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Congo-Kinshasa travel - Consular Information Sheet
July 18, 2002
TRAVEL WARNING (Issued July 1, 2002): This Travel Warning is being reissued after periodic
review. It notes the slightly improved security situation in Congo-Kinshasa (The
Democratic Republic of the Congo) and the State Department's authorization for minor
children of Embassy employees to return to post. Despite the slight improvement, however,
the Department continues to warn U.S. citizens against travel to Congo-Kinshasa. This
Travel Warning supersedes the Warning issued on April 11, 2001.
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to Congo-Kinshasa. Despite some improvement in the security environment in Kinshasa, the capital, and recent advances in the peace process, Congo-Kinshasa remains unstable. Travel in the eastern provinces of the country, especially in rural areas, is considered to be highly insecure due to the number of uncontrolled militias operating there.
In January 2002, the Department authorized minor children of Embassy employees to return to the post. However, U.S. citizens living in Congo-Kinshasa should continue to review their personal security situations and exercise caution.
The Congolese government controls the central and southern regions of the country. Rebels in control of northern Congo have reached a power-sharing agreement with the government. A United Nations observer force has been deployed to a number of locations throughout the country, and in these areas, security has improved. Nevertheless, unofficial armed groups and active duty troops operating in some parts of the country are responsible for pillaging, vehicle thefts, carjackings, extra-judicial settling of differences, ethnic tensions, and continued military/paramilitary operations. Travelers run the risk of attack or detention. Travelers should avoid any area where demonstrations are occurring or where crowds are gathered. There are numerous military roadblocks throughout the country.
The Congolese government-imposed curfews are no longer in effect, although they could be reinstated if the security situation deteriorates.
In the past, U.S. citizens, English-speaking individuals of other nationalities and travelers who appear to be members of military or missionary groups have sometimes been targeted for arrest, detention, deportation, and increased scrutiny. They have also experienced difficulties at the airport and other ports of entry, or other forms of harassment. Some travelers arriving with Rwandan, Ugandan or Burundian visas or entry/exit stamps in their passports have experienced problems at the airport. A second passport without those markings may be advisable. Consular access to arrested/detained U.S. citizens cannot be guaranteed.
In April 2001, six workers of the International Committee of the Red Cross were murdered while working near Bunia in Orientale province. In May 2001, Mai Mai rebels kidnapped more than 20 individuals employed by a Thai logging company in North Kivu province.
COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: The Democratic Republic of the Congo (Congo-Kinshasa), located in central Africa, is one of the largest countries on the continent. The capital is Kinshasa. French is the official language. Years of civil war and corruption have badly damaged the country's infrastructure.
ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS: Visas should be obtained from an embassy of Congo-Kinshasa prior to arrival. Visa fees are expensive. Individuals who experience difficulty entering Congo-Kinshasa with a visa issued overseas are asked to contact the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa. Visitors and residents alike are often required to pay arbitrary and seemingly exorbitant fees in Congo-Kinshasa for extensions of their visas, resident permits and other documentation. Consistency in administering laws and regulations is notably absent. Travelers entering Congo-Kinshasa with visas and/or entry/exit stamps from Rwanda, Uganda or Burundi may experience difficulties at the airport or other ports of entry. Additional information about visas may be obtained from the Embassy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 1800 New Hampshire Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, tel. (202) 234-7690 or 234-7691, or Congo-Kinshasa's Permanent Mission to the U.N. at 2 Henry Avenue, North Caldwell, NJ 07006, tel. (201) 812-1636. Overseas, inquiries should be made at the nearest Congolese embassy or consulate.
In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit points. These often include requiring documentary evidence of relationship and permission for the child's travel from the parent(s) or legal guardian not present. Having such documentation on hand, even if not required, may facilitate entry/departure.
SAFETY AND SECURITY: Although a cease-fire is currently in effect, Congo-Kinshasa is not yet stable. The United Nations has authorized up to 500 observers throughout the country, supported by up to 5,000 military personnel. Where the UN Observer Force (MONUC) has deployed, security is improving. Elsewhere, it is tenuous. Rural areas, especially in the eastern provinces, are highly insecure. Congolese rebel groups supported by troops from Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi control the northern and eastern regions of the country. With support from Angolan and Zimbabwean troops, the government controls the western, central, and southern regions of the country, including its capital, Kinshasa. Although armed soldiers and police are common in urban areas, including Kinshasa, they are often ill trained, ill-paid and exhibit little effective command-and-control. The security forces often act arbitrarily, and may themselves pose a threat to the population instead of protecting them. These forces are often the perpetrators of crimes, mainly armed robberies.
