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Reviewed: 25 May 2010, 11:10 NZDT
Still current at:
19 May 2013
There is extreme risk to your security in the north east (Vakaga Province and Bamingui-Bangoran Province) and in the south east (Haut-Mbomou Province) of the Central African Republic, bordering Chad and Sudan, due to the activities of armed rebel groups, bandits and poachers. We advise against all travel to these areas. The border with Sudan is closed.
There is a high risk to your security in the rest of the Central African Republic and we advise against all tourist and other non-essential travel due to the unpredictable security situation.
Although a unity government was formed in January 2009 the security situation in the Central African Republic remains unstable and dangerous. Sporadic fighting between government forces and armed groups occurs throughout the country, including in the capital Bangui. New Zealanders should avoid all demonstrations and public gatherings as they may turn violent. There is a high level of crime by armed gangs in Bangui and on the outskirts of the capital. Road travel is dangerous due to the high risk of highway robberies.
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in the Central African Republic, the ability of the government to assist New Zealand citizens who get into trouble is severely limited.
New Zealanders travelling or living in the Central African Republic should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place that include provision for medical evacuation by air. You should check that your travel insurance policy covers travel in the Central African Republic – exclusions may well apply. Only very limited medical facilities are available in the Central African Republic.
New Zealanders resident or travelling in the Central African Republic are strongly encouraged to register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for Africa
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