Travel Securely Securely Travel
On Saturday, 06 November 2021, the U.S. Department of State issued a Do Not Travel advisory for Ethiopia. The advisory urges all “U.S. citizens in Ethiopia to depart now using commercially available options.” The advisory continues how the “U.S. Embassy is unlikely to be able to assist U.S. citizens in Ethiopia with departure if commercial options become unavailable.”
On Friday, 05 November 2021, the Department “ordered the departure from Ethiopia of non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members due to armed conflict, civil unrest and possible supply shortages.”
The advisory continues, “Travel to Ethiopia is unsafe due to the ongoing armed conflict. Incidents of civil unrest and ethnic violence are occurring without warning. The situation may escalate further and may cause supply chain shortages, communications blackouts and travel disruptions. The Ethiopian government declared a state of emergency on November 2, 2021.”
Don’t have the cash for a ticket?
The U.S. Embassy is prepared to provide “repatriation loans” to travelers who may not be able to afford to purchase return tickets to the United States. For more information contact U.S. citizen services at the Embassy: [email protected].
Choose to ignore this advisory?
The advisory suggests you have a personal action plan which does NOT require U.S. Embassy or government assistance. Make sure you are enrolled in the Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program - so that the U.S. Embassy knows you are in country - advise them if you depart. In this manner you will be kept up to date as the Embassy issues advisories.
Have your Red Folder up-to-date.
The Department does not mince words: “Draft a will, and designate appropriate insurance beneficiaries and/or power of attorney. Discuss a plan with loved ones regarding care/custody of children, pets, property, belongings, non-liquid assets (collections, artwork, etc.), funeral wishes, etc.”
You may acquire Red Folder via Amazon.
