Newsgroups: wstd.travel.advisories From: 76702.1202@CompuServe.COM (Charlie Smith) Subject: *NEW* TRAVEL INFORMATION -- Rwanda Organization: The World @ Software Tool & Die Distribution: wstd Date: Mon, 22 Feb 1993 16:23:20 GMT STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Rwanda ============================================================ Rwanda - Travel Warning February 19, 1993 Warning: The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to Rwanda because of a recurrence of heavy fighting between rebel troops and government forces throughout northern Rwanda. In recent weeks, there has also been intense fighting between political parties and ethnic groups. Civil unrest has resulted in demonstrations, road blockages and violence, including bombings throughout Rwanda. The Department of State has authorized the voluntary departure of dependents and non-essential employees from the U.S. Embassy in Kigali. The mountain gorillas are no longer accessible to tourists. Additional information can be found in the Department of State's Consular Information Sheet on Rwanda. No. 93-013 This replaces the Travel Warning dated February 17, 1993, and to reflect the approval of voluntary departure of dependents and nonessential employees from the U.S. Embassy in Kigali and to advise that the mountain gorillas are no longer accessible to tourists. Rwanda - Consular Information Sheet February 19, 1993 Warning: The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to Rwanda because of a recurrence of heavy fighting between rebel troops and government forces throughout northern Rwanda. In recent weeks, there has also been intense fighting between political parties and ethnic groups. Civil unrest has resulted in demonstrations, road blockages and violence, including bombings throughout Rwanda. The Department of State has authorized the voluntary departure of dependents and non-essential employees from the U.S. Embassy in Kigali. The mountain gorillas are no longer accessible to tourists. Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy in Rwanda is located in the capital city of Kigali at Boulevard de la Revolution, B.P. 28. The telephone number is (250) 75601/2/3. Country Description: Rwanda is an east African country with a developing economy. Tourist facilities, except in the capital city of Kigali and in game parks, may be limited. An estimated 500,000 refugees have been displaced due to the recent outbreak of violence. Entry Requirements: A passport and a visa are required in order to enter the country. Visas can be obtained from any Rwandan embassy or consulate. A $15 fee is required for a multiple-entry visa with a stay of up to three months in duration; two application forms, two photos and evidence of yellow fever immunization also must be presented. Further information on entry requirements can be obtained at the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda at 1714 New Hampshire Avenue, N.W. in Washington, D.C. 20009, telephone (202) 232-2882. Areas of Instability: Rwanda has been engaged in hostilities with an armed rebel force composed of Rwandan exiles from neighboring Uganda since October 1990. The situation in northern Rwanda, especially in Ruhengeri and Byumba prefectures, is extremely hazardous. There have also been outbreaks of violence between political parties and ethnic groups. Many deaths have occurred as a result of this violence. The area just east of Volcano National Park, home of Rwanda's famed mountain gorillas, eastward to the edge of Akagera Game Park, is not accessible to tourists. Travel to Akagera Game Park is also hazardous. Terrorist Activities: Terrorist acts have been committed in the recent past using anti-personnel and anti-vehicle mines. Bombs, including timed explosives, have been placed in minibuses used for public transportation, hotels and at least one night club. These attacks have not been directed at American citizens or installations and appear to be the result of the increasingly volatile political situation in the country. The unpredictable nature and location of the attacks places all visitors in Rwanda at risk. Medical Facilities: Medical facilities are limited. Medicine is often in short supply. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. Supplementary medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved useful. Questions on health matters can be referred to the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at (404) 332-4559. Information on Crime: There have been armed robberies and attacks on residents of the capital city of Kigali in which guns, machetes and hand grenades were used. Petty street crimes also occur. Useful information on safeguarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," and is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. Curfew: A curfew is in effect in most of the country from 1:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. The curfew in Ruhengeri and Gisenyi prefectures, where the Volcano National Park is located, is from 8:00 P.M. to 5:00 A.M. Additional curfews are declared in areas affected by fighting, ethnic violence, or conflict between rival political groups. Roadblocks and checkpoints controlled by the military are in effect in Kigali and throughout the country. Drug Penalties: Penalties for possession, use and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines. Tips For Travelers: Further information on travel to the area is available in the Department of State pamphlet, "Tips For Travelers To Sub-Saharan Africa," which is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. Registration: U.S. citizens who cannot avoid travel to Rwanda may contact the U.S. Embassy to register and obtain updated information on travel and security within Rwanda. No. 93-049 This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued February 17, 1993, to reflect the approval of voluntary authorized departure of dependents and non-essential employees from the U.S. Embassy in Kigali and to advise that the mountain gorillas are no longer accessible to tourists.