When you’re traveling across the diverse and beautiful continent of Africa, knowing how to stay safe is just as important as planning your itinerary. While many travelers prepare with vaccines, travel insurance, and packing lists, understanding emergency contact numbers in Africa is often overlooked — until it’s too late.
This guide offers an essential reference of Africa emergency numbers by country, highlighting who to call and when, while sharing insights into the emergency infrastructure across the continent. Whether you’re on safari in Kenya, hiking in Morocco, or exploring the coasts of South Africa, this guide ensures you’re not caught off guard.
Why Having Africa Emergency Numbers Matters
Travelers often assume that dialing 911 or 112 will summon help no matter where they are in the world. Unfortunately, emergency systems vary drastically from country to country. In Africa, emergency services are not always centralized and may differ depending on the region, city, or even the provider.
Knowing the right number to call can save precious minutes — and lives. In some nations, emergency calls go directly to hospitals, in others to police or civil defense authorities.
Common Emergency Numbers Used Across Africa
Here are some of the most frequently used emergency numbers that work across various African countries:
- 112 – Used by some mobile networks for general emergencies
- 911 – Limited use, mostly in regions with American influence
- 999 – Popular in countries like Nigeria and Kenya
- 122 or 10177 – Found in Southern Africa for ambulance services
- 123 or 112 – Often supported by GSM mobile networks
⚠️ Tip: Before traveling to any African country, check the updated local emergency numbers — they can change and sometimes vary by province or operator.
Country-by-Country Africa Emergency Numbers
Below are selected emergency contact numbers in African countries, categorized by primary services:
South Africa Emergency Numbers
- Police: 10111
- Ambulance & Fire: 10177
- Mobile emergency: 112 (works across all networks)
Egypt Emergency Numbers
- Police: 122
- Ambulance: 123
- Fire: 180
- Tourist Police: 126
Kenya Emergency Numbers
- General emergencies: 999 / 112
- Ambulance (Red Cross): 1199
- Police: 911 (used in some areas, but 999 is more reliable)
Nigeria Emergency Numbers
- General emergencies: 112 / 122
- Police: 199
- Fire: 112
- Ambulance: 123
Morocco Emergency Numbers
- Police: 19 (urban) / 177 (rural)
- Ambulance & Fire: 15
- Gendarmerie: 177
Uganda Emergency Numbers
- Police: 112 / 999
- Ambulance: 912
Tanzania Emergency Numbers
- Police: 112 / 999
- Medical emergencies: 114
Zimbabwe Emergency Numbers
- Police: 995
- Fire: 993
- Ambulance: 994
Emergency Services Infrastructure in Africa
Access to emergency services in Africa varies depending on the region. Urban centers like Johannesburg, Nairobi, or Cairo often have structured systems in place with trained responders and functioning hotlines. However, rural and remote areas may lack reliable networks, medical facilities, or even roads.
Some countries are improving emergency response through mobile tech platforms and public-private partnerships, but connectivity, infrastructure, and awareness still pose challenges.
Tips for Staying Safe in Africa
Here are some safety travel tips you can follow alongside saving emergency numbers:
- Save local emergency numbers in your phone before traveling.
- Use a travel app that allows one-touch dialing to local authorities.
- Let someone know your daily travel plans, especially in remote areas.
- Stay near places with mobile network coverage.
- Consider travel medical evacuation services for extended or remote travel.
- Always carry a local SIM card or roaming-enabled device.
For Tourists & Expats: Stay Ahead of Emergencies
If you’re a tourist, expat, or digital nomad, it’s crucial to prepare for more than just sightseeing. In case of health crises, theft, car accidents, or natural disasters, being able to call the right number immediately is your best safety net.
Final Thoughts: Knowledge That Could Save a Life
Africa is an incredible destination with unmatched cultural depth and natural beauty. But as with travel anywhere, preparation is the key to safety. Having the correct Africa emergency numbers by country on hand is not just practical — it’s essential.
Keep this list saved or printed in your travel kit, and share it with fellow travelers. Preparedness can make all the difference in a critical situation.
Shared with care by The Inspiring Insight — your guide to safer, smarter travel.
