About Ethiopia's Correctional System
Ethiopia's correctional system is managed by the Ethiopian Federal Prison Commission. For inmate searches, use the official contacts listed below or contact the facility directly using the phone numbers on this page. Where available, the facility listings below include addresses, inmate capacity, and descriptive information.
For US citizens detained in Ethiopia, contact US Embassy Ethiopia at +251 11 130 6000 immediately, or call the US State Department Citizens Emergency Center at 1-888-407-4747 from the US.
Ethiopia Resources & Legal Services
Key Ethiopia Prison Contacts
| Agency / Contact | Location | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ethiopian Federal Prison Commission | Ethiopia | +251-11-551-0089 | Visit Site |
| US Embassy Ethiopia | Ethiopia | +251 11 130 6000 | Visit Site |
| US State Dept Emergency (from US) | Washington DC | 1-888-407-4747 | Visit Site |
Showing 4 facilities in Ethiopia
Kilinto Prison
Facility
Closed
Ethiopia's largest prison. Located in Kilinto area south of Addis Ababa. Houses dangerous criminals terrorists and political prisoners. Has been the site of a major fire in September 2016 that killed 23 inmates.
Maekelawi Federal Police Crime Investigation Center
Facility
Closed
Ethiopia's main political detention centre. Known as the Dark Place. Used to hold journalists opposition politicians and human rights defenders. Documented by Human Rights Watch for systematic torture. Officially closed in 2019 but replaced by other facilities.
Gondar Prison
Facility
Closed
Regional prison in Gondar in the Amhara Region. Houses prisoners from the northern highlands of Ethiopia.
Ziway Prison
Facility
Closed
Large prison in Oromia Region. One of Ethiopia's major correctional facilities. Houses long-term sentenced offenders.
Ethiopia Prison FAQ
Browse the facility listings on this page to find the specific institution, then contact them directly using the phone number listed. For US citizens detained in Ethiopia, contact US Embassy Ethiopia at +251 11 130 6000 immediately.
Contact US Embassy Ethiopia at +251 11 130 6000 immediately, or call the US State Department Citizens Emergency Center at 1-888-407-4747 from the US. Consular officers can visit detained Americans, provide lists of local attorneys, and notify family members.
Visitation rules vary significantly by facility and security level in Ethiopia. You will typically need to be on an approved visitor list, present valid government-issued photo ID, and comply with the facility's dress code. Contact the specific facility directly using the phone number listed on this page to confirm current visitation hours and requirements.
Contact Ethiopian Bar Association for referrals to qualified criminal defense attorneys in Ethiopia. The US Embassy can also provide a list of local attorneys. You can also find a criminal lawyer through our directory.
Each Ethiopia facility has its own approved methods for receiving inmate funds. Contact the facility directly using the phone numbers listed on this page for current accepted payment methods, deposit limits, and procedures.