The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that political opposition parties are planning several protests throughout Nouakchott, and possibly other areas, leading up to and during the August 5 constitutional referendum. The government of Mauritania has denied authorization for some of these planned protests, but demonstrations may still occur.
On July 26, violent confrontations occurred between marching protestors and police in Nouakchott, resulting in injuries. On August 1, protesters set fire to a pro-government campaign tent in the vicinity of Carrefour Madrid in Nouakchott.
On August 5, polling stations will be open from 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
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, including polling stations, 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 websitefor 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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