The U.S. Embassy has received information of probable Burundi National Police training this Sunday, December 17, which may include controlled explosive detonations as part of the exercise. The training explosions are expected to occur between 0800-1300 hours and will take place in Ngagara Q10 at the National Police Headquarters. The public should expect to hear …

United States Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi Security Message for U.S. Citizens:  Gatherings Near U.S. Embassy In Progress   November 25, 2017   The U.S. Embassy has received information that a peaceful gathering is taking place approximately two blocks southeast of the Embassy in the empty fields on Avenue des États-Unis. People appear to be coming from all …

United States Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Peaceful Demonstration Planned for Tomorrow November 18, 2017      November 17, 2017   The U.S. Embassy has learned that peaceful marches are being planned for this Saturday, November 18, in Bujumbura and other communes throughout Burundi.  Most events will be held in the morning hours and …

United States Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Peaceful Demonstration Underway in Bujumbura            November 11, 2017   The U.S. Embassy has received information that a peaceful demonstration is underway in Bujumbura. These gatherings are moving along Chaussee Peuple Murundi toward Centre-Ville. The demonstration may cause traffic disruptions and road closures in Centre-Ville, lasting …

Peaceful March Underway in Bujumbura October 28, 2017 The U.S. Embassy has received information that a peaceful march is taking place this morning, Saturday, October 28, 2017, in Bujumbura. Participants are gathering at Point ONU and will likely move towards Place de l’Independence. The march may cause traffic disruptions and/or road closures in Centre-Ville lasting …

The U.S. Embassy has received information that there will be a large peaceful gathering on Saturday, September 16, 2017, in Bujumbura.  Coming from all directions, the participants will gather at the sports fields located at the intersection of Avenue du Large and Avenue de 13 Octobre (near Circle Nautique/Hippo Hole).  The gathering may turn into …

United States Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Planned Peaceful Protests Against UN September 2, 2017 The U.S. Embassy has received information that protests against the United Nations are being planned for this morning, Saturday, September 2, 2017, throughout Bujumbura. Participants will likely assemble and move towards Centre-Ville, with possible stops at UN …

United States Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Imbonerakure “Demonstration of Force” Rally Planned July 21, 2017 The U.S. Embassy has received information that the Imbonerakure, the youth league of the ruling CNDD-FDD party, is planning a “demonstration of force” rally for this Saturday, July 22. Participants will likely assemble in or move …

July 11, 2017 Burundian police have confirmed a grenade attack took place this evening at approximately 9:00 p.m. in the Centre-ville Bujumbura neighborhood of Bwiza. The incident has concluded and police have the situation under control, although three injuries were reported. The Embassy recommends avoiding the area for the evening. Review your personal security plans, …

United States Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi May 12, 2017 The U.S. Embassy has received information that peaceful demonstrations are being planned throughout Burundi tomorrow, Saturday, May 13, to commemorate the second anniversary of the failed coup d’etat in May of 2015. In Bujumbura, the events may cause intermittent traffic disruption and/or road closures during the morning …

The U.S. Embassy would like to notify U.S. citizens of a peaceful pro-government gathering being planned for Saturday, May 6, 2017, from approximately 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., near the Terrain Tempete.  Roads such as Avenue d’Octobre, Avenue du Large, and Avenue du Cercle Nautique may be closed during those times. Even events intended to be peaceful …

The U.S. Embassy would like to notify U.S. citizens of multiple locally planned peaceful marches starting today and continuing through this weekend.  In addition, it is possible that unplanned events will occur spontaneously throughout Bujumbura and other cities in Burundi. On Friday, April 28, from approximately 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., a large group is planning …

The Embassy has received information that a large gathering is taking place at Prince Louis Rwagasore Stadium. The group will likely travel towards Centre-Ville, stopping at multiple locations. Expect temporary and/or rolling road closures in Centre-Ville until approximately 12:00. Even events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. The U.S. Embassy …

The U.S. Embassy has received information that a large protest is walking along Avenue 28 Novembre.  This group will likely pass through the neighborhoods of Rohero and Kiriri where mission staff is housed.  Expect temporary and/or rolling road closures in Bujumbura until approximately 12:00 noon. Even events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and …

