Warden Message
Explosion on Minibus
May 21, 2008

Ethiopian authorities have reported there was an explosion on a minibus that occurred in the early evening of May 20 on the road in front of the entrance to the Ethiopian Government Mapping Agency in central Addis Ababa, in which three people were killed and four wounded.  There has been no claim of responsibility for the explosion.  The charred blue and white Toyota minibus (commonly referred to as a “blue donkey”) was located less than 50 yards from the entrance to the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  Ethiopian authorities are investigating the explosion.

The Embassy takes this opportunity to remind American citizens to review their personal safety and security posture, remain vigilant, and be cautious when frequenting prominent public places and landmarks.  Americans are advised to beware of unattended baggage or packages left in any location, including in minibuses or taxis. 

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. and Canada, 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.)

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 at 251-11-124-2424; emergency after-hours telephone: 251-11-124-2400; consular fax: 251-11-124-2435; website: http://addisababa.usembassy.gov/.