Category: New Zealand Government

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Do not travel to Burkina Faso due to the volatile security situation and the high threat of kidnapping, terrorism and armed banditry (level 4 of 4). 

Burkina Faso

Terrorism
There is a high threat of terrorism in Burkina Faso, particularly in border areas with Mali and Niger. States of emergencies remain in place in several border regions. In 2018, terrorist groups released a statement declaring their intention to target westerners and western companies in the Sahel. There have been multiple attacks in the capital and elsewhere in the country since 2016, including:

• On 11 June 2022, over 100 people were killed in an attack in Seytenga, Seno Province.
• On 4 and 5 June 2021, over 160 people were killed in attack on Solhan village, in the northeast.
• On 26 April 2021, 3 foreign nationals were killed in an ambush on the PK 60 road between Fada-N’Gourma and Pama.
• On 1 December 2019, at least 14 people were killed in a shooting attack inside a church in Hantoukoura.
• On 5 November 2019, 37 people were killed and a further 60 injured in an attack on a convoy carrying workers to a Canadian gold mine near Boungou.
• On March 2, 2018, extremists attacked the French Embassy and Burkina Faso’s military headquarters in downtown Ouagadougou. Eight security force personnel, including soldiers and police officers were killed and over 80 others were injured.
• On 13 August 2017, gunmen attacked the Aziz Istanbul restaurant in Ouagadougou, killing at least 18 people.
• On 15 January 2016, armed gunmen attacked the Splendid Hotel and Café Cappuccino in Ouagadougou resulted in 30 deaths, a large number of whom were foreign nationals.

Terrorist attacks could occur at anytime, anywhere in Burkina Faso and may be directed at locations with foreign interests or known to be frequented by foreigners, such as embassies, hotels, bars, restaurants, markets, airports, shopping areas, tourist sites, public transport facilities, mining operations and places of worship.

New Zealanders throughout Burkina Faso are advised to maintain a high degree of security awareness at all times, particularly in public areas. Avoid all large gatherings, including music festivals, concerts, sporting events and any public demonstrations or protests. Keep yourself informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local sources of information and follow the instructions of local authorities at all times.

Kidnapping
There is a heightened threat of kidnapping in Burkina Faso. Terrorist groups such as Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) have stated their intention to kidnap foreigners and may cross the borders from Mali and Niger to carry out kidnappings.

A number of foreigners have previously been kidnapped in Burkina Faso and the wider Sahel region. In April 2022, a Polish national was kidnapped in north-eastern Burkina Faso and in September 2022, a US national was kidnapped in Yalgo, also in north-eastern Burkina Faso. The threat is likely to continue.

New Zealanders in Burkina Faso are strongly advised to seek professional security advice or protection before travelling to areas of particular risk.

Political Situation/Civil Unrest
The security situation has deteriorated significantly in recent years. The political situation continues to evolve following the military coup on 30 September 2022. 

Demonstrations occur regularly and have taken place in major cities. They have the potential to result in violence or clashes, gunfire has been reported in Ougadougou. Expect an increased security presence country-wide and comply with any instructions issued by the local authorities, including any curfews or restrictions of movement. Continued disruptions to internet and other telecommunication services are possible.

New Zealanders in Burkina Faso are advised to avoid all protests, demonstrations and large gatherings. 

Banditry
Banditry is a security concern in Burkina Faso. There continue to be reports of attacks by armed criminals on vehicles, including buses, travelling on a variety of main and secondary roads across the country. Criminals have used road blocks to stop and rob travellers and have been known to open fire on vehicles that refuse to stop. While bandits mainly steal valuables, they may physically harm victims during the course of a robbery.

The highest number of incidents occur in the eastern region but there have been a number of attacks in other regions and the threat exists throughout Burkina Faso. Remote and border regions are especially vulnerable.

New Zealanders in Burkina Faso are advised to travel in convoy if possible, stay on clearly marked roads and avoid travel by night outside major centres. You should seek local advice before setting out and follow a police patrol where possible.

Crime
Street crime is prevalent in Burkina Faso and foreigners may be specifically targeted due to their perceived wealth. Bag-snatchings, muggings and theft from hotel rooms are common, particularly in Ouagadougou. The central market and the area around the United Nations circle are often targeted by thieves. Theft is often perpetrated by one or two people on motorbikes.

