2008 Warden Message, Number 13

May 9, 2008

This warden message is to alert Americans in Zimbabwe to the potential for an increase in violence or instability associated with the possible return to Zimbabwe of opposition party Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) leader Morgan Tsvangirai in the coming days. If Mr. Tsvangirai does return to Zimbabwe, his arrival may trigger a larger than normal police presence through Harare, particularly in high-density and industrial areas. High tensions may result in spontaneous demonstrations or isolated clashes between Zimbabwean government forces and opposition supporters.

Americans in Zimbabwe should exercise heightened awareness as they move about Harare over the coming days, avoiding large gatherings of any kind.

Americans should continue to exercise extreme care when traveling to rural communities in Zimbabwe given continued credible reports of violence and intimidation across the country.

We strongly recommend that American citizens register their presence in Zimbabwe via the Internet at https://travelregistration.state.gov  or in person at the U.S. Embassy in Harare, located at 172 Herbert Chitepo Avenue (Tel. 263-4-250-593/4/5, email consularharare@state.gov).  In the event of an after-hours emergency, please call the above number and ask to be transferred to the duty officer.

We will continue to provide information to you via email, text message, the internet and Voice of America radio broadcasts (909 on the AM dial or on Shortwave at 4930, 13755, or 15775 Khz) as events unfold.  You are always welcome to contact us at the phone, fax and email numbers listed above.

As the Department of State continues to develop information on any potential security threats to U.S. citizens overseas, it shares credible threat information through its consular information program documents, available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.