Rwanda Stands Firmly With Namibia and African Nations as Canada Issues New Travel Advisory Over Security Risks and Border Threats

Written By: Srishty Mishra

Srishty Mishra

A passionate storyteller and emerging journalist, I am currently pursuing my Master’s in English at DU while diving deep into the world of journalism. With two years of practical experience, I have cultivated a knack for transforming ideas into engaging narratives that captivate readers. My journey blends academic insight with real-world reporting, allowing me to explore culture, travel, and lifestyle through a creative and informed lens. Committed to delivering fresh, authentic, and impactful content, I strive to make every story not just read, but truly experienced.

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September 10, 2026 11:03 GMT+5:30

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Canada issues new travel advisory for Africa amid security and border risks in Rwanda, Ethiopia and Namibia. A new travel advisory for Rwanda, Ethiopia and Namibia has been issued by Canada, indicating risks related to security, border conflict, criminal activities, health issues and entry criteria, which are essential for all international travelers to know prior to making travel plans. While Rwanda is relatively safe, with some border regions being more problematic, Ethiopia is faced with serious security issues, and Namibia poses additional risks for travelers because of crime.

The latest Canadian advisory underlines an important message for travellers exploring Africa. Safety conditions can vary significantly within the same country. Popular tourist destinations may remain accessible, while border zones, conflict-affected regions and remote areas can present additional risks. Travellers are advised to stay informed, follow local authority instructions and prepare carefully before departure.

Rwanda Remains Stable But Border Areas Raise Security Concerns for Travellers

Rwanda continues to maintain a relatively stable travel environment, with Canada advising visitors to take normal security precautions across most of the country. However, travellers heading towards areas close to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) border are being advised to exercise a higher level of caution due to security uncertainty.

The main areas affected include parts of Rubavu and Rusizi districts. The advisory highlights concerns around the proximity of rebel groups operating in eastern DRC. Travellers visiting Rubavu District should be particularly careful in areas between roads NR11 and NR2 and the DRC border, including the town of Gisenyi.

Rusizi District also requires additional attention, especially within 10 kilometres of the land border. This includes the town of Rusizi, Rwandan islands on Lake Kivu and the area around Kamembe Airport.

For international visitors, these warnings do not apply equally across Rwanda. Major tourism destinations and urban areas remain open, but travellers should carefully consider routes near sensitive border zones.

Rwanda Strengthens Border Awareness as DRC Tensions Affect Travel Movement

The security situation along the Rwanda–DRC border remains a major factor behind the updated advisory. Canada highlighted that tensions linked to fighting in eastern DRC could affect nearby areas, especially around Rubavu District.

Travellers planning visits around Lake Kivu or border-connected routes should monitor local developments before travelling. Sudden security changes, road restrictions or border controls can affect movement with limited notice.

Health-related border measures are also influencing travel conditions. Due to an Ebola outbreak in the DRC, restrictions apply to some travellers who have recently visited affected areas.

Foreign visitors who have travelled through the DRC within 21 days before entering Rwanda may face additional health screening measures. These can include temperature checks, quarantine requirements or travel restrictions depending on circumstances.

Most travellers should also note that crossings at the Gisenyi–Goma and Cyangugu–Bukavu land borders are restricted for many passengers.

Rwanda Tourism Areas Face Extra Checks Near Volcanoes National Park

Rwanda’s famous Volcanoes National Park, known globally for mountain gorilla tourism, is another area where travellers need increased awareness.

Canada advises visitors to exercise a high degree of caution in the section of Volcanoes National Park located along the DRC border in Musanze District.

The concern comes from unclear border markings and the possibility of security incidents linked to instability across the border.

For tourists visiting Rwanda for gorilla trekking and nature experiences, the advisory does not mean tourism has stopped. Instead, visitors should follow park instructions, use authorised operators and remain within approved travel zones.

Rwanda Travel Essentials Passport and Visa Information

Travellers entering Rwanda should ensure their documents are prepared before departure.

For Canadian passport holders, the passport must remain valid for at least six months beyond the expected departure date from Rwanda.

Tourist visas are required for some travellers and a 30-day tourist visa can be obtained on arrival or through the official Irembo platform. Business travellers require appropriate business visas, while work activities require valid work permits.

Visitors should also maintain travel documents securely throughout their stay due to the risk of petty crime.

Ethiopia Faces Major Travel Challenges as Security Situation Remains Unpredictable

Unlike Rwanda, Ethiopia is facing a much higher level of travel concern. Canada advises avoiding non-essential travel to Ethiopia because of civil unrest, armed conflict, violence, fuel shortages and crime risks.

