smartraveller.gov.au - Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
It's a must see destination.
It's a must see destination.
Sudan
| Sudan overall | This Advice is current for Saturday, 09 August 2008. | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Be alert to own security | Exercise caution | High degree of caution | Reconsider your need to travel | Do not travel |
This advice has been reviewed and reissued. It contains new information in the Summary and under Safety and Security: Civil Unrest/Political Tension (high threat of violence following ICC application to indict the Sudanese President) and Airline Safety (Sudan Airways). The overall level of the advice has not changed.
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Terrorism is a threat throughout the world. You can find more information about this threat in our General Advice to Australian Travellers.
Statements by international terrorist groups have called for a jihad in Sudan against western interests, including the UN peacekeeping force, and the Sudanese government.
On 1 January 2008, an American diplomat and his Sudanese driver were attacked and shot in their vehicle in Khartoum. Both men died.
On 17 March 2008, the US Embassy issued a warden message that warned its citizens to be aware of the risk of indiscriminate attacks on civilian targets in public places, which include tourist sites and locations where westerners are known to congregate and commercial operations associated with US or western interests.
In planning your activities, consider the kind of places known to be terrorist targets and the level of security provided. Possible targets include commercial and public areas known to be frequented by foreigners such as key transport installations including air, railways and sea ports, buildings associated with foreign governments and companies, hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars, schools, marketplaces, places of worship, outdoor recreation events and tourist areas. As security remains high at official facilities, terrorists may turn towards easier targets, such as residential compounds.
On 14 July 2008, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) made an application to the ICC for an arrest warrant for Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on charges of crimes against humanity and genocide. There is a high threat of a violent backlash. The United Nations in Sudan has advised non-essential staff and dependents to leave. Australians who decide to stay in Sudan are strongly advised to exercise increased vigilance, keep a low profile and stock up on essential supplies of food, water, fuel and other essentials. You should register your presence with the British Embassy in Khartoum and keep in regular contact with the embassy through its warden network.
We strongly advise you not to travel to Sudan due to the extremely dangerous security situation. Ask yourself whether, given your own personal circumstances, you're comfortable travelling in Sudan knowing you could be caught up in armed conflict, widespread lawlessness, violent crime and civil unrest. Ask yourself whether travel could be deferred or an alternative destination chosen. If, having considered these issues, you do decide to travel to Sudan, you should exercise extreme caution. If you are in Sudan and concerned for your safety, consider departing if it is safe to do so. Australians who decide to stay should ensure they have personal security measures in place.
Armed conflict, tribal clashes and violence involving rebel and militia groups occur regularly. Lawlessness, banditry, carjacking, kidnapping, abduction, murder, sexual assault and looting are a danger in many parts of the country. Westerners, including employees of aid organisations, journalists and other foreign workers, have been targeted and some killed, assaulted, kidnapped or injured. Bystanders may be caught up in violence directed at others.
You should also pay close attention to your personal security and monitor the media for information about possible new safety or security risks.
Conflicts can escalate and the security situation can deteriorate quickly, regardless of the existence of peace agreements. The security situation in the Darfur region of western Sudan has deteriorated during 2007, despite the signing of the Darfur Peace Agreement in May 2006. Civilians, including foreign workers, are at risk from the prevailing lawlessness and could be caught up in the violence between the various factions. There are regular reports of attacks, looting of premises and detention of humanitarian convoys. International organisations have withdrawn staff from this region.
Rebels from the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) launched an attack on Omdurman, a city close to Khartoum, on 10 May 2008. At that time, JEM publicly stated it intended to launch further attacks on the capital. Khartoum International Airport has reopened and most airlines have resumed services. If you plan to fly to Khartoum, you should first check with your airline.
National and international events and political developments may prompt demonstrations. You should avoid all rallies and demonstrations as they may turn violent. In the past, both participants and bystanders have been killed. Politically-motivated demonstrations, including anti-Western rallies, are common. You should also read our travel bulletin entitled Release of a film by Netherlands MP Geert Wilders.
Curfews can be imposed with little or no warning. All curfews should be strictly observed.
There are high levels of crime, particularly outside Khartoum where the situation is particularly dangerous. See the Civil Unrest/Political Tension section above.
Due to the prevalence of HIV/AIDS, victims of violent crime, especially rape, are strongly encouraged to seek immediate medical assistance outside of Sudan.
The land borders between Sudan and many neighbouring countries are effectively closed. The Wadi Halfa border crossing between Egypt and Sudan is currently open, although this is subject to change without notice.
Permits are required for all travel outside Khartoum and can be obtained locally. Travellers without permits to areas outside Khartoum have been arrested and detained. Travellers must register with the police authorities within 24 hours of arrival anywhere outside the capital.
Landmines and unexploded ordnance remain a danger throughout Sudan. According to the United Nations, at least 11,000 kilometres of road are suspected to be mined or blocked by landmines. Australians are urged to only use main roads and paths labelled as cleared by a competent de-mining authority.
Roads and vehicles are poorly maintained in Sudan and public transportation is limited and basic.
Piracy occurs in the coastal areas of Sudan. See our travel advice on shipping and ports for further information. The International Maritime Bureau issues weekly piracy reports on its website.