The Congo-Kinshasa government has imposed curfews in the past with minimal warning; travelers should check locally to confirm the current curfew status. Ferries to and from Brazzaville do not operate after 6:00 p.m. Travel in the downtown parts of Kinshasa and Lubumbashi is generally safe. The outlying areas, including Kisangani, are less secure due to the lack of adequate training/supervision of the security/rebel forces present and high levels of criminal activity. Travelers should avoid civil disturbances that may occur without warning in all areas, and have the potential to turn violent. There have been episodes of hostility towards U.S. citizens and other expatriates.
Both inside and outside Kinshasa, there are numerous, often poorly marked, military roadblocks, especially after dark. Vehicles are often searched for weapons, and travelers are checked for identity papers. Troops regularly seek bribes and transportation. If confronted with such a situation, it is suggested that U.S. citizens not question the individual's authority, remain courteous, and report the incident to the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa as soon as possible.
Sporadic fighting continues along Congo's eastern border, where Rwandan and Burundian rebel groups mount attacks into their home countries. The Rwandan rebels include individuals who perpetrated the 1994 genocide in that country.
REGIONAL TERRORISM: One of the many extremist rebel factions in the Great Lakes region has committed violent acts against American citizens and interests. This faction was responsible for the March 1999 kidnapping and murder of several Western tourists, including Americans, in Uganda. In April 2001, six workers of the International Committee of the Red Cross were murdered while working in Congo-Kinshasa, near Bunia in Orientale Province. In May of 2001, irregular Mai Mai forces kidnapped more than 20 individuals employed by a Thai logging company in North Kivu Province.
CRIME: In Congo-Kinshasa, low levels of economic prosperity continue to promote crime, especially in urban areas. However, vehicle thefts, burglaries, and armed robbery occur throughout the country; carjackings occur in some regions. If confronted by members of the military or security forces, it is suggested that U.S. citizens be compliant and not resist. All incidents should be reported to the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa. Travelers should note that in the cases of theft and robbery, legal recourse is limited, and they may wish to leave all valuable items at home.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. If you are the victim of a crime while overseas, in addition to reporting to local police, please contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance. The embassy/consulate staff can, for example, assist you to find appropriate medical care, to contact family members or friends, and explain how funds could be transferred. Although the investigation and prosecution of the crime is solely the responsibility of local authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed. U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's pamphlets, A Safe Trip Abroad and Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa, for ways to promote a trouble-free journey. The pamphlets are available by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402, via the Internet at http://www.access.gpo.gov/su_docs or via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov.
MEDICAL FACILITIES: In Congo-Kinshasa, medical facilities are limited, and medicine and medical supplies are in short supply.
MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and if it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. U.S. medical insurance plans seldom cover health costs incurred outside the United States unless supplemental coverage is purchased. Further, U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. However, many travel agents and private companies offer insurance plans that will cover health care expenses incurred overseas, including emergency services such as medical evacuations.
When making a decision regarding health insurance, Americans should consider that many foreign doctors and hospitals require payment in cash prior to providing service and that a medical evacuation to the United States may cost well in excess of 50,000 dollars (US). Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas often face extreme difficulties. When consulting with your insurer prior to your trip, please ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas healthcare provider or if you will be reimbursed later for expenses that you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.
Useful information on medical emergencies abroad, including overseas insurance programs, is provided in the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs brochure, Medical Information for Americans Traveling Abroad, available via the Bureau of Consular Affairs home page or autofax: (202) 647-3000.
OTHER HEALTH INFORMATION: Information on vaccinations and other health precautions may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP(1-877-394-8747); fax 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299); or via the CDC's Internet site at http://www.cdc.gov.
TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Congo-Kinshasa is provided for general reference only, and it may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.
Safety of Public Transportation: Poor
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Poor
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Poor
Availability of Roadside Assistance: Poor/Non-Existent
Inter-city roads are poor and often impassable in the rainy season. When driving in cities, travelers should keep car windows up and doors locked. At roadblocks or checkpoints, documents should be shown through closed windows. In the event of a traffic incident involving bodily injury to a third party or pedestrian, travelers should not stop to offer assistance under any circumstances. They should proceed directly to the nearest police station or gendarmerie to report the incident and request official government intervention. Attempting to provide assistance may further aggravate the incident, resulting in a hostile mob reaction such as stoning.
