August 11, 2017 - The United States embassy in Ethiopia announced that the main road from Addis Ababa to Jijiga has been blocked by security forces between the cities of Babile and Harar due to intense fighting including gunfire.
Ethiopian Defense Force troops are arriving in the area, and the road is not passable. The Embassy has also recommended that U.S. citizens avoid travel between Babile and Harar at this time.
“As always, review your personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates. Maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to enhance your personal security.” reads the Embassy’s website.
Earlier today, the Ethiopian Communication minister, Negre Lencho, has categorically dismissed the information by the US embassy in Addis Ababa. “Due to the lack of awareness about border demarcations, some local residents have forbidden experts who were sent there to demarcate borders between Oromia and Somali regional states. Then the experts left the area; no conflict happened there,” said the minster.