Madagascar Travel Warning

Issued by US Department of State

Mar 04, 2002

This Travel Warning is being issued in light of the deteriorating security situation in Madagascar and the Department's authorization of the departure of family members of Embassy staff and non-emergency Embassy personnel. There have been isolated incidents of violence and the potential for more violence remains. Commercial transportation to and from Madagascar is subject to interruption without warning. Fuel supplies are depleted, and sporadic roadblocks may delay travel. On February 28, the government of Madagascar declared martial law in Antananarivo Province, which includes the capital. This Travel Warning supersedes the Public Announcement issued February 27, 2002.

The Department of State warns Americans to defer travel to Madagascar. On March 1, 2002, the Department authorized the departure of family members of Embassy staff and non-emergency Embassy personnel. Americans currently in Madagascar should carefully evaluate their security situation in determining whether to remain in the country.

The complex and difficult political situation in Madagascar following the December 16, 2001 presidential election continues to evolve. There have been large demonstrations, with occasional violence. The government of Madagascar declared a national state of emergency and on February 28, declared martial law in Antananarivo Province.

Supporters of the two leading presidential candidates have established roadblocks on most major routes into Antananarivo and in many locations throughout the city. The primary roads from the country's two principal seaports to the capital have been blocked to all vehicular traffic for three weeks, causing shortages of fuel and other goods in Antananarivo. Localized curfews for some towns have been reported. Travel around the countryside can be difficult, and international flight service has been disrupted. Airlines servicing the country are adjusting their flight schedules in response to changing circumstances.

There have been no reports of injuries to U.S. citizens, and demonstrations have not been aimed at foreigners. Nonetheless, Americans should avoid the downtown area of Antananarivo and limit their movement within the city.

The Department of State urges U.S. citizens who decide to travel to or remain in Madagascar to monitor media reports for current information. Safety and security information may be obtained by contacting the U.S. Embassy in Antananarivo on tel. 261-20-22-212-57.

For further information concerning travel to Madagascar, travelers should consult the Department of State Internet web site at http://travel.state.gov, which includes the latest Consular Information Sheet for Madagascar.