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.
A Sudan Airways passenger jet carrying more than 200 people burst into flames after landing at Khartoum airport in June 2008.
On 24 January 2007, a Sudanese Air West passenger plane was hijacked en route from Khartoum to Al Fasher in Sudan's Darfur region. The incident highlighted a severe security lapse with the airline and at Khartoum's international airport.
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.
Flooding can occur in Sudan, particularly during the rainy season (July to November). During these times, fresh drinking water and food could be in short supply and transport and communication infrastructure may also be affected. The risk of contracting a water-borne disease (particularly cholera and other water-borne diseases) could persist after the water recedes.
Sudan often experiences extremely high temperatures. During the hottest months of the year, the temperature can exceed 50˚C.
Sand storms and dust storms occur regularly.
Information on natural disasters can be obtained from the Humanitarian Early Warning Service. If a natural disaster occurs, you should follow the advice of local authorities and monitor the media for up-to-date information.
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.
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. Credit cards are not accepted in Sudan. Hotel bills must be paid in cash or travellers' cheques (American Express cheques are not accepted). ATMs are not available.
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.
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.
When you are in Sudan, 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.
The Interim National Constitution of Sudan has in effect created separate legal systems in the north and the south. Islamic Sharia Law is a source of legislation in the 15 states of the north, including Khartoum. Some conduct and activities not considered criminal in Australia are illegal in Sudan and attract severe penalties, including death sentences, long jail terms and corporal punishment. We strongly recommend you seek professional legal advice and are aware of your rights and responsibilities, particularly with regard to family law (divorce, child custody and child support).
Homosexual practices and extra-marital relations are illegal and subject to severe penalties.
It is illegal to import or consume alcohol, even in private. People convicted of consuming alcohol may be sentenced to corporal punishment (lashes).
In the north, there are penalties for preaching to non-Muslim groups.
Permits are required for any photography in Sudan. Photography of military areas, bridges, broadcast stations, public utilities, slum areas and beggars is strictly prohibited.
Penalties for drug offences are severe in Sudan.
Serious crime, such as murder, may attract the death penalty.
Some offences may attract corporal punishment.
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.
There are strong Islamic codes of dress and behaviour in Sudan, particularly for women. Eating, drinking and smoking between sunrise and sunset is forbidden for Muslims during Ramadan. You should take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice. You should also read our Ramadan travel bulletin.
Our Travel Information for Dual Nationals brochure provides further information.
Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) change regularly. Contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Sudan for the most up to date information.
Travellers are required to register with the Aliens' Registration Office, Ministry of the Interior, within three days of arrival in Khartoum.
Visas are required for Australians entering Sudan and passports must have a minimum of six months validity from the date of entry into Sudan. Travellers with passports bearing an Israeli visa or Israel entry/exit stamps will not be allowed to enter Sudan.
If you have visited Sudan in the last six days prior to your date of return to Australia, Australian Customs officials will ask you to present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate on entry into Australia.
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.
The standard of medical facilities is basic in Khartoum and inadequate outside of the capital. Doctors and hospitals generally require up-front payment before commencing treatment. In the event of a serious illness or accident, medical evacuation to a destination with the appropriate facilities would be necessary. Medical evacuation costs could be considerable.
Malaria is a risk throughout the year in all parts of Sudan. Other insect-borne diseases (including yellow fever, dengue, filariasis, leishmaniasis, river blindness and African sleeping sickness) also occur. We encourage you to take prophylaxis against malaria and take measures to avoid insect bites, including using insect repellent at all times.
Water-borne, food-borne, parasitic and other infectious diseases (including typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, tuberculosis, polio, HIV/AIDS, meningococcal disease, Rift Valley fever and rabies) are prevalent with more serious outbreaks occurring from time to time. We encourage you to consider having vaccinations before travelling. 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 World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) has confirmed cases of avian influenza in birds in a number of countries throughout the world, including Sudan. 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.
Australia does not have an Embassy or Consulate in Sudan. You can obtain consular assistance from the Australian Embassy in Cairo, Egypt, which is accredited to Sudan:
Australian Embassy
11th floor, North Tower, World Trade Centre
1191 Corniche El Nil
Boulac, Cairo EGYPT
Telephone: (20 2) 2575 0444
Facsimile: (20 2) 2578 1638
Email: cairo.austremb@dfat.gov.au
Website: www.egypt.embassy.gov.au
Australians in southern Sudan may also contact:
Australian High Commission
Riverside Drive (400 metres off Chiromo Road)
Nairobi, KENYA
Telephone: (254 20) 444 5034
Facsimile: (254 20) 444 4718
Website: www.kenya.highcommission.gov.au
Our ability to provide consular services, including emergency assistance, is limited due to extreme difficulties accessing areas outside Khartoum.
If you are travelling to Sudan, whatever the reason and however long you'll be there, we strongly recommend you 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 embassy or high commission, 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.
While every care has been taken in preparing this travel information for travellers, neither the Australian Government nor its agents or employees including any member of Australia's consular staff abroad, can accept liability for injury, loss or damage arising in respect of any statement contained therein.