Criminals in urban areas may carry knives in order to cut straps on bags and can become violent if the victim is non-compliant. Sexual assault occurs periodically in smaller towns and within Ouagadougou.

New Zealanders are advised to exercise particular vigilance in crowded or public areas, avoid showing signs of affluence and keep personal belongings secure at all times.

When driving you should keep doors locked, windows up and keep any valuables out of sight. Avoid travelling alone at night, as risks increase after dark.

Scams
Commercial and internet fraud is a common problem in Burkino Faso. New Zealanders in Burkina Faso should be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true, as they may be a scam. For further information see our advice on Internet Fraud and International Scams and Internet dating scams.

General Travel Advice
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Burkina Faso, the ability of the government to provide consular assistance to New Zealand citizens is extremely limited.

We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Burkina Faso should consider.

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Burkina Faso to avoid offending local sensitivities.

Modern medical services in Burkina Faso are very limited, New Zealanders travelling or living in Burkina Faso should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. 

New Zealanders in Burkina Faso are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

 

Travel tips

See our regional advice for Africa

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Do not travel to Somalia, including Somaliland (level 4 of 4). New Zealanders currently in Somalia are advised to leave. There is a significant threat from terrorism, kidnapping, armed conflict and a high level of violent crime throughout the country.

New Zealanders who decide to travel to Somalia against our advice should ensure that appropriate personal security protection measures are in place at all times. We strongly recommend you consult a reputable security company with experience in Somalia for advice on security arrangements. Security arrangements should be reviewed on a regular basis. Such measures may mitigate the risks to your safety but cannot eliminate them entirely. No part of Somalia can be considered safe. This includes large cities such as Mogadishu and Kismayo.

Somalia

Terrorism
There is an extreme threat from terrorism throughout Somalia. Terrorist attacks could occur without warning at anytime, anywhere in Somalia and often involve car bombs, multiple explosions and heavily armed gunmen.

The threat is particularly high in the capital Mogadishu, where terrorist group Al Shabaab continues to conduct attacks on a regular basis. Previous attacks have specifically targeted foreigners and personnel from international organisations.

• On 29 October 2022, two large bombs were used to attack the Somali Ministry of Education. Reporting indicates that over 100 were killed and 300 injured in the attack.
• On 23 October 2022, an attack on the Tawakal Hotel in Kismayo reportedly killed 13 people and injured 47.
• On 29 August 2022, an attack at the Hayat Hotel in central Mogadishu left a reported 21 killed and 117 injured.
• On 22 April 2022, a bomb attack at the Pescatore Seafood restaurant in south Mogadishu reportedly killed 8 and injured 27.
• On 19 February 2022, a bomb attack inside Hassan Dhiif restaurant in Beledweyne city reportedly killed 18 and injured 30.
• On 16 August 2020, an attack on the Elite Hotel in central Mogadishu, which is popular with foreigners, reportedly killed 15 and injured at least 15.
• On 14 October 2017, a large truck bomb exploded in central Mogadishu, killing 358 people and injuring 228.

Other attacks have targeted government buildings, hotels, restaurants, shopping areas, public transport, places of worship and airports. The Mogadishu international airport is a high-priority target for terrorists due to the presence of Westerners. Further attacks are likely and may target crowded places, high-profile events and events involving government officials. Days of national or religious significance may see more attacks than usual.

New Zealanders in Somalia should monitor local information sources for information on new safety and security risks as the security situation can change very quickly.

Kidnapping
There is an ongoing, very high threat of kidnapping throughout Somalia, including in Puntland and Somaliland. Kidnappers may be motivated by financial gain or terrorism. The threat to foreigners is high and a number of foreign nationals have been kidnapped in Somalia in recent years, and some have been killed.

In addition to taking professional security advice, you should vary your routines to avoid setting predictable patterns of movement, particularly around travel routes.

Violent Crime
Levels of violent crime, including murder, armed robbery and banditry are very high in Somalia and there is no effective police force in place to enforce the rule of law. Anti-western attitudes are strong in parts of Somalia, there have been incidents of foreigners being violently harassed. 

Some schools and facilities acting as “cultural rehabilitation” centres operate throughout Somalia without oversight. There are reports that minors and young adults may be abused or held against their will at these facilities.

