U.S. Embassy Warden Message
March 4, 2008

Subject: Somali (Ogaden) Region

In light of recent press reports of a U.S. missile strike against terrorists operating in Somalia, the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa reiterates previous recommendations strongly advising all U.S. citizens to take a close look at their own safety and security posture, and avoid demonstrations and large public gatherings.  Americans are advised to remain vigilant and to be cautious when frequenting prominent public places and landmarks.  Americans are also advised particularly not to travel to areas of insecurity, such as the Somali region of Ethiopia and certain parts of the Afar region.  Before today’s reports, an April 24, 2007, armed attack against a Chinese oil company installation in the Somali region resulted in the death, kidnapping and wounding of Chinese personnel, in addition to the death and wounding of numerous local citizens. Foreign Diplomats and Ethiopian nationals were kidnapped in the Afar region near Eritrea last year.  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.  

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.)