Warden Information

April 26 Warden Message

04/26/05

American Embassy
Freetown, Sierra Leone

Warden Message:  To all American citizens in Sierra Leone

This Warden Message is being issued to inform you of a large festival gathering in Freetown today and tomorrow and to urge you to pay particular attention to your personal security during this time.

On April 26 and 27, the Lantern Parade, a traditional celebration in honor of Sierra Leone’s Independence Day, will take place in central Freetown.  It will start between 7:30 and 8:00 p.m. on both days and parade participants will march into downtown Freetown from both East and West Freetown.  The East Freetown route will originate at Upgun Roundabout and proceed down Kissy Road to Siaka Stevens Street.  The West Freetown route will originate at the National Stadium and proceed down Sanders Street to Siaka Stevens Street.

Up to 100,000 people are expected for the parade, so there is the potential for unrest along the parade routes and in central Freetown.  American citizens are advised to exercise caution around Kissy Road, Wilberforce Road, Siaka Stevens Street, Wellington Street, Lightfoot Boston Street, the Cotton Tree area, and the Bank of Sierra Leone in Central Freetown. 

PLEASE SHARE THIS MESSAGE WITH AS MANY AMERICANS AS YOU CAN.

The U.S. Embassy is located on the corner of Siaka Stevens and Walpole Streets in Freetown; the telephone number for American citizens services is 226-481; the after hours telephone is 227-998. 

Consular Section Freetown
Address: Corner of Walpole and Siaka Stevens Street
Freetown, Sierra Leone
Tel: (232-22) 226-481, extensions 285, 207, or 205
Email: consularfreetown@state.gov