The Embassy of the United States of America expresses its sincere condolences to the families and communities affected by the deadly traffic accident on January 29, 2023. We recognize the valiant efforts of first responders, medical personnel and all those who helped the victims of this tragedy. We grieve together during this sad occasion.
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 February, 2023 | Topics: Alert, News
Benin- Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution C K T O Reissued with updates to security information and an expansion of locations to avoid travel. Exercise increased caution in Benin due to crime, kidnapping, terrorism, and maritime crime. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel to: The northern regions of Benin, including: The …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 29 November, 2022 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin, countrywide Event: The U.S. Embassy in Cotonou has modified its restricted travel areas to include Kandi and Tanguieta. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from conducting personal travel in these areas and must obtain special authorization for official travel because of the high risk of terrorism and criminal activity. The complete list of restricted travel …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 17 November, 2022 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin, countrywide Event: The U.S. Embassy in Cotonou has modified its restricted travel areas to include Kandi and Tanguieta. U.S. government personnel are prohibited from conducting personal travel in these areas and must obtain special authorization for official travel because of the high risk of terrorism and criminal activity. The complete list of restricted travel areas …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 16 November, 2022 | Topics: Alert
Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (September 23, 2022) Location: Benin, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Cote D’Ivoire, Senegal, Togo Event: The West African and Madagascar Aviation Safety Agency (ASECNA) announced that air traffic controllers in the region have called for strikes in multiple countries in their 18 member region to begin on Friday, September …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 23 September, 2022 | Topics: Alert, U.S. Citizen Services
On July 31, 2022, the United States conducted a precision counterterrorism strike in Afghanistan that killed Ayman al-Zawahiri, Osama bin Laden’s deputy and successor as leader of al-Qa’ida. Al- Zawahiri was one of the masterminds of the attacks against the United States on September 11, 2001, and had continued to urge his followers to attack …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 August, 2022 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (July 25, 2022) Location: Countrywide: Event: The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 2 Travel Health Notice for Monkeypox in Benin and several African countries . Actions to Take: Travelers should AVOID : Close contact with sick people, including those with skin lesions or genital lesions. Contact with dead or live wild animals such as small mammals …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 25 July, 2022 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (20 January 2022) Location: Benin, countrywide Event: The Government of Benin has extended the amount of time needed for arrival and departure COVID tests. Effective 17 Jan 2022: Arriving travelers – Must present a negative PCR test result dated within 72 hours of departure for Cotonou. COVID tests …
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By jobliak | 20 January, 2022 | Topics: Alert, U.S. Citizen Services
Travel Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin Location: Worldwide Subject: Travel to the United States on Expired U.S. Passports If you are overseas and your U.S. passport expired on or after January 1, 2020, you may be able to use your expired passport to return directly to the United States until March 31, 2022. You …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 28 December, 2021 | Topics: Alert, Travel & Tourism, U.S. Citizen Services
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin Location: Worldwide: Event: The Government of Benin has announced a new testing protocol and will require all travelers bound for Cotonou by air to present a negative PCR test result. The test must have been taken within 48 hours of departure for Cotonou. This new requirement replaces the current …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 28 December, 2021 | Topics: Alert, U.S. Citizen Services
Location: Worldwide: Event: On December 6, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will implement a one-day COVID-19 testing requirement for travelers over age two coming to the United States. Regardless of vaccination status or nationality, any individual coming to the United States must show a negative pre-departure COVID-19 viral test taken the day before …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 December, 2021 | Topics: Alert
(November 15, 2021) Location: Worldwide: Event: On October 25, President Biden announced the United States will adopt a global air travel policy. This policy prioritizes public health, protecting U.S. citizens and residents as well as those who come to visit us. Effective November 8 all non-citizen, nonimmigrant (not a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident, …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 15 November, 2021 | Topics: Alert
Release Date October 6, 2021 Location: Northern Benin Event: U.S. citizens are reminded to exercise increased caution in Benin due to general crime, including kidnapping, and maritime crime. Some areas have increased risk. Do Not Travel to the northern regions of Benin, including Park Pendjari, Park W, adjacent hunting zones, and Benin’s northeastern border area with Nigeria, …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 6 October, 2021 | Topics: Alert
News Alert: U.S. citizens may directly return to the United States with certain expired U.S. passports. If you are overseas and your passport expired on or after January 1, 2020, you may be able to use your expired passport to return directly to the United States until December 31, 2021. You qualify for this exception if all the following are …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 May, 2021 | Topics: Alert, News
