The U.S. Embassy in Mali is issuing this message to alert U.S. citizens to demonstrations scheduled for the morning of Thursday, March 27, 2014, in the neighborhood of Djicoroni, Bamako. People may begin gathering at the Liberty Monument (la Place de la Liberté) at 8:00 a.m. and proceed to the Ministry of Justice (Ministère de la Justice). This is a pro-government demonstration.
Malian national police will likely be present at this event.
The Embassy recommends avoiding these areas. U.S. citizens should remember that even demonstrations and gatherings intended to be peaceful can, without advanced warning, become confrontational. The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid crowds, political gatherings, and street demonstrations, and to exercise caution within the vicinity of any demonstration.
The U.S. Embassy in Mali reminds you to review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates. You should maintain a high level of vigilance, take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security, and follow instructions of local authorities.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Mali despite the Travel Warning enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates, and makes it easier for the U.S. embassy or nearest U.S. consulate to contact you in an emergency. If you do not have Internet access, enroll directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
For the latest security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly monitor the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs website where you can find the current Worldwide Caution and travel information, including the Travel Warning for Mali, and Country Specific Information. Follow us on Twitter and the Bureau of Consular Affairs page on Facebook as well.
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 United States and Canada or, from other countries, on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday through Friday, Eastern Time (except U.S. federal holidays).
The U.S. Embassy in Bamako is located at ACI 2000, Rue 243 Porte 297. The Consular Section can be contacted at +223 2070 2505, or via email at consularbamako@state.gov. If you are a U.S. citizen in need of urgent assistance, please contact the Embassy Duty Officer via the Marine Guard at +223 2070 2301 or 2070 2302.