Civil Unrest and political tensions
The political situation in Somalia is unpredictable, particularly in Mogadishu. 

There is ongoing, serious violence between opposing factions throughout the country. Fighting often involves heavy weapons.

Demonstrations do occur and there have been clashes between security forces and demonstrators. New Zealanders are advised to avoid all demonstrations, protests and large public gatherings in Somalia. If you are in an area affected by demonstrations or violence, you should leave the area if it is safe to do so, or find a safe location, remain indoors and heed any local advice.

Piracy
Piracy against all forms of maritime traffic is a significant issue in the coastal waters off Somalia, including at some distance from the coast. Mariners are advised to exercise a heightened degree of vigilance and take appropriate precautionary measures in Somali waters. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy report. 

General Travel Advice
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Somalia, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens who require consular assistance is severely limited.  

We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Somalia should consider.

Thousands of people have been displaced due to both conflict and environmental problems (such as droughts and flooding). This has led to an increase in health issues and crime, and a heightened security threat to foreigners. Many areas of Somalia suffer from food shortages.

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Somalia to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour. Same-sex relations are illegal.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Somalia should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air. You should check that your travel insurance policy covers travel in Somalia – exclusions may well apply. Only very limited medical facilities are available in Somalia and there are shortages of even the most basic medical supplies.

New Zealanders who decide to travel or live in Somalia against our advice are strongly advised to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

See our regional advice for Africa

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Exercise increased caution in the United States due to the threat of terrorism (level 2 of 4).

United States of America

Terrorism
The United States Department of Homeland Security regularly issues terrorism-related advice and updates. For current alerts, see the US National Terror Advisory System webpage.

The United States remains a target of terrorist interest, both from international terror groups and from domestic-based individual’s adhering to various forms of violent extremist ideologies. Credible information assessed by US authorities indicates that individuals or groups have developed both the intent and capability to conduct terrorist attacks in the US. Attacks could be indiscriminate, targeting law enforcement officials, government buildings and areas frequented by foreigners including transport hubs and major events.

New Zealanders in the United States are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. Follow any instructions issued by the local authorities and be aware of your surroundings in public places such as shopping malls, markets, monuments, places of worship, tourist destinations, demonstrations, large gatherings and on public transport.

In the event of an attack, leave the area as soon as it is safe to do so. Avoid the area in case of secondary attacks.

Crime
Petty crime such as theft and pickpocketing can occur, particularly in urban centres, tourist locations and on public transport. New Zealanders should stay alert to their surroundings, stay vigilant on public transport and avoid leaving belongings unattended, including in rental vehicles.

There is a higher incidence of violent crime and firearm possession than in New Zealand. In many states, it is legal for United States citizens to openly carry firearms in public. Violent crime has targeted individuals and groups from the LGBTQIA+ community and those with diverse ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds. However, crime rates vary considerably across cities and suburbs and while tourists are rarely targeted, there is always a risk of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. New Zealanders should take care when travelling in unfamiliar areas including on public transport. Research your destination before travelling and seek local advice if you are concerned about levels of criminal activity.

Active shooter incidents occur in the United States. For advice on how to respond to an active shooter situation, please see the US Department of Homeland Security website.

You should exercise caution if crossing the border by car into Mexico from Arizona, California, New Mexico and Texas. There have been increased incidents of crime associated with drug trading and some foreign nationals have been targeted indiscriminately.

Be aware of rental and financial scams via websites and social media. Credit card and ATM fraud including debit card cloning is also a risk to travellers.

Civil Unrest and Political Tension
Protests and demonstrations regularly occur. We advise New Zealanders to follow any advice issued by the local authorities, monitor local media for developments and avoid all demonstrations, protests and rallies as even those intended as peaceful have the potential to result in violence.

Natural Disasters
The US can experience severe weather events, such as hurricanes, especially in May or June to November regularly impacting the eastern seaboard, Gulf Coast, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands.

Tornados are most frequent and at their highest intensities across the Central Plains and parts of the Midwest. While tornadoes can form at any time of year, conditions are most favourable in the spring and summer months (March to September). 

Severe snowstorms during winter can cause disruptions to critical infrastructure, including power cuts. Winter storms may also lead to widespread flight delays and cancellations.