The U.S. Embassy has received information that demonstrations against the United Nations are being planned for Saturday, March 4, 2017. It is anticipated that major points in and around Place de l’Independence and centre-ville in Bujumbura will be affected. Expect temporary road closures throughout the city and especially on major thoroughfares from 8:00 am until …

The U.S. Embassy has received information that Avenue Belvedere will be closed today, Monday, February 6, from approximately 9 a.m. until 12:00 noon due to peaceful Unity Day ceremonies being held at the Monument de l’Unite Nationale (at the top of Kiriri). Even events intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.  …

U.S. Embassy Bujumbura encourages U.S. citizens to maintain a high level of vigilance on and around the Burundi public holidays of Christmas Day (December 25) and Independence Day (January 1). Incidents of crime and violence typically spike in Burundi during the holiday season. You should expect an increased security presence throughout the country during the …

The U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. citizens in Burundi that at this time of year, Burundi security forces routinely increase the number of vehicle and home searches they conduct. The U.S. Embassy makes the following recommendations for handling these events safely and calmly. Checkpoints: Slow down when approaching checkpoints. Turn on your interior vehicle light at …

The U.S. Embassy has learned that a March for Peace is planned for December 10 in the downtown area of Bujumbura. The exact start time and place are unknown, but road closures and traffic congestion in the center of town are likely until noon. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate …

U.S. Embassy Bujumbura continues to advise all U.S. citizens living in Burundi of heightened security concerns regarding regional terror groups that remain actively interested in attacking U.S. and other Western and local interests in Burundi. U.S. Embassy Bujumbura has received specific information leading to concern about potential activity in early December, including, but not limited …

This Emergency Message is to alert all U.S. citizens living in Burundi of heightened security concerns that regional terror groups remain actively interested in attacking U.S. and other Western and local interests in Burundi. U.S. Embassy Bujumbura has received specific information leading to concern about potential activity in early December, including, but not limited to, …

The U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura has received information that a potentially large protest tomorrow, 26 November, against the United Nations Commission of Inquiry announced this past Wednesday is expected in both Bujumbura and throughout Burundi. In Bujumbura, marches are tentatively scheduled to start at 7:00 a.m. at Place de l’Indépendence, and proceed to various locations around the city. Roads may be …

The U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura is informing U.S. citizens of potential periodic traffic congestion and closure of Boulevard Mwambusta (westward from Avenue des Etats-Unis) due to special events in the area through the evening of Friday, November 18, 2016.  U.S. citizens are advised to consider alternate routes while traveling today and tomorrow. Even events intended to be …

The U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura is informing U.S. citizens that Boulevard Mwambutsa is currently heavily congested and traffic is restricted because of special events in the area (westward from Avenue des Etats-Unis up to Chausee du Peuple Murundi at the traffic circle).  U.S. citizens are advised to consider an alternate route while travelling this evening …

October 8, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information that a crowd has gathered this morning in Place d’Independence and is marching through the center of Bujumbura. We estimate the size of the demonstration to be approximately 1000 people. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Avoid areas where …

October 3, 2016 Due to police activity on Avenue des Etats-Unis this morning, please avoid using this route to travel to the Embassy. The Embassy can still be accessed via Avenue de Cinquantenaire. Please review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates. Be …

October 1, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information that a crowd has gathered this morning in front of the OHCHR headquarters in Rohero. This is anticipated to be a peaceful event. Portions of Boulevard de l’Uprona may be blocked off. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. Avoid …

September 23, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information that protests against the United Nations report of the U.N. Independent Investigation on Burundi (UNIIB) are expected in major cities across Burunditomorrow morning, Saturday, September 24, 2016. In Bujumbura, plans are not set for a start point, but it is expected that any protest will proceed to the …

September 17, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information that a crowd is gathering this morning at Gare du Nord to celebrate the anniversary of the elections. From there the crowd may march to the Place de l’Independance. This is anticipated to be a peaceful event that should be over by mid- to late-afternoon. Even …

