Sub Saharan Africa

Terrorism

There is a low threat from terrorism.  But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.  For more general information see Terrorism abroad.

Crime

Crime is increasing, particularly in Libreville and Port-Gentil, including incidents of robbery and armed attacks.  You should take sensible personal security precautions and maintain a high level of vigilance in public places.  We recommend that you avoid carrying valuables or wearing jewellery in public.  You should avoid isolated or poorer areas of towns and walking alone at night.  We advise you to be cautious on quiet or isolated beaches in and around Libreville, and to avoid them altogether at night.

Following a number of car-jackings within Libreville we recommend that you keep your car windows closed and car doors locked if you are travelling at night.  Do not stop to pick up strangers.  To avoid the risk of serious injury do not resist car-jackers.  You may find that an immobiliser that operates after the vehicle has been driven a short distance or a tracking device can help with the recovery of your vehicle.

 

For more general information see Victims of crime abroad.

Political Situation

 

Gabon Country Profile

Omar Bongo, Gabon’s President since 1967, died on 8 June 2009. Given that Bongo had been in power for some length of time, there has been uncertainty regarding the political situation in Gabon. You should remain abreast of political developments.

Omar Bongo’s son, Ali Bongo, was inaugurated as the new President of Gabon on 16 October 2009. There was unrest in some areas following the announcement of the election results on 3 September. The economic capital of Port-Gentil was worst affected by the disturbances, having been subject to rioting and looting for a period of three days following the elections. A curfew remains in place in Port Gentil, which restricts movement between midnight and 0600. However, the situation has now stabilised across the country. Transport and other infrastructure is functioning normally.

You should nevertheless avoid demonstrations, rallies and large public gatherings; even peaceful demonstrations have the potential to escalate. We advise UK citizens in Gabon to maintain a low profile, and monitor this travel advice regularly.

Local Travel

Road conditions are poor in most local areas and driving can be hazardous.  During the rainy season from October to mid-December and mid-February to May many roads are passable only with a four-wheel drive vehicle.  You should avoid travelling by road at night.  Police checkpoints are common, where you may be asked to show your passport, driving licence or vehicle registration documents.

 

Air Travel

 
The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the community.  You should check the following link to see whether this will affect your travel - European Commission Transport - Air.

 

British Government employees do not use domestic flights run by Gabonese airline companies unless this is unavoidable.  You should bear this in mind when making your travel plans.

For more general information see Airline security.