The United States Embassy in Tanzania has issued a security alert to its citizens, warning of possible unrest ahead of planned nationwide anti-government demonstrations scheduled for December 9.
The Embassy cautioned that protest activity could begin as early as December 5, urging travelers and residents to exercise heightened vigilance.
According to the alert, recent unrest following Tanzania’s October 29 elections resulted in destruction of public infrastructure, violence against civilians, internet shutdowns and major travel disruptions, conditions that could re-emerge in the coming days.
The Embassy warned that travelers to Tanzania over the next several weeks should be prepared for significant disruptions, including the possibility of nationwide curfews, an internet blackout, cancellation of ferries to Zanzibar, cancellation of international flights and roadblocks enforcing strict movement controls.
It further noted that foreign nationals have recently experienced increased scrutiny from local security authorities.
Security forces have reportedly searched electronic devices for politically sensitive content, with police reminding the public that sharing images or videos that may cause panic is a criminal offense under Tanzanian law.
The Embassy added that its ability to assist Americans in danger may be limited in the event of widespread unrest.
U.S. citizens were advised to avoid demonstrations and crowds, prepare emergency supplies of food, water, medication and fuel, and adhere to any announced curfews.
Travelers were also urged to verify flight status by phone before heading to airports and to review personal safety plans.
The alert provided contact details for the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam and encouraged Americans to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Programme (STEP) to receive real-time updates.
For assistance, the U.S embassy can be reached through the U.S. Embassy Dar es Salaam, 686 Old Bagamoyo Road, Msasani, P.O. Box 9123, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Telephone: +255-22-229-4000.
Additional support is available through the U.S. State Department’s Consular Affairs lines at 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444.
Travelers were also encouraged to visit the Embassy’s website and enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Programme (STEP) for real-time alerts.
This came on the week that the European Parliament approved a resolution to cut funding to Tanzania, citing post-election killings, a deteriorating human rights situation and the imprisonment of opposition leader Tundu Lissu.
The EU MPs adopted the motion with 539 votes in favour, none against and 27 abstentions, potentially blocking a €156 million (Sh23,444,780,783.77) disbursement under the European Union's 2025 action plan for the country.
Tanzania reacted to the move with foreign affairs minister Mahmoud Kombo urging the European Parliament to consider the country's position on key issues as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties.
Tanzania has already cancelled public celebrations of its Independence Day on the 9th, following fears of fresh violence.
