Security Message for U.S. Citizens: Planned Protests at U.S. Embassy

U.S. Embassy Nouakchott is aware that several groups are calling for protests in and around Nouakchott, including those intending to end at the U.S. Embassy, starting today after prayer.  U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the Friday Mosque, the Ibn Abbas Square, and the U.S. Embassy today from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.  Avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution when in the vicinity of any large gatherings, protests, or demonstrations.

Review your personal security plans, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, and monitor local news stations for updates.  Be vigilant and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.

For further information:

  • See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Mauritania Country Specific Information.
  • Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program(STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Contact the U.S. Embassy in Mauritania located between the Presidency building and the Spanish Embassy on Rue Abdallaye. The postal address is B.P. 222, Nouakchott, Mauritania, at + (222) 4525-2660, Monday-Thursday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. – Friday 8 a.m. to 12: 00 a.m. After-hours emergency number for U.S. citizens is + (222) 3662-8163.
  • Call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or 1-202-501-4444 from other countries from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
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