Security Alert: Presidential Election Season in Benin Location: Throughout Benin Event: Benin will hold presidential elections on April 11, 2021. Before, during, and after Election Day, U.S. citizens in Benin should heighten their situational awareness and exercise increased caution. Presidential campaigning and election activity could generate large crowds and demonstrations. Election-related gatherings may lead to an increased …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 6 April, 2021 | Topics: Alert
Subject: Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (March 4, 2021) Location: Erevan Quartier, Cotonou, and Urban Areas Throughout Benin Event: There is an increased police and military presence in the Erevan Quartier of Cotonou, which may cause sporadic road closures and access restrictions over the next few days. Demonstrations may occur throughout Benin without little …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 March, 2021 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens
Embassy of the United States of America Cotonou, Benin Travel Advisory for U.S. Citizens: March 2, 2021 Reconsider travel to Benin due to COVID-19. Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Benin …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 3 March, 2021 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert – Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs (January 15, 2021) Location: Worldwide – The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director has signed an order requiring all airline passengers traveling to the United States, including U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs), to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 viral test or recovery from COVID-19. Event: Effective January 26, all airline passengers to the United …
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By jobliak | 15 January, 2021 | Topics: Alert
U.S. Embassy Cotonou informs U.S. citizens that, effective November 25, 2020, the consular exchange rate increased from 590F CFA to 600F CFA ($1.00 US = 600F CFA). All consular service fees, including passports, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad, notarials, and visas, will reflect this new exchange rate. Payment for consular services at U.S. Embassy Cotonou …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 November, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, News, U.S. Citizen Services
Demonstration Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (October 27, 2020) Location: Urban Areas Throughout Benin Event: The U.S. Embassy in Cotonou has received reports that demonstrators plan to march in urban areas throughout Benin, including Cotonou and Porto Novo, on Saturday, October 31, 2020, as part of a national women’s march. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 October, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Reconsider travel to Benin due to COVID-19. Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Benin due to COVID-19. Benin has resumed most transportation options (including airport operations) and business operations (including day cares and schools), although land borders remain closed to most travelers. Other improved …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 9 September, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: The Government of Benin is conducting mandatory COVID-19 testing of all airline passengers arriving in and departing from Benin. Tests are at the passenger’s expense, and must be paid in cash. For arrivals, fees are 100,000 CFA (approximately $180). Airlines may require passengers to present proof of payment in CFA or its Euro equivalent …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 August, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Reconsider travel to Benin due to COVID-19. Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Benin due to COVID-19. Benin has lifted stay at home orders and resumed some transportation options and business operations. Visit the Embassy’s COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Benin. …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 August, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (July 8, 2020) Location: Benin Event: Multiple airlines have scheduled flights in and out of Cotonou within the next two weeks, including Air France, Brussels Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Turkish Airways. Interested travelers should contact these carriers directly for schedules and booking. All travelers should confirm with the airlines transit/transfer requirements for connections to …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 July, 2020 | Topics: Alert, U.S. Citizen Services
Location: Northern Border Region of Benin and Park W Event: The Embassy has received reports of suspicious activity near Park W in northern Benin. There continue to be reports of suspicious activity in the northern border region of Benin and Park W. The Embassy closely evaluates the security environment and reports of suspicious activity and …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 26 June, 2020 | Topics: Alert
(June 22, 2020) Location: Benin Event:The Government of Benin is conducting mandatory COVID-19 testing of all airline passengers arriving in Benin. Tests are at passenger expense; fees of 100,000 CFA or €153 (approximately $165) must be paid in cash, and airlines may require proof of ability to pay as a condition of boarding. Travelers may …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 22 June, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (June 12, 2020) Location: Benin Event: The following companies have announced flight options out of Cotonou. Please note that all flights are subject to change. Travelers should confirm transit/transfer requirements for all connections to the United States. Passengers whose flights were cancelled should contact their airline directly for information about rebooking options. Air France has scheduled …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 12 June, 2020 | Topics: Alert, U.S. Citizen Services
