The Foreign Office today revised its travel advice for Chad. We are now advising against all but essential travel to N’Djamena and against all travel to the rest of Chad. The amended summary points now read:

* “We advise against all but essential travel to N’Djamena and against all travel to the rest of Chad. On 13 November 2006 The Government of Chad issued a State of Emergency in a number of eastern regions of Chad and the capital, N’Djamena. The State of Emergency also reinstated censorship of the independent media and forbade radio coverage of issues “affecting public order”.

* “If you are in eastern Chad, or in the area bordering Sudan/the Central African Republic (CAR) you should consider whether your presence is essential; if not you should consider leaving. There has been heavy fighting in this area. Please see the Political Situation of this travel advice for more details.

* “Further rebel attacks, especially in eastern Chad, cannot be ruled out. If, against our advice, you decide to remain in eastern Chad, or the areas near the borders with Sudan/the CAR, you should keep a low profile, seek local advice and continue to monitor this travel advice.

* “The overall political and security situation is uncertain, and could change rapidly. If you do travel to Chad, we recommend that you keep abreast of events through the local media and ensure that you are registered with the British High Commission in Yaounde.

* “You should carry identification at all times (either a residence permit or a certified copy of your passport). Failure to produce such identification can lead to detention by the police.

* “The borders with Sudan, Libya and the CAR are subject to closure at little or no notice.

* “More than 900 cases of cholera have been reported in Chad since April 2006, more than 200 of these in the capital N’Djamena. Please see the Health section of this travel advice for more details.

* “We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake. Please see the “Travel Insurance” page of the FCO website.”
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