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 information see Terrorism Abroad.

 

Crime

 

With the weakening of government authority and rising unemployment, muggings and robberies are occurring with increasing frequency, not only in urban areas but in nature reserves and on beaches. During the current political crisis, there have been a number of instances of large-scale looting of shops and stores. The potential for further similar instances remain. You should keep clear of any street disturbances and not leave your bags unattended. You should keep large amounts of money, jewellery, cameras and cell phones out of sight when walking in town centres. Avoid walking in city centres after dark.  

 

You should also take sensible precautions in crowded areas such as street markets and airports, where pick-pocketing is common.

 

Safeguard valuables, important documents and cash. Deposit them in hotel safes, where practicable.  Keep copies of important documents, including passports, in a separate place to the documents themselves.

 
Vehicle theft and theft from cars has become more frequent during recent months.

For more information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

Madagascar Country Profile

There has been political unrest in Madagascar since January 2009, which has resulted in a number of violent incidents and lootings in Antananarivo and regional centres, resulting in a number of deaths.  President Ravalomanana resigned on 17 March 2009 and the former Mayor of Antananarivo, Andry Rajoelina, was installed as head of a transitional government, the “High Transitional Authority” (HAT), on Saturday 21 March.  On 29 April 2009 the Prime Minister appointed by Ravalomanana was arrested by the Head of the Commission Nationale Mixte d’Enquete, a military/police group established by the HAT.  On 9 August 2009 the key political Malagasy parties signed an agreement to form an inclusive transitional government by mid-September and to hold elections within 15 months.  This agreement broke down at the end of August and the "HAT" unilaterally announced a new government, leading to renewed unrest. The political situation remains fluid and subject to unexpected change.

 
Local Travel

We advise against travel to the centre of Antananarivo unless absolutely necessary as the situation remains volatile and unpredictable. Visitors should avoid any political rallies or large public gatherings, particularly around the Ambohijatovo, Lac Anosy, Ankorondrano and the Mahamasima areas. 

Any movements around the city should be made with great care.  Avoid receiving or touching any parcels which may appear suspect.  Security in the city is deteriorating, with muggings, pick pocketing and burglary usually involving armed bandits.

There have been two parcel bomb explosions in Antananarivo during the past month and a number of unexploded devices have been discovered by the authorities.

Avoid travelling outside urban areas at night as there are occasional armed robberies on the main highways.

 

There have been incidences of armed robbery in some National Parks.  If you intend to visit a National Park, seek advice from a tour operator or from the park administration in advance.

 

If you plan to travel outside Antananarivo, you should re-confirm bookings before leaving the capital.

 

Road Travel

 

You should avoid driving outside urban areas after dark, as there have been armed robberies at night on some of the major roads.

 

Road conditions vary greatly.  In the rainy season (December to April), most secondary roads are impassable (except for four wheel drive vehicles) and bridges are frequently washed away.  Operation of river ferries may be irregular.  Check with the local authorities before setting off to find out whether your chosen route is passable.

 

Most of the major roads out of Antananarivo carry heavy freight traffic and have a number of steep gradients and sharp bends.  Drive with extreme caution.

 

Malagasy regulations specify that foreigners driving in Madagascar require an international driving licence.

 

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

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.

For more general information see Airline Security.