballot receipt deadline. Follow …

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Unrest near Lubumbashi in Katanga Province

The Embassy has received information of armed engagements between the Congolese armed forces (FARDC) and various armed groups near the city of Lubumbashi in Katanga province, including fighting in the village of Kajiba (25 kilometers east of Lubumbashi) and Kiziba (10 kilometers southeast of Lubumbashi).  The Embassy has also received reports that some armed groups …

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