Presidential and other official motorcades pose serious risks to drivers and pedestrians in Kinshasa. When you hear the sirens or see security forces announcing the motorcade's approach, please pull off the road as far as possible, and stop your vehicle. Do not take pictures. Do not use your cellular telephone, radio or any other communication devices. Do not restart your vehicle or move until the entire motorcade has passed by (the security forces will physically indicate when this has occurred). Failure to comply may result in arrest. Drivers should stop their car when passing a government installation during the raising and lowering of the Congolese flag. This ceremony occurs at roughly 7:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Visitors who wish to travel in the mining areas must first obtain governmental approval.
For additional general information about road safety, including links to foreign government sites, please see the Department of State, Bureau of Consular Affairs home page at http://travel.state.gov/road_safety.html.
RIVER TRAVEL: Ferry service between Kinshasa and Brazzaville stops running in the late afternoon, and it may close completely with minimal notice. If ferry service is functioning, a special exit permit from Congo-Kinshasa's Immigration Service and a visa from a Congo-Brazzaville embassy/consulate are required to cross the Congo River from Kinshasa to Brazzaville.
Ferry and riverboat service to the Central African Republic is suspended due to rebel control of the Ubangui River.
AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Government of Congo-Kinshasa's Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international aviation safety standards for oversight of Congo-Kinshasa's air carrier operations. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the United States at tel. 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA's Internet website at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa.
The Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign air carriers and has put many Congolese carriers on non-use status for their personnel. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact the DOD at tel. (618) 229-4801.
CURRENCY REGULATIONS: The economy has been plagued by high inflation. However, the government recently implemented reforms to stabilize the currency. Nevertheless, U.S. dollars now circulate freely with Congolese francs in Congo-Kinshasa. Dollars can be exchanged for francs at commercial banks and licensed money-changing operations.
American Express, Visa, Master Card and Diner's Club are accepted for payment of bills at Kinshasa's two major hotels, the Memling Hotel and the Grand Hotel. No other businesses in Congo-Kinshasa accept credit cards. Credit cards may not be used at banks to obtain cash advances. It is very difficult to cash traveler's checks in the Congo. Traveler's checks may occasionally be accepted if accompanied with a letter from a bank confirming the issuance of the traveler's checks to the individual cashing them, but this is at the bank's discretion. Generally, the use of traveler's checks is not advised in Congo-Kinshasa because banks charge substantial fees for cashing them. Traveler's checks are rarely accepted outside of Kinshasa.
PHOTOGRAPHY RESTRICTIONS: Photographing public buildings, military installations, airports and the banks of the Congo River is forbidden. Offenders can expect to be arrested, held for at least several hours and fined. Film and cameras may also be confiscated. Due to the threat of harassment and the lack of signs designating sites prohibited for photography, photography is best practiced in private homes and among friends.
CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens are subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for similar offenses. Persons violating Congolese laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, and trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
The number of expatriate arrests, including American citizens, has increased recently for both civil and criminal cases. Detainees are generally held until a "fine" or "tax" is paid. Consular access is sporadic, and prisoners are seldom allowed private meetings with their attorneys.
DISASTER PREPAREDNESS: Continued seismic activity occurs in the Goma and Lake Kivu area following the January 17, 2002 eruption of Mount Nyiragongo. General information about natural disaster preparedness is available via the Internet from the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at http://www.fema.gov/.
CHILDREN'S ISSUES: For information on international adoption of children or international parental child abduction, please refer to our Internet site at http://travel.state.gov/children's_issues.html or telephone (202) 736-7000.
REGISTRATION/EMBASSY LOCATION: U.S. citizens are strongly encouraged to register at the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa upon their arrival and to obtain updated information on safety and security within Congo-Kinshasa. The U.S. Embassy is located at 310 Avenue des Aviateurs, tel. 243-88-43608. Entrance to the Consular Section of the Embassy is on Avenue Dumi, opposite Ste. Anne residence. The Consular Section of the Embassy may also be reached at tel. 243-88-43608, extension 2164/2376 or 243-88-46859 or 44609; fax 243-88-00228, 43467 or 03276. Cellular phones are the norm, as other telephone service is often unreliable.
* * *
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 24, 2001, to include the
revised Travel Warning and sections on River Travel and Disaster Preparedness, and to
update the sections on Country Description, Entry/Exit Requirements, Safety and Security,
Regional Terrorism, Crime, Medical Insurance, Currency Regulations, and
Registration/Embassy Locations.