WARDEN MESSAGE 2007, Number 2

March 16, 2007

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

This warden message is to warn American citizens in Zimbabwe of the possibility of instability and political violence in coming days. Early next week, a wake and funeral march are planned for Gift Tandare, a member of a political opposition party, the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), who was killed on Sunday by the Zimbabwean Republic Police (ZRP) following an MDC prayer rally in Highfields. The wake is likely to take place outside Harvest House at the corner of Nelson Mandela and Angwa Streets in Harare. Police presence is expected to be heavy. American citizens should avoid downtown Harare during the funeral march and wake and exercise heightened caution when traveling around town.

Given the sensitivity of these events, there may be increased roadblocks and police presence across Zimbabwe over the weekend, particularly in urban centers. When instructed by police or other security officials to stop at a roadblock, comply with these instructions. Do not stop at any unofficial roadblocks. 

Avoid visiting high-density or industrial areas and any large gatherings or political rallies.  If possible, carry a mobile phone or other means of communication. 

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.