Demonstration Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (June 10, 2020) Location: Cotonou, Benin: Areas of the Etoile Rouge, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs complex, and surrounding areas Event: The U.S. Embassy in Cotonou has received reports that a demonstration is planned for Thursday, June 11, 2020, at 0800 to protest current events in the United States. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 June, 2020 | Topics: Alert, U.S. Citizen Services
Location: Benin Event: Face masks or cloth coverings continue to be required in public, and social distancing guidelines remain in place in Benin. Public transportation has resumed, and places of worship may now be open. For more information, visit the Government of Benin’s COVID-19 website (in French). Air France is offering limited flights between Cotonou and Paris. …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 June, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (May 27, 2020) Location: Benin Event: Air France is offering limited flights between Cotonou and Paris. These flights are tentatively scheduled weekly on Thursday mornings. Passengers who wish to return to the United States must be able to secure a connecting onward flight from Paris to a destination in …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (May 20, 2020) Location: Benin Event: Air France is offering limited flights between Cotonou and Paris. These flights are tentatively scheduled weekly on Thursday mornings. Passengers who wish to return to the United States must be able to secure a connecting onward flight from Paris to a destination in …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 20 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (May 14, 2020) Location: Benin Event: On May 12, the Government of Benin announced mandatory COVID-19 testing of all airline passengers arriving in Benin. Tests will be done at passenger expense; fees are 100,000 CFA (approximately $165/€153), payable in cash only, and airlines may require advance payment as a …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 14 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert, U.S. Citizen Services
Embassy of the United States of America Cotonou, Benin Message for U.S. Citizens: May 13, 2020 The Consular Section cordially invites U.S. citizens in Benin to a virtual discussion with Ambassador Mahoney and consular representatives on Wednesday, May 20, at 6:00p.m. The Ambassador will provide an update on recent developments and U.S. Embassy activities and …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 13 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: As of May 12, the Government of Benin has confirmed 327 cases of COVID-19. Air France has indicated it is offering limited flights from Cotonou to Paris. Passengers who wish to return to the United States must be able to secure a connecting onward flight from Paris to a destination in the …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 12 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (May 7, 2020) Location: Benin Event: As of May 7, the Government of Benin has confirmed 140 cases of COVID-19. The Government of Benin announced that it will lift the health cordon around southern Benin effective on May 11. Facemasks or cloth coverings continue to be required in public, …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 7 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert, U.S. Citizen Services
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (May 4, 2020) Location: Benin Event: As of May 4, the Government of Benin has confirmed 96 cases of COVID-19, including two deaths. Air France is offering limited repatriation flights from Cotonou to Paris with priority for French and EU nationals. These flights may have capacity for individuals who …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (April 30, 2020) Location: Benin Event: On April 28, the Government of Benin announced that wearing facemasks in public is now required nationwide. The Embassy has received reports that failure to comply with this policy may result in fines. At this time, it is unknown when the next commercial flight with onward connections …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 30 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: As of April 27, the Government of Benin has confirmed 65 cases of COVID-19. Ethiopian Airlines has informed the Embassy it no longer expects to operate a flight from Cotonou to Addis Ababa on May 1 due to lack of demand. At this time, it is unknown when the next commercial flight with …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (April 23, 2020) Location: Benin Event: Ethiopian Airlines is currently selling tickets for a flight from Cotonou to Addis Ababa on May 1, pending sufficient demand, with onward connections to the United States. Plans for future flights are unknown, and travelers are reminded that flight schedules are subject to change …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 23 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: As of April 20, the Government of Benin has confirmed 54 cases of COVID-19, including one death. The Government of Benin has closed schools and houses of worship through May 10. The government requires everyone within the health cordon zone in southern Benin to wear face masks in public and recommends their …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 20 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (April 17, 2020) Location: Benin Event: Ethiopian Airlinesiscurrently offering flights from Cotonou to the U.S.via Lomé or Addis Abababeginning May 2. There are no other confirmed commercial flight options to depart Beninat this time.Passengerswhose flights werepreviously cancelled should contact their airline directly for information about rebooking options. U.S. citizens in Benin should prepare to shelter in placeuntil flights resume. U.S. Embassy Cotonou has …
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By jobliak | 17 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
April 15, 2020 Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (April 15, 2020) Location: Benin Event: Ethiopian Airlines is currently offering flights from Cotonou to the U.S. via Lomé or Addis Ababa beginning May 2. There are no other confirmed commercial flight options to depart Benin at this time. Passengers whose flights were previously cancelled …
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By jobliak | 15 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
