This advice has been reviewed and reissued. It contains new information under Local Laws (professional legal advice) and Where to Get Help.
Safety and Security
Terrorism
Terrorism is a threat throughout the world. You can find more information about this threat in our General Advice to Australian Travellers.
We advise you to reconsider your need to travel to Ethiopia, including Addis Ababa, because of the high threat of terrorist attack against Western interests and ongoing political tensions. If you do decide to travel to Ethiopia, you should exercise extreme caution and avoid crowds. Australians could be caught up in attacks directed at others.
Recent credible information indicates terrorists may be planning attacks in the eastern Ethiopian city of Jijiga. Possible targets include hotels. Information indicates terrorists may also be planning attacks in Dire Dawa.
In April 2008, explosions occurred at two petrol stations in Addis Ababa within 15 minutes. Three people were killed and 19 injured.
There has been an upsurge in violence in the area east of Harer and Gode. In August 2007, there were two explosions – one in a market and the other near a Protestant church – which reportedly killed one person and injured many others. Five people were killed and more than 50 injured following an explosion at the Jijiga stadium in May 2007. A recreation centre in Jijiga has been targeted, while simultaneous bomb blasts have also occurred.
In March 2007, a group of Western nationals, including some members of staff from the British Embassy in Addis Ababa, were kidnapped in the Afar region (Danakil Desert area), north east Ethiopia. Media reports suggest that the rebels who claimed responsibility for the kidnappings had said they would abduct other foreigners who entered their territory.
You should be particularly vigilant in the lead up to and on days of national or religious significance as militants may use these occasions to mount attacks.
In planning your activities, consider the kind of places known to be terrorist targets and the level of security provided. These include commercial and public areas known to be frequented by foreigners such as hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, markets, shops, places of worship, outdoor recreation events, landmarks, public gatherings and tourist areas. Aircraft, airports, petrol stations, buses, railways and other transport infrastructure are also possible terrorist targets (see under Local Travel below).
Ogaden area of the Somali region: We strongly advise you not to travel to the Ogaden area of the Somali region. The rebel Ogaden National Liberation Front has claimed responsibility for an attack in Obele in the Ogaden area in which 74 people, including nine Chinese nationals, were killed by gunmen in April 2007. It has warned the Ogaden area is a battle zone and it will not guarantee the safety of any firm operating in the area.
Civil Unrest/Political Tension
Conflict in neighbouring countries could spill over into Ethiopia, particularly along the border with Somalia. Ethiopian and Somali government forces have been involved in fighting with the Union of Islamic Courts in Somalia. Although the fighting has been only in Somalia, there is potential for insurgent attacks to be directed at Ethiopia.
Political tensions are high in Ethiopia. Protesters have been killed in violent demonstrations in Addis Ababa. We advise you to avoid large gatherings throughout the country given their potential to turn violent. International events and political developments may trigger large demonstrations.
In the past, explosions in Addis Ababa targeted government institutions, public areas, public transportation, restaurants and cafes resulting in death and injury. Tensions remain high and further violence could flare up at any time, including in other centres in Ethiopia.
Ethiopian security forces do not have a widespread presence in the country and may not have the capacity to respond to incidents.
Border with Kenya: We strongly advise you not to travel to the areas bordering Kenya due to the presence of armed groups and landmines. Cross border violence occurs, including kidnapping, armed banditry, and violent tribal and clan disputes.
Border with Somalia: We strongly advise you not to travel to the areas bordering Somalia due to violence clashes between government forces and insurgents. Somali and Ethiopian government troops have been involved in violent clashes with militant insurgents since December 2006. The clashes appear to be escalating and tensions remain extremely high. Firearm, grenade and landmine attacks on security forces are common. Civilians have been killed and injured. All travel to the Ogaden areas of the Somali region should also be avoided due to the dangerous security situation.
Border with Sudan, including the Gambella region: We strongly advise you not to travel to the areas bordering Sudan, including the Gambella region, due to the presence of armed groups, inter-tribal clashes and landmines and the risk of banditry and kidnapping. The security situation in Sudan is extremely dangerous and there is a high risk of violent crime and civil unrest. Continuing unrest and sporadic violence in this region has led to the deaths of many people, including a number of UN personnel. The security situation remains volatile and could escalate without warning.
Border with Eritrea: We also strongly advise you not to travel to the disputed border area between Ethiopia and Eritrea because of the extremely dangerous security situation and the presence of landmines. A peace agreement signed between Ethiopia and Eritrea in 2000 is yet to be fully implemented and the border is heavily militarised and remains closed. Both sides are on heightened alert and political tensions remain high. Hostilities could escalate further at any time. In March 2008, eight people were killed and 11 injured when a bus exploded as it left a bus station in the border town of Humera. There are no direct flights between the two countries. See also our travel advice for Eritrea.
