The United States Embassy in Dar es Salaam has issued a new security alert warning its citizens of possible nationwide anti-government demonstrations in the coming days.
In a notice dated Friday, November 28, the embassy said demonstrations have been planned for December 9, but cautioned that they could begin sooner.
It explained that its alert is informed by the unrest that followed the October 29 elections, saying that period saw significant damage and disruption across the country.
"There are ongoing calls for nationwide anti-government demonstrations on December 9, but protest activity could begin as early as December 5.
"Recent unrest around Tanzania’s October 29 elections resulted in destruction of public infrastructure, violence against civilians, internet shutdowns, and major travel disruptions," the notice read.
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According to the advisory, anyone travelling to Tanzania in the coming weeks should prepare for widespread disruptions, including movement restrictions and possible shutdowns of key services.
"Travelers to Tanzania over the next several weeks should be prepared for potential disruptions, including the possibility of unrest, nation-wide curfews, an internet blackout, cancellation of ferries to Zanzibar, cancellation of international flights, and roadblocks enacted to enforce strict movement controls," the notice added.
The embassy also noted that foreigners in Tanzania have been receiving increased attention from security agencies following the recent unrest, including checks on their electronic devices.
"Following recent unrest, foreign nationals have experienced increased attention from local security authorities, and security forces have searched electronics for evidence of connection to unrest or politically sensitive content," the notice further read.
It further highlighted that Tanzanian authorities have warned the public against sharing material that could be considered alarming or politically sensitive.
"Police have reminded the public that under Tanzanian law, the sharing of pictures or videos that may cause panic is a criminal offense. There are reports of security authorities searching electronic devices for politically sensitive content," the notice concluded.
The embassy advised foreign nationals to take precautionary steps during any potential unrest, including avoiding demonstrations, keeping essential supplies and following curfews.
They have also been advised to adhere to local laws, confirming flights by phone before going to the airport, and reviewing personal safety plans.
Earlier this month, the embassy warned of worsening conditions in parts of Dar es Salaam, citing shortages of basic supplies as well as communication disruptions.
In an update on Monday, November 3, the embassy said basic supplies such as food, fuel, and cash were running low in some areas and that flight operations had also been affected.
"Stores of food, fuel, and cash are running low in certain areas. International airports are operational, but international flight operations are intermittent.
"Confirm your flight via telephone prior to traveling to the airport. Be prepared to pass through checkpoints on main roads to the airports," the alert read.
The embassy also reminded U.S. citizens and residents to observe the ongoing nationwide curfew and movement restrictions.
"A nationwide curfew is still in effect from 6:00 pm to 6:00 am. In certain localities of Dar es Salaam, security forces are reportedly enforcing stricter controls on movement.
"Internet access continues to be blocked, making communication and electronic payments difficult," the alert further read.
