Tanzania is currently facing a serious crisis marked by shortages of food, fuel, and money, according to a report from the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The situation has worsened following violent protests that broke out on Wednesday during the country’s general elections.
In response to the growing instability, the United Kingdom has raised its travel advisory for Tanzania, urging its citizens to avoid travelling to the East African nation unless absolutely necessary.
In an update released on Sunday, November 2, the FCDO stated that Tanzania is experiencing severe shortages of basic commodities and financial services. The disruption has deeply affected daily life, leaving thousands of people struggling to access essential goods and survive amid the chaos.
The British Embassy in Tanzania also reported that the situation was worsened by the Tanzanian government’s decision to shut down internet services across the country.
The blackout has restricted access to information and essential online services such as banking, communication, and transport updates. “The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Tanzania due to ongoing unrest and disruptions following the October 29 election.
There are widespread shortages of food, fuel, and cash, made worse by the lack of internet connectivity,” the UK government stated.
The advisory further revealed that major roads across the country have been blocked, and many transport routes remain closed due to heightened security and demonstrations.
International travel has also been severely affected, with numerous flights cancelled to and from Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam.
Although Arusha and Kilimanjaro International Airports remain partially operational, the UK noted that several international and domestic flights to and from Zanzibar have been temporarily suspended.
Additionally, ferry operations between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar have been halted, while Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) train services have also come to a standstill.
The UK government has advised British nationals currently stranded in Tanzania to remain indoors whenever possible, observe curfew hours, and stay informed through trusted local sources.
Travellers are also encouraged to follow instructions from local authorities to ensure their safety.
This warning comes just a day after Tanzania’s electoral commission announced President Samia Suluhu Hassan as the winner of the October 29 general elections, securing nearly 98 percent of the total votes cast.
President Samia, who assumed office in 2021 after the death of her predecessor John Magufuli, has now earned a second five-year term in office.
However, the opposition has strongly contested the results, claiming the election process was unfair and lacked transparency.
Opposition leaders allege that key candidates were barred from participating and that widespread vote rigging took place, sparking nationwide anger and protests.
The ongoing unrest, coupled with economic disruptions and communication blackouts, has created uncertainty and fear among citizens and foreigners alike, as Tanzania struggles to restore stability and essential services.
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