The United States government has issued a travel advisory warning its citizens to avoid traveling to Tanzania due to expected nationwide anti-government demonstrations.
In a statement released on Monday, December 1, the US said the protests are planned for Tuesday, December 9, but noted that unrest might begin as early as Friday, December 5.
According to the advisory, the protests could lead to major disruptions across the country, including travel delays, curfews, internet shutdowns, cancelled ferry services to Zanzibar, cancelled international flights, and possible roadblocks. The US urged its citizens to reconsider any travel plans to Tanzania during this period.
The warning follows the unrest witnessed after Tanzania’s October 29 general elections. During those disturbances, public infrastructure was destroyed, civilians were attacked, and the internet was shut down nationwide.
The US government explained that foreigners were also affected during the previous unrest. Some were questioned by security officers and had their electronic devices checked for politically sensitive content. Tanzanian police had earlier warned that sharing images or videos that may cause public panic is a criminal offense.
Because the US Embassy in Tanzania has limited ability to assist citizens in times of widespread unrest, American travelers were urged to take safety precautions. These include staying away from demonstrations, avoiding large crowds, and storing enough water, medication, food, fuel, and cash in case they are required to remain indoors.
The advisory also asked Americans to follow any curfews announced by the Tanzanian authorities, obey local laws, and confirm flight schedules by phone before traveling to the airport.
This latest alert comes as Tanzania braces for fresh political demonstrations, heightening fears of renewed unrest and travel interruptions in the coming weeks.
