🎯 Introduction: Navigating Chaos with Caution
Across Africa, civil unrest has emerged as a recurring feature in times of political uncertainty, economic hardship, or social injustice. From the bustling streets of Lagos during #EndSARS protests to Khartoum’s resistance marches, Kinshasa’s opposition rallies, and unrest in Johannesburg townships, civilians often find themselves in the eye of the storm.
This guide is not about fear—it’s about empowerment. Whether you’re a student, commuter, aid worker, or parent, knowing how to move smartly and stay safe during civil unrest can be life-saving.
I. Understanding Civil Unrest: Know What You’re Facing
Unrest varies in form and severity. Recognizing what’s unfolding can help you make better movement decisions.
🔍 Types of Civil Unrest:
- Peaceful Protests: Organized demonstrations with minimal confrontation. Still unpredictable.
- Police Crackdowns: Use of force, arrests, roadblocks—can escalate quickly.
- Riots/Violent Demonstrations: Looting, arson, fighting—often hijacked by non-protest actors.
- Localized Insurgencies: Armed groups operating in urban spaces or border towns.
⚠️ Early Warning Signs:
- Social media chatter or viral protest calls
- Unusual police/military presence
- Road closures or sudden crowd formation
- Government-imposed curfews or communication blackouts
Case Example:
During the 2021 looting in South Africa, some residents escaped mob violence simply by recognizing early signs of road congestion and retreating before the chaos hit their neighborhood.
II. Pre-Movement Risk Assessment: Don’t Just Move—Think First
Before stepping out, take a moment to gather intelligence.
🔎 Steps for Safe Assessment:
- Check Trusted Local News: Radio, TV, and community WhatsApp groups often provide live updates.
- Identify Flashpoints: Government buildings, markets, transportation hubs, and military zones are often hot spots.
- Use Mapping Tools: Apps like Google Maps or Waze may show real-time congestion (an indirect unrest signal).
- Crowdsource Wisely: Avoid rumors; stick to verified sources like local Red Cross alerts or neighborhood watch platforms.
Tip: In cities like Abuja or Addis Ababa, avoid main roads near Parliament or national squares during major political days.
III. Movement Essentials: Gear, Appearance, and Discretion
What you carry—and wear—can mean the difference between safety and suspicion.
🎒 What to Carry:
- Phone (fully charged + power bank)
- National ID or work badge
- Water, light snack
- Cash (small denominations)
- Handkerchief or mask (for smoke/tear gas)
👕 What to Wear:
- Neutral clothing (no slogans, political colors, or uniforms)
- Comfortable shoes (you might need to run or walk long distances)
- Avoid jewelry or flashy gadgets
🚫 Blend In, Don’t Stand Out:
- No branded gear
- Avoid filming or livestreaming crowds—it can provoke mobs or security forces
- Walk with purpose, not panic
IV. Safe Transit Techniques: Moving Through Danger Zones
When unrest breaks out, your route matters more than speed.
🛣️ Best Practices:
- Use Side Streets: Main roads may be barricaded or militarized.
- Avoid Open Spaces: Plazas and intersections are protest flashpoints.
- Move in Groups (If Possible): Safer than being isolated, but avoid large crowds.
- Know Checkpoints: Understand the difference between official and rogue checkpoints.
👀 Crowd Behavior Clues:
- If a crowd is running—don’t run without knowing why.
- Loud noises or chants increasing suddenly may signal escalation.
- Observe police posture—helmets on and shields up? Tension is rising.
Real-Life Tip: During protests in Kampala, locals used building alleys and rooftop paths to safely bypass roadblocks.
V. Digital Security While on the Move: Stay Smart, Stay Private
Unrest zones often double as digital surveillance zones. Your phone can be both a lifeline and a liability.
🔐 Mobile Safety Tips:
- Turn Off Geolocation
- Avoid Posting Live Updates: Could reveal your position or agitate attackers.
- Use Secure Messaging Apps: Signal, Telegram with disappearing messages.
- VPN Use: Especially in countries with internet restrictions or surveillance.
📱 Emergency Contacts:
- Program quick-dial for family, local police, or emergency hotlines.
- Share real-time location with a trusted friend before setting out (then turn off GPS).
VI. What to Do if Confronted or Trapped
Being surrounded by angry mobs or aggressive forces? Your goal: De-escalate and exit.
🧠 Confrontation Tips:
- Keep Hands Visible: Avoid sudden movements.
- Speak Calmly: Don’t argue or provoke.
- Follow Instructions: Even if unjust, your priority is survival, not justice at that moment.
- Look for Safe Exit Points: Shops, alleys, or any structure with a back exit.
🆘 If Trapped:
- Shelter Indoors: Lock doors, stay away from windows, conserve phone battery.
- Signal Quietly: Use coded text messages or voice notes.
VII. Family Coordination Plan: Safety is a Team Sport
Whether you live with children, elderly, or dependents, a plan is essential.
📋 Family Safety Checklist:
- Agree on a meeting point in case phones die.
- Establish a communication chain (e.g., neighbor, teacher, local contact).
- Create go-bags with medicine, documents, torchlight, and emergency numbers.
- Keep printed maps in case digital tools fail.
VIII. After Unrest: Psychological Recovery and Safe Reporting
The end of unrest doesn’t mean the end of its impact.
💬 Mental Health First:
- Don’t suppress trauma—talk to friends, local counselors, or NGOs.
- Help children process events through conversation or drawing.
📝 Reporting Safely:
- Avoid naming others online—mob justice can follow.
- Share verified photos/videos with trusted media or human rights bodies, not public pages.
- Document your experience for future preparedness.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Stay Aware. Stay Calm. Stay Human.
Civil unrest is not just about politics—it’s about people. The more we prepare ourselves, the less vulnerable we become. With the right knowledge, calm thinking, and smart movement, we can navigate even the most unpredictable urban crises with courage and clarity.
“Survival is not just about instinct—it’s about strategy. And strategy begins with awareness.”
— Africa Center for Counter Terrorism
