U.S. Citizens Services

CONSULAR WARDEN NOTICE
United States Embassy
Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

July 27, 2006

Wardens:  Please disseminate as soon as possible the following notice to all American citizens within your registration zone.  Thank you.

WARDEN MESSAGE ON UPCOMING ELECTIONS,
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

National elections will take place on July 30, 2006.  As has been seen over the past few weeks, demonstrations of varying sizes and locations are an almost daily occurrence.  This is expected to continue.

In addition, the Embassy has received reports that border crossings may be closed in the period from July 28 through August 2; airports are expected to remain open.  The government has not yet officially announced any closures, however.

American citizens throughout DRC are reminded to review their personal security plans, avoid any large crowds, remain vigilant, monitor the local and international news and report any incidents of targeted violence against US citizens to the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa by calling 081-225-5872.  Radio Okapi broadcasts in French on 103.5 FM at 0700, 0800, 1200 and 1800 as well as “flash” updates throughout the day.  English-language news can be found on BBC at 92.7 FM.

The Consular section will continue to use the warden cascade notification system to reach Americans in DRC in case of emergency as this system reaches the broadest number of people most effectively. In case of an after hours emergency requiring immediate email notification, notices may also be sent from the Consular section’s “hotmail” account.  This mailbox will not/not accept or be monitored for incoming messages.  Americans in need of assistance should contact the American Embassy in Kinshasa at 081-225-5872 or by email at aekinshasaconsular@state.gov.