April 13, 2020 Location: Benin Event: The Embassy has arranged a special commercial flight from Cotonou to Lomé, Togo, on Tuesday, April 14, for onward travel to Newark, New Jersey. A limited number of seats are available on a first come, first served basis. Tickets must be purchased before 17:00 today, Monday, April 13. U.S. citizens can purchase tickets …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 13 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
April 13, 2020 Location: Benin Event: The Embassy has arranged a special commercial flight from Cotonou to Lomé, Togo, on Tuesday, April 14, for onward travel to Newark, New Jersey. A limited number of seats are available on a first come, first served basis. Tickets must be purchased before 17:00 today, Monday, April 13. U.S. citizens can purchase tickets from …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 13 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (April 11, 2020) Location: Benin Event: The Embassy has arranged a special commercial flight from Cotonou to Lomé, Togo, on Tuesday, April 14, for onward travel to Newark, New Jersey. A limited number of seats are available on a first come, first served basis. Tickets must be purchased before 17:00 on Monday, …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 11 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: The Embassy has arranged a special commercial flight from Cotonou to Lomé, Togo, on Tuesday, April 14, for onward travel to Newark, New Jersey. A limited number of seats are available on a first come, first served basis. Tickets must be purchased before 17:00 on Monday, April 13. U.S. citizens can purchase …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: The Embassy has arranged a special commercial flight from Cotonou to Lomé, Togo, on Tuesday, April 14, for onward travel to Newark, New Jersey. A limited number of seats are available on a first come, first served basis. U.S. citizens can purchase tickets from Cotonou to Newark directly from Ethiopian Airlines by …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 9 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: As of April 7, the Government of Benin has confirmed 26 cases of COVID-19 within and outside the health cordon zone, including one death and several cases of local transmission. Ethiopian Airlines cancelled its April 11 flight due to lack of demand; plans for future flights are not known. There are no other …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 7 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (April 6, 2020) Location: Benin Event: As of April 6, the Government of Benin has confirmed 22 cases of COVID-19, including one death. On April 6, Ethiopian Airlines informed Embassy Cotonou its April 11 flight is likely to be cancelled due to lack of demand; plans for future …
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By jobliak | 6 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: On April 3, the Government of Benin extended its closure of all places of worship through April 19. Visit the COVID-19 website of the Government of Benin for additional information on the measures it is taking to limit the spread of COVID-19. U.S. citizens who wish to return to the United States should make commercial flight arrangements immediately. Those choosing to shelter in place should prepare to remain …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: U.S. citizens who wish to return to the United States should make commercial arrangements immediately. Those choosing to shelter in place should prepare to remain abroad for an indefinite period. The U.S. government does not anticipate arranging repatriation flights from Benin at this time. Pending sufficient demand for seats, Ethiopian Airlines is offering a flight to Addis Ababa on April 11 with an onward connection …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (April 3, 2020) Location: Benin Event: There are 13 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Benin. International commercial flight options currently exist in Benin. U.S. citizens who wish to return to the United States should make commercial arrangements as soon as possible unless they are prepared to remain abroad …
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By jobliak | 3 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (April 2, 2020) Location: Benin Event: There are 13 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Benin. As of April 2, commercial flight options out of Benin exist but are significantly reduced and could be suspended at any time. As previously indicated, the embassy strongly urges those who wish to return to the United …
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By jobliak | 2 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (April 1, 2020) Location: Benin Event: There are nine confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Benin. As of April 1, commercial flight options out of Benin exist but are significantly reduced and could be suspended at any time. As previously indicated, the embassy strongly urges those who wish to return to the United States to explore commercial flight options …
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By jobliak | 1 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (March 31, 2020) Location: Benin Event: There are nine confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Benin. As of March 31, commercial flight options out of Benin exist but are significantly reduced and could be changed or suspended at any time. U.S. citizens who want to return to the United States are urged to work with Ethiopian Airlines or …
