Newsgroups: wstd.travel.advisories From: 76702.1202@CompuServe.COM (Wally Doerge) Subject: NEW TRAVEL INFO -- Somalia Organization: The World @ Software Tool & Die Distribution: wstd Date: Wed, 15 Sep 1993 13:27:59 GMT STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Somalia ============================================================ Somalia - Travel Warning September 14, 1993 The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to defer all travel to Somalia at this time. U.S. citizens presently in Somalia, and outside the Mogadishu area, are requested to avoid travel into Mogadishu until further notice. The Department of State has received information that Somali warlord Aideed has ordered his militia to take U.S. citizens hostage, if he is captured. No. 93-036 This replaces the Travel Warning dated June 6, 1993, to advise of the warlord Aideed's threat to U.S. citizens. Somalia - Consular Information Sheet December 24, 1992 Warning: The Department of State warns U.S. citizens not involved in military or relief operations to avoid all travel to Somalia. Civil strife and general lawlessness are significant threats to personal safety and the country is without a functioning government. Contagious diseases pose a serious health threat. Medical treatment facilities are virtually non-existent. A coalition of United Nations forces began deploying in Somalia December 9, 1992. The purpose of this force is to secure airports, ports, roads, storage and distribution sites to permit the effective delivery of humanitarian assistance in Somalia. Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu was evacuated on January 5, 1991. The United States government is unable to offer any type of assistance or protection to American citizens in Somalia. Entry Requirements: No visas are required for entry into Somalia. There is no functioning Somali Embassy in Washington, D.C. Areas of Instability: Almost the total country of Somalia is in a state of anarchy, although some areas in the north have suffered less from famine and banditry. There is no functioning national government, and no U.S. protective service is available. Medical Information: Anyone entering Somalia must receive immunization against cholera, typhoid, and yellow fever, and obtain a doctor's advice regarding any other immunizations that might be necessary. There are virtually no health facilities or medicines available in Somalia. Information on Crime: Looting, banditry, and all forms of violent crime are common in Somalia. Other Information: Electricity, water, food and lodging are unobtainable on a regular basis. Foreigners must bring a supply of bottled water, vitamins, and any personal medications. Lodging is generally located through personal contact with a relief organization or other individuals in Somalia. Registration: U.S. citizens who plan to enter Somalia, despite this warning, can register at U.S. embassies in Kenya, Djibouti or Ethiopia and obtain updated information on current circumstances in Somalia. No. 92-165