In April 1998, the Peace Corps suspended its operations in Chad, citing security concerns.
In April 1998, the Peace Corps suspended its operations in Chad, citing security concerns.
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Chad ============================================================ Chad - Consular Information Sheet July 16, 1998
Country Description: Chad is a developing country in north central Africa with one of the lowest per capita incomes in the world. Though currently exhibiting signs of stability and of political, social and economic recovery, Chad still faces daunting challenges. Years of war, drought and famine severely damaged the country's institutions and its infrastructure. Facilities for tourism are limited.
Entry Requirements: U.S. citizens visiting Chad must present a passport and a visa upon arrival. Evidence of yellow fever vaccination may also be required. Visitors must check in with the National Police and obtain a registration stamp within 72 hours of arrival. Further entry information may be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of Chad, 2002 R St. N.W., Washington D.C. 20009, telephone (202) 462-4009.
Areas of Instability: The potential for conflict between armed insurgents and government security forces exists in several parts of the country. These include the far north and south (eastern and western Logone and Moyen Chari prefectures) and the Lake Chad region. Chad's northern provinces bordering Libya remain heavily mined. Travel to this area is extremely dangerous and requires permission from the Chadian government. Visitors who are not in possession of a valid passport and a visa may experience difficulties at police roadblocks or during other checks. Overland travel after dark is discouraged due to the activity of highway bandits. In April 1998, the Peace Corps suspended its operations in Chad, citing security concerns.
Medical Facilities: Medical facilities are extremely limited in Chad. Medicines are in short supply or unavailable, including many over-the-counter preparations sold in the U.S. The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for the payment of medical services outside the United States. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States; supplemental coverage, including a provision for medical air evacuation, has proved to be useful. Often, cash payments must be made directly to doctors and hospitals in advance of treatment. Information on health matters may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's International Travelers' hotline at 888-232-3228 or the toll-free CDC autofax at 888-232-3299or via the Internet at http://www.cdc.gov.
Information on Crime: Pickpockets and purse snatchers are endemic in market and commercial areas. Burglary and vehicle thefts increase during times of political instability. Travelers to northern Cameroon should contact the Embassy Regional Security Officer in N'Djamena prior to crossing the border because of a high incidence of road attacks there. The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region in general. Both are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Traffic Safety and Road Conditions: Roads are in poor condition and dangerous. No emergency services exist. Travelers on roads in all areas of the country are subject to attack by armed bandits. During the summer rainy season many roads become impassable or are restricted by rain barriers.
Aviation Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service at present, or economic authority to operate such service, between the U.S. and Chad, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the Chadian Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international aviation safety standards for oversight of Chad's air carrier operations. For further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation within the U.S. at 1-800-322-7873, or visit the FAA Internet Home Page at http://www.faa.gov/avr/iasa.htm. The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) separately assesses some foreign air carriers for suitability as official providers of air services. For information regarding the DOD policy on specific carriers, travelers may contact the Pentagon at (703) 697-7288.
Photo Restrictions: A Government permit is required for all photography. Photography of military sites, official buildings and airports may be prohibited, even with a permit.
Drug Penalties: U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration: U.S. citizens are urged to register at the U.S. Embassy immediately upon arrival. The Embassy can provide updated information on travel and security in Chad and strongly recommends that travelers contact the Embassy prior to travel outside N'Djamena.
Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy is located in N'Djamena on Avenue Felix Ebque; mailing address is B.P. 413. Telephone: (235) 51-62-11, 51-70-09, 51-77-59, 51-90-52, 51-92-18 and 51-92-33. Fax: (235) 51-56-54.
No. 98-101
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated March 7, 1997, to update the Areas of Instability and Road Conditions and to add the paragraph on Aviation Oversight. Travel Advisories
