U.S. Embassy Warden Message
April 25, 2007

Somali (Ogaden) Region

The U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa strongly discourages American citizens from traveling to Ethiopia’s Somali (Ogaden) Region. An April 24 armed attack against a Chinese oil company installation in this region resulted in the death, kidnapping and wounding of Chinese personnel, in addition to the death and wounding of numerous local citizens.  American citizens are reminded that the U.S. Embassy only approves travel of Embassy personnel to the Somali Region of Ethiopia on a case-by-case basis.  American citizens, who do chose to travel to the Somali region, are advised to remain vigilant, avoid demonstrations or large gatherings, and to be cautious when frequenting prominent public places and landmarks. 

Americans living or traveling in Ethiopia are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy through the State Department’s travel registration website and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Ethiopia.  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 U.S. Embassy is located at Entoto Avenue, P.O. Box 1014, in Addis Ababa.  American citizens with questions or concerns may telephone the consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa at 251-11-124-2424; emergency after-hours telephone: 251-11-124-2400; website: http://addisababa.usembassy.gov/. 

For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs internet website at http://travel.state.gov/, where the current Worldwide Caution, Public Announcements, and Travel Warnings can be found.  Up to date information on security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S., or, for callers outside the U.S. and Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8 AM to 8 PM Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. Federal Holidays.)