Due to escalating armed clashes near Sake in North Kivu, the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa has advised American citizens to relocate to safer areas while airports and borders remain accessible. The embassy has reported internet outages and an increased presence of security checkpoints throughout Goma and near the Rwandan border.
The advisory encourages U.S. citizens in North Kivu to reassess their personal security plans, ensure travel documents are current, and have essential items ready for quick evacuation. "Due to the uncertain security situation in North Kivu, there are no plans for U.S. government-coordinated assistance for U.S. citizens as travel to North Kivu is restricted for U.S. government personnel," stated the embassy.
For those needing emergency assistance, contact information for the Consular Section is provided. The embassy recommends several precautionary actions: reviewing personal security plans, having enough food and water at home, packing essential items, developing a personal emergency action plan independent of U.S. government aid, utilizing commercial transportation options if departing the area, avoiding crowds and demonstrations, staying aware of surroundings, monitoring local media updates, and maintaining a low profile.
Assistance contacts include:
- U.S. Embassy Kinshasa: 310 Avenue des Aviateurs, Kinshasa/Gombe; +243 81-556-0151/0152 or +243-972-616-193 (after hours).
- State Department – Consular Affairs: +1 888-407-4747 or +1 202-501-4444.
Additional resources are available on the embassy's website, including enrollment in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for receiving security updates.