U.S. Warns Citizens Against Travel to Parts of Rwanda Near DR Congo Border
The United States government on Wednesday, May 6, issued a travel advisory urging its citizens to avoid traveling to three districts in western and northern Rwanda due to security concerns linked to the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
In a notice released by the U.S. Department of State, Washington advised American citizens against non-essential travel to the districts of Rubavu District, Musanze District and Rusizi District, particularly within 10 kilometers of Rwanda’s border with the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The advisory cited concerns over “crime and armed violence” in the border regions.
According to the statement, Rwanda has seen growing risks related to criminal activities ranging from petty theft and pickpocketing to more serious crimes such as armed robbery and violent attacks.
The United States also pointed to instability in eastern Congo, especially in the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu, where numerous armed groups, local militias and government forces remain active. Some of these groups, the advisory noted, openly claim to oppose the Government of Rwanda.
Washington warned that cross-border criminal activity could spill into Rwanda “without warning.”
As a result, the three districts were placed under the U.S. government’s Level Four travel category, which is reserved for areas considered to pose high security risks.
The advisory further instructed U.S. government employees in Rwanda to obtain special authorization before traveling to any of the three districts.
The statement also reminded travelers planning to visit Volcanoes National Park or Nyungwe National Park that they must first obtain authorization from the Rwanda Development Board.
American citizens already in Rwanda were advised not to resist in the event of a robbery, to remain particularly vigilant at night, closely monitor their surroundings, and prepare emergency evacuation plans in case the security situation deteriorates.
They were also encouraged to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), which allows U.S. citizens abroad to receive security updates and emergency assistance from American embassies.
Washington additionally recommended that travelers purchase comprehensive travel insurance before visiting Rwanda, including coverage for medical emergencies, emergency evacuation and trip cancellation.
The advisory comes amid growing fears that Congolese government forces could launch new military operations aimed at retaking the cities of Goma and Bukavu.
In recent days, fighting has intensified near the two cities, including clashes this week in the Ruzizi Plain and several parts of Kalehe Territory.