Many parts of the US are also prone to earthquakes including Alaska, California, Guam, Hawaii, Nevada, Northern Mariana Islands, Oklahoma, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington state and the US Virgin Islands.

Contact your travel operator or airline for the latest departure information, and monitor local weather forecasts.  If there is a severe weather event, or natural disaster, follow the advice of the local authorities and keep your family and friends back in New Zealand informed of your safety and well-being.

General Travel Advice
The Transport Security Administration website provides guidance for airline passengers travelling to the United States.

Travellers carrying electronic devices, such as laptops and mobile phones, should be aware that these devices may be subject to security checks by United States border authorities.

Immigration regulations are strictly enforced. Overstaying can result in detention then deportation. See our United States travel tips.

New Zealanders travelling or resident in the United States should have comprehensive travel and medical insurance policies in place. Medical costs in the United States are extremely high and the New Zealand government cannot assist with medical expenses. 

New Zealanders in the United States are encouraged to register their travel with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

 

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Washington DC, United States of America

Street Address 37 Observatory Circle NW, Washington, DC 20008, United States of America Telephone +1 202 328 4800 Fax +1 202 667 5227 Email WSHinfo@mfat.govt.nz Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/americas/united-states-of-america/new-zealand-embassy-to-the-united-states-of-america/ Hours Mon – Fri 0830 – 1700 hrs

The New Zealand Consulate-General Los Angeles, United States of America

Street Address Suite 600E, 2425 Olympic Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90404, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 Fax +1 310 566 6556 Email nzcg.la@mfat.net Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/americas/united-states-of-america/new-zealand-consulate-general-los-angeles/ Hours Mon – Fri 0830 – 1300, 1330 – 1630 hrs

New Zealand Consulate-General Honolulu, United States of America

Street Address 733 Bishop Street, 2020, Honolulu, HI 96813 Telephone +1 808 675 5555 Fax +1 808 675 5561 Email HLUEnquiries@mfat.govt.nz

New Zealand Consulate-General New York, United States of America

Street Address 41st Floor, 295 Madison Ave, New York, 10017, United States of America Telephone +1 212 832 4038 Fax +1 212 832 7602 Hours Mon – Fri 0900 – 1230 hrs for consular calls

New Zealand Consulate Atlanta, United States of America

Street Address 47 Hawk Road, Newnan, Georgia 30263, United States of America Telephone +1 202 328 4800 Email newzealand@mindspring.com

New Zealand Consulate Boston, United States of America

Telephone +1 202 328 4800 Email nzconsulboston@gmail.com

New Zealand Consulate Chicago, United States of America

Street Address 1223 Oakwood Lane, Glenview, IL 60025 Postal Address 1223 Oakwood Lane, 6400 Shafer Ct 60025, Glenview, IL Telephone +1 202 328 4800 Email nzconsulatechicago@gmail.com

New Zealand Consulate Houston, United States of America

Street Address 4424 W. Sam Houston Pkwy North, Suite 100, Houston, TX 77041, United States of America Telephone +1 202 328 4800 Email connelly@nzhonoraryconsul.org

New Zealand Consulate Oregon, United States of America

Street Address 430 SW 13th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97205, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 Email cjs@theswindells.org

New Zealand Consulate Sacramento, United States of America

Street Address 44733 North El Macero Drive, El Macero, CA 95618 – 1066, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 Email starrned@msn.com

New Zealand Consulate Salt Lake City, United States of America

Street Address 1655 Linden Lane, Bountiful, UT 84010, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 Email Iain.mckay1@hotmail.com

New Zealand Consulate San Francisco (Northern California), United States of America

Postal Address PO Box 1276, Burlingame, CA 94010, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 Email NewZealandHCSF@gmail.com

New Zealand Consulate Seattle, United States of America

Street Address 4010 Lake Washington Blvd NE, Suite 300, Kirkland WA 98033, United States of America Telephone +1 310 566 6555 Email NZHonConSeattleWA@outlook.com

See our regional advice for North America

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Avoid non-essential travel to the following areas due to violent crime (level 3 of 4):

• within 5km of the Mexican border from the Pacific Coast up to and including the Gracias a Dios crossing

• to the towns of Santa Ana Huista, San Antonio Huista and La Democracia in the department of Huehuetenangodue.

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Guatemala due to violent crime and civil unrest (level 2 of 4).

