Africa

Ethiopia

Location

Eastern Africa, west of Somalia.

There is a high threat of terrorism. Attacks could be against civilian targets including places frequented by foreigners. We advise against all travel to the Gambella Region at any time. Banditry and theft is a problem. Avoid travel after dark. Travelling alone is discouraged. Local militia groups, weapons (various), ballistics danger areas, mines, booby traps, vehicle security, personal security, ambushes, kidnappings, bandits / corruption, gunfire, legal / illegal checkpoints, armed robberies, general travel, navigation, off road driving, building / office security, hot weather injuries, personal hygiene, sanitation / sterilisation, clothing & equipment, emergency first aid, helicopter safety, terrorism, cultures / customs, communications, emergency shelters.

Use bottled water only.

High plateau with central mountain range divided by Great Rift Valley.

Tropical monsoon with wide topographic-induced variation.

Geologically active Great Rift Valley susceptible to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions; frequent droughts.

Altitude sickness (Addis Ababa is 2,800 m above seal level), bacterial and protozoal diarrhoea, bilharzia, cholera, cutaneous leishmaniasis, hepatitis A and E, HIV/AIDS, malaria, meningococcal meningitis, rabies, schistosomiasis, typhoid fever, yellow fever. Carry a comprehensive medical pack. Anyone with a heart condition should seek advice.
Hospital: Black Lion Hospital, Addis Ababa. Tel: 1-511211

Deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification; water shortages in some areas from water-intensive farming and poor management.

If you intend to travel you should keep abreast of local / international news. Check with your embassy prior to the journey. Avoid driving after dark. Vehicles often have no lights and livestock may be roaming the roads.

Hostile Environments and Emergency First Aid Training (HEFAT®) (5 days)
Centurion's flagship Hostile Environments and Emergency First Aid Training (HEFAT®) course is for people who operate world wide, particularly in areas where there may be personal health or safety concerns. It is extremely effective for "frontline" organisations.

For more in-depth general information please download our Preparation and Training document.