United States Embassy Bamako, Mali
January 10, 2016
The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens that there may be severe traffic disruptions in Bamako before and during the Africa-France Summit. The Africa-France Summit will take place in Bamako on January 13-14, with most African countries represented, including many heads of state. Throughout the week, security checkpoints, road blocks, and an overall increased security presence is expected throughout Bamako. Access to the area surrounding the Bamako International Conference Center and the Cité Administrative will be prohibited (see map).
Starting the evening of Thursday, January 12 the main route from Bamako International Airport to the Kwame Nkrumah Monument in ACI-2000, including the King Fahd Bridge, will be closed throughout the period of the Summit (see map). This will result in multiple road closures and diverted traffic. Expect traffic congestion in and around the airport, bridges, and hotels.
On January 12th and 13th the Consular Section will be closed for routine services and will provide emergency services only. Please refer to the emergency contact information below.
Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.
For further information:
- See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Mali Country Specific Information.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Contact the U.S. Embassy in Bamako, located at ACI 2000, Rue 243 Porte 297, at +223 20 70 25 05 at 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from Monday– Thursday; 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Friday. The after-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is +223 66 75 95 79 or +223 66 75 28 60.
- General information may be found on the State Department’s travel website, including the Worldwide Caution of September 9th.
- Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
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