Emergency Messages

U.S. Embassy Bamako, Mali
Emergency Message to American Citizens – Possible Demonstrations in Bamako October 27, 2011

The U.S. Embassy in Bamako is issuing this emergency message to advise U.S. citizens that a demonstration may occur in memory of the death of former Libyan leader Qadhafi and opposition to the NATO campaign on Friday, October 28 following mid-day prayers (around 1:00-2:00 p.m.).

If it does materialize, the demonstration would likely start near the Grand Mosque and move towards the French Embassy (near the north side of the old bridge), then onward to the U.S. Embassy.  Traffic is likely to be disrupted along the routes of the demonstration which may include the areas around Quartier du fleuve, ACI 2000, the Old Bridge, River Road, Peace Monument and the New Bridge.  

The Malian Government indicated that it has not authorized any demonstration.   Should even an authorized demonstration grow violent, however, the police may move to disperse protesters.  It is also possible that others in support of the new Transitional National Council (TNC) in Libya may counter-demonstrate, which could result in a clash between the opposing groups.

As with any demonstration, peaceful or violent, U.S. Embassy Bamako urges everyone to avoid the above areas during the scheduled times.  Most demonstrations are generally contained and non-violent but can get out of control very quickly.  If you happen to be in an area in which a demonstration is occurring try to leave the area quickly.  If this is not possible try maintaining a low profile until such time as you are able to get out of the area.

You can stay in touch and get Embassy updates by checking the U.S. Embassy Bamako web site (http://mali.usembassy.gov/).  You can get global updates at the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs website (http://travel.state.gov/) where you can find the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Contry Specific Information (http://travel.state.gov/travel.cis_0a_tw/cis/cis_962.html).  If you don't have internet access, we have a call center for updates: 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the U.S. and Canada, or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except federal holidays).

If you are going to live in or travel to Mali, please take the time to tell us about your trip by enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP - https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ul/ ).  If you enroll, we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements.  It will also help your family and friends get in touch with you in an emergency.  You should remember to keep all of your information in STEP up to date.  It is important during enrollment or updating of information to include your current phone number and current email address where you can be reached in case of an emergency.

The U.S. Embassy in Bamako (http://mali.usembassy.gov/) 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.  For after-hours emergencies, please contact the Embassy Duty Officer via the Marine Guard at +223 2070 2301 or 2070 2302.