U.S. Embassy Update

Since I've signed up for the State Department's STEP program, I receive emails from the US Embassy. If you are interested in signing up, just Google search: State Department STEP. Schools are closed nationwide all week, so I'll be finishing up my site analysis report and just generally getting to know my site better!

U.S. Embassy Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso

Security Message for U.S. Citizens:

Reminder National Day of Protest and Additional Demonstrations

October 28, 2014

The U.S. Embassy in Burkina Faso reminds U.S. citizens of the upcoming demonstrations planned in downtown Ouagadougou October 27 – 30.

The U.S. Embassy will remain open during this period.  

Planned Demonstrations:

October 28 at 8:00 am: The political opposition plans to hold a day of protest to commence its “civil disobedience campaign.”  The march will likely proceed along the following route:  Place de la Nation-Avenue Gamel Addel Nasser-Avenue Monseigneur Joanny Thevenoud-Avenue de la Cathédrale-Avenue Kwame N’Krumah-UN Plaza, and back to Place de la Nation.  In Bobo-Dioulasso, a rally will commence at 8:00 am at the Place Tiefo Amoror (Station Square) and proceed to City Hall.  Additionally, the opposition calls for the closure of Burkinabe government facilities, commercial establishments, and schools. 

October 29 at 6:00 am: The Coalition Contre la Vie Chere (Coalition Against a High Cost of Living) or the political opposition hold a march and gathering in downtown Ouagadougou

October 30: The National Assembly will reportedly vote on the proposed constitutional change.  The opposition has called for a sit-down strike surrounding the National Assembly building to block voting members from casting their vote.

The U.S. Embassy anticipates additional spontaneous demonstrations will occur with little to no advanced warning throughout Burkina Faso until a resolution is reached.  Additional organized events are also expected.

It is reasonable to expect large demonstrations similar to those supported by the opposition in January and July 2014.  The National Police have increased patrols and established fixed positions throughout Ouagadougou to enable a shorter response time to spontaneous demonstrations.

The U.S. Embassy urges all U.S. citizens to maintain situational awareness and exercise good judgment.  The U.S. Embassy urges U.S. citizens to exercise caution if in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.  Please remember, even demonstrations or marches intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.  Be alert and remain aware of your surroundings.  Stay informed and abreast of local media reports.

The closure of roads and businesses associated with the “civil disobedience campaign” may limit the purchase of supplies.  The U.S. Embassy urges all U.S. citizens to stock enough food, potable water, and other essential supplies at your home for your entire family.