Editor's Review

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed concern over the situation in Tanzania. 

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed concern over the situation in Tanzania following reports of deaths and injuries during ongoing demonstrations across parts of the country. 

In a statement on Friday, October 31, Guterres urged all parties involved to exercise restraint, avoid violence, and engage in dialogue.

"I am deeply concerned by the situation in Tanzania, including reports of deaths and injuries during demonstrations. I call on all to exercise restraint, reject violence, and engage in inclusive and constructive dialogue to prevent further escalation," he said.

Guterres further reaffirmed the United Nations’ readiness to support Tanzania’s efforts toward peace and stability.

"The UN stands ready to support efforts aimed at fostering dialogue, strengthening democratic governance, and promoting sustainable peace in Tanzania," he added.

The demonstrations, which have reportedly turned violent in some areas, have drawn growing international attention.

For instance, in a statement on Thursday, October 30, the US Embassy in Tanzania advised American Citizens to shelter in place.

The embassy cautioned US citizens against traveling by road, noting that the ongoing protests in Tanzania have led to incidents of violence and the erection of roadblocks.

"The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens to shelter in place. There are reports of country-wide demonstrations resulting in outbreaks of violence and roadblocks. Travel by road poses a significant risk," read part of the advisory.

File image of a vandalized building in Tanzania

The US Embassy also pointed out that internet access has become intermittent, severely affecting communication and access to information.

"Many international flights have been canceled; confirm your flight via telephone prior to traveling to the airport," the embassy stated.

Further, the embassy advised U.S. citizens to avoid demonstrations and crowds, maintain a low profile, monitor local media for updates, and be aware of their surroundings.

The Americans were also asked to check in with friends and family to let them know they are safe.

At the same time, the United Kingdom (UK) government also issued a safety advisory to its citizens in the country.

In a statement on Thursday, the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warned British nationals about the deteriorating security situation in the East African nation.

"Large-scale disruption to travel, significant issues with internet connectivity & some protests turning violent," the UK in Tanzania noted in its advisory.

British nationals were 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.

At the height of the protests, Tanzanian Government Spokesperson Gerson Msigwa directed all public servants to work from home.

In a statement on Wednesday, October 29, Msigwa said only employees whose duties require their physical presence at the workplace should report to work.

"Following a security advisory issued by the Police Force to residents of Dar es Salaam, the Government directs that tomorrow, October 30, 2025, all public servants in the country shall work from home, except for those whose duties require their physical presence at their workplaces, as instructed by their respective employers," read the statement in part.

Msigwa also urged employers in the private sector to take precautions and allow their staff to work remotely.

“Additionally, employers in the private sector are advised to observe this precaution and allow their employees to work from home as well,” he stated.

The Tanzanian Government Spokesperson further asked citizens who do not have urgent reasons to leave their homes to remain indoors.