The UK has issued a security alert to its citizens in Tanzania following large-scale disruptions to travel, significant internet connectivity issues, and violent protests linked to the country's ongoing election unrest.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 30, the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warned British nationals about the deteriorating security situation in the East African nation, where general elections held on October 29 have yet to conclude.
"Large-scale disruption to travel, significant issues with internet connectivity & some protests turning violent," the UK in Tanzania noted in its advisory.
British nationals have been advised to shelter in place, adhere to the curfew imposed by the Tanzanian authorities, follow the advice of local officials, and avoid all demonstrations, rallies, and large crowds.
The FCDO has also updated its travel advice for Tanzania, providing information on road closures, transport cancellations, protests, and internet connectivity challenges facing the country.
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Additionally, the UK government has advised against all but essential travel to within 20 kilometers of the Tanzanian border with Cabo Delgado Province in Mozambique, specifically in the Mtwara Region, due to attacks by groups linked with Islamic extremism.
The warnings come as Tanzania grapples with widespread unrest following general elections conducted on October 29. The polls have been characterized by violent protests, allegations of electoral fraud, and a significant crackdown on dissent.
Following protests and unrest in various parts of the country, Tanzanian police announced a nationwide curfew effective from 6pm local time on October 29, which remains in place.
Protests are ongoing across the country, with some demonstrations turning violent. There have been reports of live fire in major cities including Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mwanza, and Mbeye.
The curfew is being strictly enforced, with widespread road blockades and closures reported nationwide.
Most international flights have been cancelled to and from Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam.
Arusha International Airport and Kilimanjaro International Airport are closed, and some international and domestic flights to and from Zanzibar airport have been cancelled. Ferry services between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar have been suspended.
The electoral process has been marred by controversy, with the main opposition party Chadema boycotting the elections under its 'No Reforms, No Election' campaign. The party has accused the electoral system of being biased in favor of the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party and demanded fundamental reforms.
Chadema leader Tundu Lissu was arrested on treason charges in April 2025 and barred from participating in the polls.
Similarly, ACT-Wazalendo's presidential candidate Luhaga Mpina was disqualified by the Independent National Electoral Commission over alleged procedural violations, leaving both main opposition parties without representation on the ballot.
The United States Embassy in Tanzania has also issued a security alert, advising American citizens to shelter in place and avoid demonstrations as security forces respond to the unrest.
Reports indicate that protests have erupted in major urban centers, with demonstrators clashing with police who have responded with tear gas, live ammunition, and water cannons.
Polling centers were set ablaze in several locations, and at least one police vehicle was torched.
In Zanzibar's Stone Town, protesters were seen dismantling billboards of the ruling party and chanting anti-government slogans.
In the Kagera region, where 17 people were arrested before voting began, protests escalated into violent confrontations between youth and security forces.
The situation has been further complicated by an apparent nationwide internet shutdown, with independent internet observatory NetBlocks reporting disruptions to digital communications just as voting and protests intensified.