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By jobliak | 31 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: As of March 30, commercial flights out of Benin exist but are significantly reduced. Ethiopian Airlines is offering seats on flights to Addis Ababa on April 4 and April 11, with onward connections to the United States. Air France has organized weekly specially scheduled flights, including on April 2, with priority given …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 30 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: Benin has confirmed six cases of COVID-19 within its borders. Beginning Monday, March 30, the Government of Benin will establish a health cordon around the municipalities of Cotonou, Abomey-Calavi, Allada, Ouidah, Sèmè-Podji, Porto-Novo, Akpro-Missérété, and Adjarra in order to isolate them from the rest of the country and contain the spread of COVID-19. …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 29 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: Benin has confirmed six cases of COVID-19 within its borders. Beginning Monday, March 30, the Government of Benin will establish a health cordon around the municipalities of Cotonou, Abomey-Calavi, Allada, Ouidah, Sèmè-Podji, Porto-Novo, Akpro-Missérété, and Adjarra in order to isolate them from the rest of the country and contain the spread of COVID-19. This …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 29 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: Benin has six confirmed cases of COVID-19 within its borders. In accordance with local public health recommendations, the U.S. Embassy in Cotonou, Benin has reduced operations to emergency services only from March 30 to April 13. U.S. citizens with emergencies should contact American Citizen Services at ACSCotonou@state.gov or call +229 21 36 75 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: As of March 26, 2020, Ethiopian Airlines is the only commercial carrier serving Cotonou’s Cadjehoun Airport with a regularly scheduled flight. U.S. citizens who are considering returning to the United States are urged to work with Ethiopian Airlines immediately to make travel arrangements while flights are available. If you are unable to …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 26 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin Location: Benin Event: In accordance with local public health recommendations, the United States Embassy in Cotonou, Benin, will be closed for all but emergency services from March 30 to April 13, 2020. U.S. citizens with emergencies should contact American Citizen Services at ACSCotonou@state.gov or call +229 21 36 75 00. Those …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 25 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: The Embassy has received reports suggesting possible anti-foreigner sentiment related to the spread of COVID-19 in Benin. Incidents of verbal harassment related to COVID-19 have been reported by U.S. citizens and other foreigners, along with difficulty or delays in obtaining access to routine medical care due to concerns that foreigners may have and transmit …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 24 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: The availability of commercial flights from Benin to the United States is increasingly limited, with some carriers having suspended flights to/from Cotonou. Many travelers seeking to depart Benin to return to the United States have also reported unexpected flight cancellations. As of March 23, the only remaining commercial options of which the …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 23 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: Correction to the previous alert message regarding the status of Peace Corps in Benin. On March 17, the Government of Benin released an advisory in response to a confirmed case of COVID-19 in Benin. The language of the advisory is available on its website (in French). The government of Benin has implemented enhanced screening …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 19 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (March 18, 2020) Location: Benin Event: On March 17, the Government of Benin released an advisory in response to a confirmed case of COVID-19 in Benin. The language of the advisory is available on its website (in French). The government of Benin has implemented enhanced screening and quarantine measures to reduce the spread …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Health Issues
Exercise increased caution in Benin due to COVID-19. Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 1 Travel Health Notice for Benin due to COVID-19. Benin has resumed most transportation options (including airport operations) and business operations (including day cares and schools), although land borders remain closed to most travelers. …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 17 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Notification
Location: Cotonou, Benin Event: On March 16, Benin’s Ministry of Health announced one confirmed case of COVID-19 in Cotonou, Benin. The Government of Benin has implemented enhanced screening and quarantine measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Persons entering Benin from countries affected by COVID-19 (including countries with only a single case of COVID-19) must identify themselves by …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 16 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: As of March 10, 2020, there are no suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Benin. On March 3, 2020, the Beninese Ministry of Health released an advisory regarding the potential for COVID-19 in Benin. The language of the advisory is available on its website ( Communiqué du ministre de la Santé (in French)). Persons entering Benin who are coming from countries affected …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: Heightened Middle East Tensions There is heightened tension in the Middle East that may result in security risks to U.S. citizens abroad. The Embassy will continue to review the security situation and will provide additional information as needed. Actions to Take: Keep a low profile; Be aware of your surroundings; Stay alert …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 January, 2020 | Topics: Alert
December 17, 2019 Event: Holidays in Benin provide increased risk for criminal activity. There is a heightened risk of armed robbery, assault, and kidnapping. Travelers to Benin are perceived to have gifts or large amounts of cash. Actions to Take: Exercise additional vigilance throughout the holiday season and at holiday events. Review your personal security …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 December, 2019 | Topics: Alert