The advisory excludes Addis Ababa from the highest warning level, but travellers in the capital are still advised to exercise a high degree of caution due to crime risks and the possibility that demonstrations could become violent.

Ethiopia’s security environment differs sharply from region to region. Some areas remain accessible, while others face serious instability.

Travellers considering Ethiopia must carefully review regional conditions before travelling, as security situations can change quickly.

Ethiopia Conflict Zones Create Serious Risks for International Visitors

Canada advises avoiding travel to several northern and central regions because of armed conflict, civil unrest and unpredictable security conditions.

The northern regions of Amhara, Benishangul-Gumuz and Tigray face serious concerns.

The Amhara region has experienced repeated clashes between armed groups and security forces. Kidnapping risks are also present, especially in isolated locations.

Tigray continues to experience instability following years of conflict. Although peace efforts have taken place, renewed clashes and unresolved tensions continue to create uncertainty.

Central regions including Gambella and parts of Oromia also face risks linked to violence, armed groups, kidnapping and civil unrest.

Ethiopia Border Regions Remain High Risk for Travellers

Border areas across Ethiopia require special attention because of armed activity, criminal networks, terrorism threats and landmine risks.

Canada advises avoiding several border zones, including areas near Eritrea, Somalia, Kenya, Sudan and South Sudan.

The Ethiopia–Eritrea border remains heavily militarized, while tensions could escalate quickly.

Near Kenya, Somalia and South Sudan, risks include armed groups, kidnapping, banditry and violent clashes.

Travellers entering remote regions should use official border crossings, avoid isolated routes and remain alert to local security updates.

Ethiopia Fuel Shortages Add Pressure on Travel and Transport Networks

Beyond security concerns, Ethiopia is also facing fuel shortages that could directly affect travellers.

Long queues at fuel stations have created disruptions affecting transport services, telecommunications and other essential systems.

Visitors travelling across Ethiopia may experience delays involving taxis, road transport and domestic movement.

Travellers are advised to allow extra time for journeys, maintain fuel supplies when travelling by road and prepare for possible service interruptions.

Ethiopia Crime, Cyber Risks and Documentation Rules for Visitors

Crime remains another concern in Ethiopia. Petty crime including pickpocketing, bag theft and mobile phone theft can occur in crowded locations such as markets, tourist areas, transport hubs and hotels.

Travellers should protect passports, avoid displaying expensive items and remain cautious in busy public spaces.

Cybercrime is also a concern. Criminals may target public Wi-Fi networks to steal personal information or financial details.

Visitors should avoid suspicious online links, use secure internet connections and be cautious when sharing travel plans online.

Passport requirements are also important. Canadian travellers must have passports valid for at least six months beyond their expected departure date from Ethiopia. Visitors must ensure their passport is stamped on arrival and avoid overstaying their permitted period.

Namibia Requires Increased Caution as Crime Remains Main Traveller Concern

Namibia remains a popular destination for wildlife, desert landscapes and adventure tourism, but Canada advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution because of crime risks.

The main concerns involve theft, robbery and personal safety, especially in urban areas and tourist locations.

Petty crime such as pickpocketing, bag snatching and mobile phone theft occurs frequently.

Travellers are advised to remain careful in crowded shopping areas, tourist attractions, fuel stations and ATM locations.

Namibia Border Areas and Road Travel Need Extra Preparation

The Namibia–Angola border requires additional caution due to risks linked to banditry and poaching activity.

The border is not always clearly marked, and travellers should only cross through official border points.

Although Namibia completed major demining efforts decades ago, some unexploded ordnance risks remain in specific border areas.

Adventure travellers exploring remote regions should stay on main roads, carry sufficient supplies and avoid isolated routes.

Namibia Crime Prevention Advice for International Tourists

Violent crime, including muggings, burglaries and carjackings, occurs particularly in Windhoek.

Visitors should keep accommodation doors and windows locked, avoid isolated locations and keep valuables hidden.

Travellers driving through Namibia should avoid stopping in unsafe areas and should remain cautious when approached by strangers on roads.

Credit card fraud is another concern, particularly in some hotels and lodges.

Visitors should keep cards visible during transactions, avoid suspicious payment devices and regularly check financial statements.

African Travel Landscape Shows Why Preparation Matters More Than Ever

The latest Canadian advisory covering Rwanda, Ethiopia and Namibia highlights the importance of understanding local conditions before travelling across Africa.

Each destination presents a different situation.

Rwanda remains broadly stable but requires caution near sensitive borders. Ethiopia faces complex security challenges affecting multiple regions. Namibia remains open to tourism but requires stronger personal safety awareness.

For international travellers, preparation remains the key factor. Checking official travel guidance, securing documents, planning routes carefully and understanding regional risks can help create safer and more informed journeys across the continent.