Crime
Pickpocketing, bag and jewellery snatching and other petty crimes are common in crowded areas, especially in the Mercato open air market and Piazza areas of Addis Ababa.
Highway banditry and armed carjacking have been reported outside the main urban centres.
Due to the high prevalence of HIV/AIDS, victims of violent crime, especially rape, are strongly encouraged to seek immediate medical assistance.
Local Travel
Landmines are a hazard in the border areas with Eritrea, Sudan and Somalia.
In the past, sabotage by terrorists has caused the derailment of trains from the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa to Djibouti. Buses have also been attacked.
The rainy season occurs from June to September and some roads may become impassable during this period due to flooding.
Driving in Ethiopia can be hazardous as most roads are in poor condition. Excessive speeds, local driving habits, roaming animals, poorly maintained vehicles and inadequate road lighting pose particular risks.
Airline Safety
Passengers on international flights to and from Australia are only allowed to carry a small amount of liquids (including aerosols and gels) in their carry-on baggage. You can find out more information at the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government website. Similar restrictions apply to flights in an increasing number of countries. Contact your airline for further information.
If you have concerns about the safety standards of a particular airline or aircraft, we recommend you research the airline or aircraft through organisations such as Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government has published fact sheets on security for air travellers. When staff at Australia’s overseas missions are advised not to use particular airlines due to safety concerns, this will be included in the travel advisory.
The European Union (EU) has published a list of airlines that are subject to operating bans or restrictions within the EU. The United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) through its foreign assessment program focuses on a country’s ability, not the individual airline, to adhere to international standards and recommended practices for aircraft operations and maintenance established by ICAO.
Natural Disasters, Severe Weather and Climate
Ethiopia is in an active seismic and volcanic zone and is subject to earthquakes.
Roads may be impassable during the wet season (June to September) due to flooding.
Information on natural disasters can be obtained from the Humanitarian Early Warning Service. If a natural disaster occurs, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media for the latest information.
Wildlife Watching
Australians are advised to maintain a safe and legal distance when observing wildlife, including marine animals and birds. You should only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators and closely follow park regulations and wardens’ advice.
Money and Valuables
Before you go, organise a variety of ways to access your money overseas, such as credit cards, travellers’ cheques, cash, debit cards or cash cards. Check with your bank whether your ATM card will work overseas. There are limited ATMs in Addis Ababa.
Make two photocopies of valuables such as your passport, tickets, visas and travellers’ cheques. Keep one copy with you in a separate place to the original and leave another copy with someone at home.
While travelling, don’t carry too much cash and remember that expensive watches, jewellery and cameras may be tempting targets for thieves.
As a sensible precaution against luggage tampering, including theft, lock your luggage. Information on luggage safety is available from Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority.
Your passport is a valuable document that is attractive to criminals who may try to use your identity to commit crimes. It should always be kept in a safe place. You are required by Australian law to report a lost or stolen passport. If your passport is lost or stolen overseas, report it online or contact the nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate as soon as possible.
You are required to pay an additional fee to have a lost or stolen passport replaced. In some cases, the Government may also restrict the length of validity or type of replacement passports.
For Parents
If you are planning on placing your children in schools or childcare facilities overseas we encourage you to research the standards of security, care and staff training within those establishments. You should exercise the same precautions you would take before placing children into schools or childcare facilities in Australia.
Ideas on how to select childcare providers are available from the smartraveller Children’s Issues page, Child Wise and the National Childcare Accreditation Council.
Local Laws
When you are in Ethiopia, be aware that local laws and penalties, including ones that appear harsh by Australian standards, do apply to you. If you are arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you but we can’t get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Information on what Australian consular officers can and cannot do to help Australians in trouble overseas is available from the Consular Services Charter.
Australians who might engage in activities that involve local legal matters, particularly with regard to family law (divorce, child custody and child support), are strongly advised to seek professional advice and ensure they are aware of their rights and responsibilities.
The death penalty may be imposed for serious crimes, such as aggravated murder.
Penalties for drug offences are severe in Ethiopia and include long jail sentences and heavy fines.
Homosexual behaviour is illegal and penalties include imprisonment.
Written authorisation from the National Museum in Addis Ababa is required for the purchase or removal of Ethiopian antiquities and other cultural artefacts.
Photography around military zones, military assets and military personnel is illegal and may result in arrest and detention. You should also obey signs prohibiting photography and refrain from taking photos if the location or infrastructure may be considered sensitive.