Guatemala

Violent Crime
Guatemala has a high violent crime rate. Criminal acts often involve firearms and may include armed robbery, kidnapping, sexual assault and murder. The majority of this crime is drug and gang-related, however, violence can be indiscriminate and occur in areas frequented by tourists.

New Zealanders in Guatemala should remain security conscious and exercise a high degree of caution at all times. This includes in Guatemala City and other major cities, public areas and tourist destinations including Tikal, Petén, Antigua, Volcán de Pacaya and Lake Atitlán.

Sexual assault remains a risk. There have been incidents of drink spiking in tourist areas such as Antigua. We advise New Zealanders to exercise a high degree of caution and avoid travelling alone, especially at night.

Pickpockets and bag snatchers are prevalent in major cities and tourist sites, especially in central markets. We advise New Zealanders to take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings.

“Express kidnappings” have also been reported in Guatemala, where criminals abduct a victim for a short amount of time and force them to withdraw funds from their bank account. To reduce the risk of this occurring we recommend you use ATMs that are located within bank branches and during daylight hours only. We also recommend you avoid displaying or wearing items that appear valuable, such as mobile devices and jewellery. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of crime as this could lead to an escalation in violence. Victims have been killed and injured attempting to resist perpetrators.

When travelling to remote areas, including to volcanoes, it may be safer to travel with others or a reputable tour company. The Guatemalan Government PROATUR service offers tourist advice and security escorts for travel around the country.

Road Travel
Inter-city travel can be dangerous, particularly after dark. There have been reports of armed robbery and bus/carjackings affecting tourists on a number of travel routes, including along main highways and the road to and from the international airport in Guatemala City. Armed criminals have been known to set up roadblocks and pose as police officers. If travelling by road, you should keep doors locked, valuables out of sight and windows up at all times. Wherever possible travel in a convoy and avoid all travel after dark.

Travel on local public buses (“chicken buses”) should be avoided for safety and security reasons as they are usually overloaded and there have been armed attacks by gangs and incidents of crime against foreigners on buses. Radio-dispatched or hotel taxis are the safest option as there have been robberies and assaults associated with unofficial taxis. Prepaid vouchers can also be purchased from the INGUAT (tourist office) in the arrivals terminal.

Borders
Special care should also be taken in border areas with Belize, Mexico, Honduras and El Salvador and at border crossings due to organised crime and drug-related violence. Allow enough time for border formalities so that you can arrive at your destination before dark.

Seismic Activity
Guatemala lies in a seismically active zone with four active volcanoes, and the possibility of an eruption always exists. Previously volcanic activity has forced evacuation of nearby visitors. Tremors are common, so familiarise yourself with earthquake safety measures. Travellers should be aware of the possibility for travel disruptions in the event of seismic or volcanic activity. Monitor levels of volcanic activity through the local media, and follow any alerts or instructions from local authorities.

Civil Unrest
Protests and demonstrations, including strike action and roadblocks, occur across Guatemala and have the potential to turn violent with little notice. They can cause disruptions to traffic and essential services. We recommend you avoid large gatherings, monitor the local media for updated security information and follow any instructions issued by local authorities, including curfews. Participation in demonstrations by foreigners is illegal and may result in detention and expulsion from the country.

General Travel Advice
Carry a photocopy or certified true copy of your passport as a form of personal identification when travelling.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

Do not take photographs of children without permission. Many people in Guatemala fear that children are being kidnapped for adoption or for theft of vital organs, and foreigners have been caught up in violent incidents related to accusations and fears of child kidnapping. Photography of government buildings, airports and military establishments is prohibited, and could result in detention. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.

Medical facilities are limited outside Guatemala City. New Zealanders in Guatemala should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provisions for adventure activities and medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in Guatemala are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

 

Travel tips

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The New Zealand Embassy Mexico City, Mexico is accredited to Guatemala

Street Address Jaime Balmes No 8, 4th Floor, Los Morales, Polanco, Mexico D.F. 11510 Telephone +52 55 5283 9460 Fax +52 55 5283 9480 Email nzmexico@mfat.govt.nz Web Site http://www.mfat.govt.nz/mexico Hours Mon – Fri 0930 – 1400

New Zealand Honorary Consulate Guatemala City, Guatemala

Street Address 13 Calle 7-71, Zona 10, Guatemala City 01010, Guatemala Telephone (+502) 2360-8276 Alternate Telephone (+502) 2360-4961 Fax +502 2431 3742 Email kiwiguatemala@gmail.com

See our regional advice for Central/South America

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Do not travel to South Sudan due to ongoing armed conflict, inter-ethnic violence and violent crime (level 4 of 4).

