The U.S. Embassy in Libreville advises U.S. citizens that the Government of the Gabonese Republic plans to hold legislative elections on December 17, 2011.  You may see an increased security presence throughout the country on Election Day and for several days preceding and following the announcement of election results.  This increased security presence is normal and precautionary only and does not indicate any imminent threat to security in the country or expected civil disturbances.  As always, we urge U.S. citizens to avoid crowds and demonstrations and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any large gatherings.   

You can stay in touch and get Embassy updates by checking the web site of U.S. Embassy Libreville.  You can also get global updates at the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs website where you can find the current Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings, Travel Alerts, and Country Specific Information for Gabon.  The U.S. Embassy in Gabon also provides diplomatic and consular services for São Tomé and Príncipe.  Country Specific Information for São Tomé and Príncipe can also be found on the Department's Consular Affairs website.  If you don't have internet access, current information on safety and security can also be obtained by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States, or for callers from other countries, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.  These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).  

If you are going to live in or travel to Gabon or São Tomé and Príncipe, please take the time to tell us about your trip by enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).  If you enroll, we can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements.  It will also help your friends and family get in touch with you in an emergency.  You should remember to keep all of your information in STEP up to date.  It is important during enrollment or updating of information to include your current phone number and current email address where you can be reached in case of an emergency. 

The U.S. Embassy in Libreville is located in Centre Ville on the Boulevard du Bord de Mer, and may be reached at +241 76-20-03/04, during business hours.  For after-hours emergencies, U.S. citizens should call +241 0738-0171, and ask to speak with the duty officer.