Due to renewed fighting and the uncertain political and security situation, the Department ordered the departure of personnel in non-emergency positions, as well as family members of Embassy personnel on August 4, 1998. For further information, consult the Department of State's latest Consular Information Sheet for the Democratic Republic of Congo. This replaces the Travel Warning dated August 4 to note the suspension of Embassy operations and the departure of all Embassy personnel from the country. However, the authorized departure of non-essential U.S. Embassy personnel and dependents from the Democratic Republic of Congo is cancelled. There continue to be reports of unofficial armed groups operating in parts of the country, as well as pillaging, vehicle thefts, carjackings, extrajudicial settling of differences, ethnic tensions, and continued military operations.
Travelers run the risk of attack or detention.
Although U.S. citizens are not being targeted, a high level of security awareness should be maintained. Travelers should avoid any area where demonstrations are occurring. Traditional police protection is improving but still limited as the primary security personnel are the Democratic Republic of Congo military forces. The international airport at Kinshasa is operating. Ferry services to Brazzaville have recently been reestablished but remain sporadic.