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Ethiopia
- The risk environment varies across Ethiopia significantly due to civil unrest, armed conflict, and political tensions., Addis Ababa is relatively unaffected by ongoing conflicts and is considered safer than other cities. Many other regions, such as Tigray, Amhara, Oromia, and all international border areas should be avoided.
- Crime, including petty theft and armed robberies, is common in urban areas like Addis Ababa. Certain regions, such as the Western Wellega Zone, present a higher risk of kidnapping and armed attacks due to the presence of militant groups and non-state actors.
- Road safety is poor, and transportation across the country is challenging due to road conditions, security checkpoints, and risks of natural disasters like flooding and landslides.
- The country is also vulnerable to natural disasters, including earthquakes, volcanic activity, and seasonal floods.
Risk Factors
- Ethiopia has experienced internal conflicts in recent years, particularly in the regions of Tigray, Amhara, Oromia, and Benishangul-Gumuz. Conflict zones are highly volatile, and travelers should avoid traveling to these regions.
- Movement restrictions and communication blackouts are common, particularly in regions experiencing conflict. Travelers should monitor developments closely and have contingency plans for evacuations in case of a rapid deterioration of the security environment.
- Petty theft and pickpocketing are common in Addis Ababa, especially in busy areas like Bole International Airport, Mercato Market, and Piazza. Keep valuables secure and avoid walking alone at night.
- Violent muggings, including knifepoint robberies, have been reported in areas like Bole Medhanealem, Yeka Hills, and Entoto. Travelers should avoid walking after dark and use only registered taxis.
- Kidnapping is a serious risk in the Oromia and Somali regions, particularly near the borders with Somalia, Kenya, and South Sudan. Foreigners working in journalism, aid work, or business are at higher risk and should avoid traveling to these regions.
- In Addis Ababa, criminals often use a tactic where a pedestrian or driver signals a fake issue with your car to prompt you to stop, allowing an accomplice to steal valuables while distracted; to avoid this, keep windows up and doors locked at all times and remain suspicious of strangers’ motives.
- Female travelers in Ethiopia face heightened risk related to sexual harassment and assault in both rural and urban areas. Avoid traveling alone, especially in unfamiliar or isolated areas.
- Protests and demonstrations can turn violent quickly, though the security forces usually prevent widespread unrest.
- Violent protests are less likely in Addis Ababa due to a higher security presence. Be cautious in areas such as Meskel Square and avoid crowds due to incidental risks posed by violent protests.
- Road travel is particularly hazardous due to poor infrastructure, unpaved roads, and a lack of safety standards. Long-distance bus travel should be avoided, as accidents are common. The risk is heightened during the rainy season (June to September) when landslides and floods make many roads impassable.
- Public transportation in Ethiopia, including buses, minibusses, and informal taxis, is unsafe and unreliable and should be avoided.
- Opt for established taxi services or ride-hailing apps available in major cities like Addis Ababa, such as RIDE and ZayRide, which provide verified drivers and GPS tracking. Many reputable hotels offer private car services or can arrange trusted transportation for guests. These options are often more secure and reliable. Avoid hailing taxis on the street and ensure any vehicles used for long-distance travel are in good condition. Checkpoints are frequent, and travelers should comply with all security procedures.
- In rural areas, particularly those affected by conflict, roads may be blocked or closed without notice. Road conditions outside major cities can be very poor, with limited access to emergency services.
- Ethiopia is prone to natural disasters such as floods, particularly during the rainy season (June to September), which can lead to landslides and infrastructure damage. The risk is most acute near the Awash River and in the lower areas of the Baro-Akobo and Wabe-Shebelle river basins.
- Ethiopia lies along the East African Rift Valley, an active tectonic zone that exposes the country to earthquake risk, particularly in the Rift Valley areas. Although most earthquakes are moderate, occasional larger quakes occur, posing risks to infrastructure and lives in affected regions. Flash floods and road blockages are common, especially in highland areas and regions near large rivers. Travelers should avoid traveling during periods of heavy rainfall and follow official advice.
- Tigray, Amhara, and Oromia present significantly elevated security risks due to ongoing conflicts and armed militia activities. The Benishangul-Gumuz and Somali regions are also at high risk due to ethnic violence, cross-border conflict, and kidnappings. Avoid all non-essential travel to these areas.
- Border areas with Sudan, Eritrea, and Somalia are particularly dangerous. The threat of terrorism and armed attacks is high, with recent reports of Al-Shabaab militants operating near the Somali border.