WARDEN MESSAGE 2007, Number 1

This is a warden message from the U.S. Embassy in Harare.

On Sunday, March 11, 2007 there have been confirmed reports of rioting and politically-motivated arrests in the southern suburbs of Harare. The police have arrested several leaders of the opposition political party, Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), and there are increased roadblocks in and around Harare, particularly in the southern suburbs and the Harare-Masvingo Road.

At this time there are no reports of incidents targeting American citizens.  American citizens are advised to exercise heightened caution when traveling around town, particularly in southern Harare.  Avoid the Masvingo Road, particularly the Masvingo roundabout. Avoid visiting high-density areas and any large gatherings or political rallies.  If possible, carry a mobile phone or other means of communication.  When instructed by police or other security officials to stop at a roadblock, comply with these instructions.  Do not stop at any unofficial roadblocks. 

For the latest security information, Americans living and traveling abroad should regularly monitor the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov, where the current Worldwide Cautions, 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 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). 

American citizens can register their presence in Zimbabwe via the Internet at <http://harare.usembassy.gov> or in person at the U.S. Embassy in Harare, located at 172 Herbert Chitepo Avenue (Tel.: 263-4-250-593/4/5).  In the event of an after-hours emergency, please call the above number and ask to be transferred to the duty officer.