The U.S. Embassy in Mali is issuing this security message to inform U.S. citizens of a planned peaceful demonstration on Friday, September 19 at 8 a.m. in Bamako in support of imprisoned General Amadou Haya Sanogo. The demonstration is expected to begin at the Place de la Liberté and will likely proceed to the Prime Minister’s office, passing by the Babemba Cinema, and the Independence Monument.
The Embassy reminds U.S. citizens to exercise caution and maintain situational awareness at all times, and to take appropriate security precautions to ensure their own safety. While the Embassy expects the demonstration to proceed without violence there will likely be a heavy security presence and traffic diversions during the event. The Embassy has recommended that its staff avoid the area, and private U.S. citizens are advised to do the same.
Even demonstrations or events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. You should avoid areas of demonstrations, and exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations. If you happen to be near a demonstration, leave the area if it is safe to do so. If this is not possible, maintain a low profile until such time as you are able to relocate.
We strongly recommend that U.S. citizens traveling to or residing in Mali despite the existing Travel Warning for Mali 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 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. 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.