Some Australian criminal laws, such as those relating to money laundering, bribery of foreign public officials, terrorism and child sex tourism, apply to Australians overseas. Australians who commit these offences while overseas may be prosecuted in Australia.
Australian authorities are committed to combating sexual exploitation of children by Australians overseas. Australians may be prosecuted at home under Australian child sex tourism laws. These laws provide severe penalties of up to 17 years imprisonment for Australians who engage in sexual activity with children under 16 while outside of Australia.
Local Customs
There are conservative standards of behaviour and dress in Ethiopia. You should take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.
The Julian calendar is used in Orthodox Christian areas in the highlands, while some Ethiopians set their clocks differently to what is customary elsewhere, resulting in significant time differences. To avoid confusion, always check bookings and appointments.
Information for Dual Nationals
Ethiopia does not recognise dual nationality. This may limit our ability to provide consular assistance to Australian/Ethiopian dual nationals who are arrested or detained.
Our Travel Information for Dual Nationals brochure provides further information for dual nationals.
Entry and Exit Requirements
Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Ethiopia for the most up-to-date information.
Health Issues
We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that will cover any overseas medical costs, before you depart. Confirm that your insurance covers you for the whole time you’ll be away and check what circumstances and activities are not included in your policy. Remember, regardless of how healthy and fit you are, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.
Your doctor or travel clinic is the best source of information about preventive measures, immunisations (including booster doses of childhood vaccinations) and disease outbreaks overseas. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides information for travellers and our Travelling Well brochure also provides useful tips for travelling with medicines and staying healthy while overseas.
Health facilities are limited in Addis Ababa and inadequate in rural areas. In the event of a serious illness or accident, medical evacuation to a destination with appropriate facilities would be necessary. Medical evacuation costs would be considerable.
Malaria is prevalent in Ethiopia, except for the capital Addis Ababa and areas above 2000 metres. Chloroquine resistant strains are prevalent in some areas. Other insect-borne diseases (including dengue fever, leishmaniasis, filariasis and African sleeping sickness) also occur. We encourage you to take prophylaxis against malaria where necessary and take measures to avoid insect bites, including using an insect repellent at all times.
Water-borne, food-borne and other infectious diseases (including cholera, typhoid, hepatitis, polio, measles, tuberculosis, brucellosis and meningitis) are also prevalent with more serious outbreaks occurring from time to time. We encourage you to consider having vaccinations before travelling, including booster doses of childhood vaccinations. We advise you to boil all drinking water or drink bottled water, avoid ice cubes and raw and undercooked food. Do not swim in fresh water to avoid exposure to certain water borne diseases such as bilharzia (schistosomiasis). Seek medical advice if you have a fever or are suffering from diarrhoea.
The rate of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections in Ethiopia is high. You should exercise appropriate precautions if engaging in activities that expose you to risk of infection. You can find out more information from the Department of Health and Ageing.
The altitude in the mountainous regions of Ethiopia can cause problems for travellers, particularly those who suffer from lung, heart or chest problems. Healthy travellers may also feel the effects of the lack of oxygen.
The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has confirmed cases of avian influenza in birds in a number of regions throughout the world, including the Horn of Africa. For a list of these countries, visit the OIE website. For information on our advice to Australians on how to reduce the risk of infection and on Australian Government precautions see our travel bulletin on avian influenza.
Where to Get Help
Australia does not have an Embassy or Consulate in Ethiopia. By agreement between the Canadian and Australian governments, the Canadian Embassy in Addis Ababa provides consular assistance to Australians in Ethiopia. This service does not include the issue of Australian passports. The address is:
Canadian Embassy
Old Airport Area, Nefas Silk Lafto Sub City
Kebele 04, House No. 122
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Telephone (251 11) 371 3022
Facsimile (251 11) 371 3033
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.ethiopia.gc.ca
You can also obtain consular assistance from the nearest Australian High Commission which is in Kenya:
Australian High Commission
Riverside Drive (400 metres off Chiromo Road)
Nairobi, Kenya
Telephone: (254 20) 444 5034
Facsimile: (254 20) 444 4718
Website: http://www.kenya.embassy.gov.au/
If you are travelling to Ethiopia, whatever the reason and however long you’ll be there, we encourage you to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. You can register online or in person at any Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate. The information you provide will help us to contact you in an emergency – whether it is a natural disaster, civil disturbance or a family issue.
In a consular emergency if you are unable to contact the above mission, you can contact the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or 1300 555 135 within Australia.
In Australia, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Canberra may be contacted on (02) 6261 3305.