09 Apr 2019 | 09:43 AM UTC
Guinea: Further protests likely in Kamsar (Boké region) over electricity shortage
Protests in Kamsar (Boké region) over lack of electricity disrupt traffic on April 8; situation normalized but further outages and protests possible
Event
Protests erupted in the mining town of Kamsar (Boké region) on Monday, April 8, to denounce recurrent electricity shortages. Traffic was significantly disrupted as protesters erected roadblocks across the city. Demonstrators have vowed to continue their protests until the issue is addressed. Further protests are likely to take place in the coming hours and days.
Context
Fewer than one in five Guineans have access to electricity, leading to lacklustre economic development. Areas connected to the electrical grid still experience regular blackouts, including areas in the capital, Conakry. Protests are common during electricity shortages, often leading to the obstruction of streets and railroads. In 2012, a riot in the town of Kamsar lead to one death and a temporary shutdown of local mining operations.
Advice
Individuals in Guinea are advised to remain vigilant and avoid protests at all times. Potential power outages should be anticipated (keep devices fully charged when possible, etc.).
