UK Issues Security Alert Against Tanzania

The United Kingdom (UK) has issued a security alert to its citizens in Tanzania amid widespread unrest, violent protests, and a near-total internet blackout linked to the country’s disputed general elections.

In an advisory released on Thursday, October 30, the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warned of a “deteriorating security situation” following the October 29 vote, which remains unresolved.

“Large-scale disruption to travel, significant issues with internet connectivity & some protests turning violent,” the UK in Tanzania stated.

British nationals have been told to shelter in place, comply with the government-imposed curfew, follow instructions from local authorities, and avoid all rallies and large gatherings.

The FCDO has also updated its travel guidance, highlighting road closures, flight cancellations, and continued internet disruptions across the country.

Additionally, London has warned against all but essential travel within 20 kilometers of the Tanzanian border with Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado Province, citing the threat of attacks from extremist groups operating in the region.

The alert follows days of escalating unrest after the October 29 elections, marred by violent protests, allegations of rigging, and a government crackdown on dissent. Tanzanian police imposed a 6 p.m. curfew, which remains in effect, with reports of heavy enforcement and extensive roadblocks.

Clashes have been reported in several major cities — including Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mwanza, and Mbeya — with eyewitnesses claiming security forces have used live ammunition.

Most international flights have been suspended, with Nyerere International Airport operating on limited capacity, while Kilimanjaro and Arusha airports remain closed. Ferry services between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar have also been halted.

The election itself has been controversial. The opposition party Chadema boycotted the polls under its “No Reforms, No Election” campaign, accusing the electoral system of favoring the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM).

Chadema leader Tundu Lissu, previously arrested on treason charges, was barred from contesting. ACT-Wazalendo’s presidential candidate, Luhaga Mpina, was similarly disqualified over alleged procedural violations, effectively sidelining the main opposition voices.

This latest alert comes after the United States Embassy in Tanzania also issued a security warning, urging Americans to stay indoors and avoid protests. Reports indicated violent clashes nationwide, with police firing tear gas, water cannons, and live rounds to disperse crowds.

Polling stations have been torched in multiple locations, and a police vehicle was set on fire. In Zanzibar’s Stone Town, protesters were seen tearing down ruling party billboards and chanting anti-government slogans.

In the Kagera region, where 17 arrests were made before voting began, confrontations between youth and police turned violent.

The situation has been compounded by a nationwide internet shutdown, with monitoring group NetBlocks confirming widespread connectivity disruptions as protests and violence escalated.

Earlier, Kenyans were warned against participating in protests taking place in neighbouring Tanzania, with Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr Raymond Omollo, expressing confidence that Tanzania, as a friendly neighbour, is capable of managing its internal affairs, saying it wishes the country well as it works through its domestic challenges.

This is after protests erupted at the Namanga border, where several Kenyans were reportedly blocked from crossing into Tanzania to join the ongoing demonstrations triggered by Wednesday’s disputed election.