Location: Monument de l’Independance and the French Embassy
Event: The U.S. Embassy has heard reports that the Mouvement Populaire du 4 Septembre (MP4) has called for a rally on Tuesday, September 15, at 2:00 PM at the Monument de l’Independance to express support for Mali’s de facto authority, the National Committee for the Salvation of the People (CNSP).
Additionally, the Popular African Youth Movement (MPJA) has called for a sit-in front of the French Embassy on Thursday, September 17, at 10:00 AM to denounce French military forces.
Spontaneous demonstrations are also possible in other areas of Mali. Demonstrations sometimes turn violent, resulting in the burning of tires, clashes with the police, blockage on the roads and bridges, throwing of rocks at vehicles, the deployment of tear gas, and small arms fire.
American citizens are advised to:
- Avoid the area of the demonstrations
- Exercise caution if traveling, especially when crossing the bridges
- Do not attempt to drive through protests or roadblocks
- Avoid travel late at night
- Continue to exercise vigilance while in Mali
- Exercise caution if in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests
- Review your personal security plans
- Keep a low profile
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Keep some form of communication with you
- Monitor local media for updates
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Bamako, Mali
- +223 20 70 23 00
- +223 66 75 28 60 (after-hours emergencies)
- State Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs – 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
- Follow us on Twitter and Facebook
- See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Country Specific Information for Mali.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
