Travel Warning: Sierra Leone

August 4, 2000

The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to Sierra Leone. Although the security situation in Freetown has improved somewhat, travel outside the capital is still very dangerous due to rebel military groups that have not been disarmed or demobilized. The Department of State has terminated the ordered departure status of U.S. Government personnel in non-emergency positions. However, because of the security situation, family members are prohibited from accompanying U.S. Government employees assigned to Sierra Leone.

The U.S. Embassy in Freetown currently operates with a reduced staff. Only emergency consular services to U.S. citizens are available, and the Embassy’s ability to provide these services is limited. U.S. citizens in Sierra Leone should review their own personal security situations in determining whether to remain in the country