August 9, 2016 The U.S. Embassy continues to warn U.S. citizens of political violence persisting throughout Burundi in the aftermath of the country’s contested elections. Travel in Burundi presents significant risks, especially after nightfall. U.S. Embassy personnel travel in Burundi is limited and monitored. The U.S. Embassy advises citizens to review the Travel Warning issued …

August 6, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura informs U.S. citizens that demonstration activity has been announced for this morning, August 6, at 10:00 a.m., in Centre-Ville and around the French Embassy (Boulevard l’UPRONA) in regards to the UN resolution. U.S. citizens are advised to exercise caution. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn …

July 29, 2016 The U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura informs U.S. citizens that a protest march has been planned for tomorrow, July 30, 2016, starting at 7:30 a.m. at Place d’Independance and moving to the French Embassy (Boulevard l’UPRONA). U.S. citizens are advised to exercise caution in Centre-Ville. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into …

May 14, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information about a possible protest/march planned for Saturday, May 14. Embassy personnel have been asked to exercise caution in the neighborhood of Kigobe, near the intersection of Boulevard 28 Novembre and Avenue des Etats-Unis. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence. …

April 29, 2016 The U.S. Embassy has received information of a protest/march planned for this afternoon, commemorating the 44th anniversary of the 1972 genocide. The event will begin at 15:00 at la Place des Martyrs de la Democratie au Burundi, which is located in Centreville. At 15:30, a march will begin at this location and …

Friday, March 11, 2016 The U.S. Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against all travel to Burundi. The Department of State has terminated Ordered Departure status for Embassy Bujumbura, thereby allowing non-emergency personnel and adult dependents employed at the Embassy to return to Burundi. Minors and non-employed adult dependents of Embassy personnel have …

Saturday, December 26, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Burundi has received information that possible protests are planned for today, Saturday, December 26, 2015. Considering recent violence in Bujumbura, we recommend U.S. citizens avoid large gatherings of people, maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance their personal security. U.S. citizens remaining …

Thursday, December 24, 2015 U.S. Embassy Bujumbura would like to inform U.S. citizens that historically there has been an increase in criminal activity, especially robbery and theft, during the holiday season. U.S. citizens in Burundi should remain cautious during this period and consider the following security practices: If you are the victim of a robbery, …

Thursday, December 31, 2015 As a precautionary measure for New Year’s Eve celebrations, U.S. Embassy personnel in Burundi have been directed to limit non-essential movement in Bujumbura and avoid areas where regular police checkpoints are located after dark for the evening of December 31, 2015. Private U.S. citizens are advised to take similar precautions. U.S. …

Thursday, December 17, 2015 Heightened Security Situation Due to a heightened security situation, over the next two days personnel at U.S. Embassy Bujumbura will be subject to a 6:30 p.m. curfew after which they will be ordered to restrict all movement. U.S. Citizens in Burundi are similarly encouraged to stay home and to avoid travel …

Saturday, December 12, 2015 Given the risk of continued violence in Bujumbura, U.S. Embassy personnel in Burundi have been directed to limit non-essential movement in Bujumbura and are subject to a 9:00 pm curfew until further notice. Private U.S. citizens are advised to take similar precautions. U.S. citizens who are planning to travel to Burundi …

December 13, 2015 The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens against all travel to Burundi and recommends that U.S. citizens currently in Burundi depart as soon as it is feasible to do so. As a result of continuing violence, the Department of State ordered the departure of dependents of U.S. government personnel and non-emergency …

December 13, 2015 The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens against all travel to Burundi and recommends that U.S. citizens currently in Burundi depart as soon as it is feasible to do so. As a result of continuing violence, the Department of State ordered the departure of dependents of U.S. government personnel and non-emergency …

Friday, December 11, 2015 Due to ongoing reports of sustained gunfire and explosions in several parts of Bujumbura, the U.S. Embassy is ordering its personnel to shelter in place until further notice. Private U.S. citizens are advised to take similar precautions. U.S. citizens who are planning to travel to Burundi or are currently staying in …

Sunday, November 29, 2015 U.S. Embassy Bujumbura has become aware that Burundian National Police searched at least two residences of U.S. citizens associated with NGOs on Saturday, November 28, 2015.  Because of this, Embassy Bujumbura reissues the following information on cooperating with police in a residential search. The Embassy recommends U.S. citizens cooperate with Burundian …

Friday, November 20, 2015 | United States Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi The U.S. Embassy in Burundi has received information that the youth wing of the ruling party is possibly planning protests for the upcoming weekend around unknown locations.  Considering the ongoing violence in Bujumbura, which includes recent daytime grenade attacks in Kamenge, Musaga, and Bunyenzi, we …

Friday, November 6, 2015 U.S. Embassy Bujumbura advises U.S. citizens of the potential for violence over the weekend and in the following days. This violence could be a result of an ultimatum announced in a speech by President Nkurunziza this week for individuals in Burundi to turn in any arms they currently have. The Embassy …

United States Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi | Friday, November 6, 2015 U.S. Embassy Bujumbura advises U.S. citizens of the potential for violence over the weekend and in the following days. Please note that U.S. government personnel have been asked to defer all non-emergency travel to Burundi during this time period. This violence could be a result …

Friday, September 11, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Burundi has received information that celebrations will be held throughout the country to recognize the reelection of the President tomorrow, Saturday, September 12. The Embassy recommends that all U.S. citizens exercise caution, avoid any celebratory festivities or large crowds, and take appropriate steps to enhance their personal …

Friday, August 21, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Burundi has received information that the funeral for Adolphe Nishimirimana will be held tomorrow morning, Saturday August 22, in the Regina Mundi Cathedral in Bujumbura, followed by burial in Kamenge. A heavy security presence with road closures is expected, particularly in the areas of Boulevard 28 November …

Sunday, August 2, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Burundi is closely following ongoing political developments in the country. As a security precaution, the Embassy has advised its mission personnel to minimize movement in the capital of Bujumbura. U.S. citizens in Bujumbura are advised to do the same until further notice. The Embassy also alerts U.S. …

Tuesday, July 28, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Burundi constantly reviews its security posture and makes changes based on current situations. At this time, the Embassy has removed its curfew for mission personnel and is not restricting movement within Bujumbura during daylight hours. However there is still a risk for violence and U.S. citizens who …

Monday, July 20, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura will be closed July 21, during the presidential election.  The U.S. Embassy has restricted travel for its personnel during this time as a security precaution.  U.S. citizens should likewise exercise caution and limit travel during this period. U.S. citizens requiring emergency embassy services may call the …

Friday, July 10, 2015 In light of the potential for violence related to the ongoing Burundian national election cycle, the U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura has instituted a 10:00 p.m. curfew for its personnel. We recommend U.S. citizens exercise caution, maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance their personal security. U.S. …

June 26, 2015 In light of the potential for violence related to the Burundian national election cycle commencing June 29, the U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura reminds U.S. citizens that the Burundi Travel Alert  issued May 8 and the Burundi Travel Warning  issued May 14 remain in effect. Below is text from the Travel Warning: The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. …

Wednesday, May 27, 2015 The U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura wishes to remind U.S. citizens that political demonstrations and protests – along with the potential for gunfire and other violence – may continue throughout the upcoming weeks in Bujumbura and other locations in Burundi. On 14 May, the Department of State issued a Travel Warning to …

U.S. Embassy Bujumbura would like to inform all U.S. Citizens that due to increased insecurity, the Embassy will be closed on Friday, May 15, 2015. The Embassy recommends that all U.S. citizens exercise extreme caution at this time. If you are in a safe location, the Embassy recommends you remain where you are as travel …

May 14, 2015 | United States Embassy Bujumbura In response to increasing violence in multiple locations across Bujumbura, there will be no movement of Embassy personnel until further notice. The Embassy recommends that all U.S. citizens exercise extreme caution at all times. If you are in a safe location, the Embassy recommends you remain where …

May 13, 2015 U.S. Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi The U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura has received reports of increased military and security forces activity in Bujumbura. There is the potential for increased violence. The embassy is attempting to gather additional information and will share it as it becomes available. The embassy has instructed its employees to stay …

May 13, 2015 The U.S. Embassy alerts U.S. citizens that Burundi has closed its land borders until further notice.  The International Airport is currently closed.  Brussels Airlines cancelled tonight’s flight from Bujumbura to Brussels, and its flight coming in from Brussels has been rerouted to Nairobi.  Kenya Airways and RwandAir have cancelled their flights until …

May 5, 2015 The U.S. Embassy alerts U.S. citizens residing in and visiting Burundi of information of possible terrorist threats to locations, including hotels, where Westerners, including U.S. citizens, congregate in Bujumbura, Burundi. The U.S. Embassy takes this opportunity to remind all U.S. citizens to review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, …

Political demonstrations and protests in Bujumbura and other locations in Burundi are expected to continue through the week. Protesters may march toward and demonstrate in the Bujumbura city center as well as other neighborhoods. In the event that you hear gunfire nearby, find a safe place in an interior room and remain low to the …

Wednesday, April 29, 2015 United States Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi The U.S. Embassy alerts U.S. citizens of reports of gunfire in the area of Gatoke, and ongoing protests in Musaga and Nyakabiga.  In the event that you hear gunfire nearby, find a safe place in an interior room and remain low to the ground. Do not go …

Monday, April 27, 2015 The U.S. Embassy alerts U.S. citizens residing in and visiting Burundi that major political protests are expected today, Monday, April 27. The protests are expected to take place in various areas of Bujumbura, including the city center, and may also occur in the interior of the country. The protests are intended …

April 26, 2015 The U.S. Embassy alerts U.S. citizens residing in and visiting Burundi that a major political protest is expected today, Sunday, April 26.  The protest is planned to begin at Gare du Nord in Kamenge and move to Cathedral Regina Mundi. The protest is intended to oppose the third term candidacy of President …

Thursday, April 23, 2015 | United States Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi The U.S. Embassy alerts U.S. citizens residing in and visiting Burundi that a major political party meeting is expected during the weekend of April 25-26, 2015. Political demonstrations and protests may occur in Bujumbura and other locations in Burundi during this time. U.S. citizens should …

Opposition parties and dissenting members of the ruling CNDD-FDD party have announced that they intend to stage a protest in Bujumbura against the proposed 3rd term candidacy of President Nkurunziza on April 17, 2015. The protest is scheduled to take place at Place De L’Independence, Centre Ville and may continue on to other areas of …

Friday, April 10, 2015 United States Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi Political Rallies The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens residing in Bujumbura that political rallies are scheduled in Bujumbura during the weekend of Saturday, April 11 and Sunday April 12, 2015.  The rallies reportedly include a march from the CNDD-FDD political party’s headquarters near the “UN Circle” …

March 26, 2015 | United States Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens residing in Burundi that civil society organizations and labor unions in Bujumbura are calling for demonstrations to take place on March 27, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. at the national stadium to protest fuel prices and shortages, proposed telecom taxes, and …

March 19, 2015 The U.S. Embassy alerts U.S. citizens residing in Burundi that “peace” demonstrations have been planned in Bujumbura by the Burundian government on the last Saturday of each month throughout the election season, which is expected to end by August 24, 2015. These demonstrations are planned to begin at 10:00 a.m. in the …

March 4, 2015 The U.S. Embassy alerts U.S. citizens residing in Burundi that there will be a general work strike to protest high fuel prices and a proposed telecoms tax, in Bujumbura on Thursday March 5, 2015.  Public transportation and other services may be unavailable. The general strike has been announced as a “stay at …

November 21, 2014 The U.S. Embassy would like to inform U.S. citizens that the Burundian authorities have been searching people’s homes for weapons in certain areas of Bujumbura. These searches do not target U.S. citizens or other foreigners. The police have stated that these searches are in response to a recent uptick in crime in …

November 20, 2014 | U.S. Embassy Bujumbura, Burundi In view of the ongoing al-Shabaab terrorism threat to attack East African countries and sporadic cases of political violence in Burundi, the U.S. Embassy reminds U.S. Citizens to maintain a heightened state of alert for suspicious activity and to avoid large crowds such as sporting events and …

November 4, 2014 Over the last few weeks there has been an increase in crime in certain neighborhoods of Bujumbura, particularly after dark.  The U.S. Embassy reiterates its advice to all U.S. citizens to exercise caution and maintain security awareness at all times by applying the following measures: In your home: Do not leave valuables …