Location: Northwestern Benin Event: There are reports of possible threats to local government facilities in the department of Atakora, in northwestern Benin, over the next few days. Actions to Take: Avoid large crowds Monitor local media for updates Review your personal security plans Carry a fully charged cellphone and emergency numbers Assistance: S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin +(229) 21-30-75-00 ConsularCotonou@state.gov State …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 31 July, 2019 | Topics: Alert
Location: Republic of Benin and its land borders Event: Benin’s land border with Togo will be closed for elections in the Republic of Togo on Sunday June 30, 2019. Please plan your travel accordingly. Actions to Take: Monitor local media for updates. Be aware of your surroundings. Do not plan overland travel to Togo. Assistance: …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 26 June, 2019 | Topics: Alert
Location: Tchaourou (about 50 km south of Parakou) Event: Protests in Tchaourou over several days have resulted in intermittent blocking of trafficking along the Cotonou-Malanville road and reports of some violent encounters and significant security force presence in the area. Consider alternate routes when traveling between Dassa and Parakou. Actions to Take: Avoid the area. …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 13 June, 2019 | Topics: Alert
Location: Park Pendjari, Northern Benin Event: On May 1, two Western tourists and their guide disappeared in Park Pendjari, in northern Benin. Actions to Take: Avoid the park complex, to include Parks Pendjari and W and adjacent hunting zones. Assistance: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin +(229) 21-30-75-00 ConsularCotonou@state.gov State Department – Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444 Benin Country Information Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates Follow …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 7 May, 2019 | Topics: Alert
May 2, 2019 Location: Cotonou, Cadjehoun and Haie Vive neighborhoods Event: Civil disturbances reported in Cadjehoun and Haie Vive, with numerous roads blocked or impassible. Avoid the area and minimize movement in nearby areas of Cotonou. Similar disturbances could occur without warning through the weekend. Actions to Take: Avoid the area Avoid crowds and demonstrations Monitor local …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 2 May, 2019 | Topics: Alert
2nd Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (May 1, 2019) Location: Cotonou Event: Due to continued reports of unrest and blocked street throughout central Cotonou, U.S. citizens are advised to minimize their movements this evening. Continue to monitor local media. Actions to Take: Remain at home or in a safe place Avoid crowds and demonstrations Be aware of your surroundings Keep …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 May, 2019 | Topics: Alert
Location: Cotonou, Haie Vive Event: Disturbances reported near Haie Vive, with roads blocked from Place de Martyrs to the Vedeko roundabout. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area, remain vigilant, and monitor local media. Actions to Take: Avoid the area Avoid crowds, and demonstrations Be aware of your surroundings Keep a low profile Assistance: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin +(229) 21-30-75-00 ConsularCotonou@state.gov State …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 May, 2019 | Topics: Alert
Location: Republic of Benin and its land borders Event: Benin’s land borders may be closed for legislative elections on Sunday, April 28, 2019. Please plan your travel accordingly. Demonstrations may occur throughout the election period. Actions to Take: Monitor local media for updates. Avoid crowds and demonstrations Be aware of your surroundings Keep a low profile Carry …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 24 April, 2019 | Topics: Alert
Location: Possible Nigerian land border closures February 22-25, 2019 Event: Due to Nigerian presidential elections taking place on Saturday, February 23, Nigerian land border crossings may be closed between Friday, February 22 and Monday, February 25. Please plan your travel accordingly. Actions to Take: Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Monitor local media for breaking events and be …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 22 February, 2019 | Topics: Alert
Location: Cotonou, Littoral Event: The Ministry of Health in Benin confirmed one new case of Lassa fever in Cotonou. Lassa fever is a rare but potentially life-threatening viral hemorrhagic disease. Actions to Take: Consult a medical professional if you have been in direct contact with an infected person within the past three weeks and have …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 December, 2018 | Topics: Alert
Location: Parc W in northeastern Benin. Event: Due to recent security concerns in regions within close proximity to Benin’s northeastern border, U.S. Embassy personnel are prohibited from personal travel to Parc W in northeastern Benin. Actions to Take: Avoid travel to Parc W Be aware of your surroundings Keep a low profile Stay alert in …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 17 December, 2018 | Topics: Alert
Location: Department of Borgou, near Parakou Event: The Ministry of Health in Benin confirmed two cases of Lassa fever with other cases suspected. Lassa fever is a rare but potentially life-threatening viral hemorrhagic disease. Actions to Take: · Consult a medical professional if you have been in direct contact with an infected person within the past …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 11 December, 2018 | Topics: Alert
Event: Local media has reported that a march/demonstration will occur on September 13th starting at 8:00 a.m. The intended route will be from the Bourse du Travail building just east of camp Guezo, to Etoile Rouge Circle northeast of Cotonou International Airport. It is possible that 1,000 or more people will take part in this labor union …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 12 September, 2018 | Topics: Alert
Location: Atacora and Borgou Regions, Benin Event: The Ministry of Health in Benin reported 10 cases of Lassa fever, a rare but potentially life-threatening viral hemorrhagic disease. Actions to Take: Consult a medical professional if you have been in direct contact with an infected person within the past three weeks and have symptoms of Lassa …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 24 January, 2018 | Topics: Alert