New Zealanders currently in South Sudan are advised to depart as soon as it is safe to do so.

South Sudan

Armed Conflict/Civil Unrest
Pockets of armed conflict between government and various opposition forces remain and the security situation in Juba has the potential to deteriorate with little or no warning. Land routes into and out of South Sudan may be blocked and flights may be cancelled at short notice. The political and security situation throughout South Sudan remains volatile.

Inter-ethnic violence and cattle raiding continues to occur throughout the country, with significant loss of life. There is a complete absence of rule of law outside of the capital Juba and even in Juba, the capacity of the authorities to uphold law and order is very limited.

Areas within 40 kilometres of South Sudan’s northern border with Sudan are also particularly dangerous and vulnerable to armed incursions and violence.  Parts of the border remain disputed and military forces are deployed in these areas.

The border areas with South Sudan’s other neighbouring countries, including Ethiopia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, the Central African Republic, and Uganda are extremely dangerous due to armed conflict, military activity and other violence. There are regular reports of attacks by armed groups on vehicles travelling on the main road connecting Juba to Uganda (Jiba-Niomule road).

We recommend you avoid all protests, demonstrations and large public gatherings in South Sudan as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning. Monitor local and international media, review personal security plans and be aware of your surroundings.

Violent Crime
Violent crime, including kidnapping, murder, armed robbery, home invasions, car-jacking, and sexual assault is a significant problem throughout South Sudan, both in urban and rural areas. The economic situation has led to a significant increase in both petty and violent crime. Criminals are often armed as weapons are readily accessible.

The government has limited capacity to deter crime and maintain law and order throughout South Sudan. Banditry and lawlessness is an issue in rural areas. Humanitarian workers have been the targets of killings and violence in the past.

New Zealanders in South Sudan should exercise a very high degree of personal security awareness at all times. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of an armed robbery or carjacking as this could lead to an escalation in violence. For security reasons we recommend against travelling alone, at night, or to isolated areas.

Petty crime, such as bag snatching and pickpocketing, also occurs and is often accompanied by violence. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. 

Road Travel
We strongly advise against using public transport due to safety concerns.

If travelling by road, car doors should be locked and windows up.

Official checkpoints are frequently set up by security forces and have been known to become hostile or violent. Individuals staffing checkpoints have been known to solicit bribes. Criminals who pose as police officers have also set up roadblocks. At checkpoints, remain in your vehicle and produce requested documents through a raised window. We recommend carrying colour photocopies of your passport and identity documents and producing these when requested, not the originals.

Landmines
There is a risk from landmines, which are reportedly present throughout South Sudan, including in Juba. We advise you not to stray off well-used public roads and paths.

General Travel Advice
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in South Sudan, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens is severely limited. We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to South Sudan should consider.

We advise New Zealanders in South Sudan to be vigilant and take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety, including by seeking professional security advice. You should have a contingency plan in place for departure, monitor developments closely through the media and other local information sources. As a precautionary measure, we recommend ensuring adequate supplies of food, water, fuel, cash and essential medications are always on hand and travel documents are kept up to date.

New Zealanders travelling or living in South Sudan should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.  You should check that your travel insurance policy covers travel to South Sudan – exclusions may well apply. Only very limited medical facilities are available in South Sudan. 

The rainy season typically runs from April to November, during which flooding often occurs. Flooding impacts transport and communications infrastructure, as well as lead to shortages of drinking water and food. Severe flooding has led to displacement, property damage and loss of life.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include the death penalty.

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious, social and cultural traditions in South Sudan to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion is recommended for both dress and behaviour.

Photography, including from a mobile phone, without a permit from the Ministry of Information in South Sudan is illegal. Taking photographs without a permit will immediately attract suspicion, and could lead to detention. Even with a permit, it is illegal to take photos of airfields, military installations or personal, government buildings and infrastructure.

New Zealanders who decide to live or travel in South Sudan against our advice are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

 

Travel tips

See our regional advice for Africa

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel