Warden Message 2008, Number 2

Embassy of the United States of America
Harare, Zimbabwe

2008 Warden Message, Number 2

February 19, 2008

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

On February 15, 2008, the State Department issued the following Travel Alert for Zimbabwe:

This Travel Alert is being issued to inform U.S. citizens of safety and security concerns related to the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections in Zimbabwe scheduled for Saturday, March 29, 2008.  This Travel Alert expires on May 1, 2008.

The national election season in Zimbabwe may pose a security threat to U.S. citizens in Zimbabwe.  Previous elections in 2000, 2002 and 2005 were contentious and sparked food, water and fuel shortages, as well as occasional outbreaks of violence.  Given the present, significantly weaker, Zimbabwean economy, chronic hyperinflation, and ongoing shortages, the 2008 election season has the potential to generate widespread instability and violence.

Demonstrations and general unrest may occur during this period.  The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens who live, work, or are traveling in Zimbabwe to maintain a high level of vigilance.  Avoid visiting high-density suburbs, industrial zones, and unfamiliar areas.  Be aware of your surroundings and avoid potentially threatening events such as demonstrations, rallies, or other public gatherings. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. 

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.

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.