The United Kingdom has elevated its travel advisory against Tanzania following reports of widespread unrest, severe shortages, and service disruptions across the country.
In its latest update issued on Sunday, November 2, the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) warned that the East African nation is experiencing a significant shortage of food, fuel, and cash services, leaving thousands of residents vulnerable.
According to the British Embassy in Tanzania, the situation has been worsened by the government’s decision to shut down the internet, cutting off access to crucial communication and banking services. The UK government noted that the unrest stems from post-election protests after the October 29 polls.
“FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Tanzania. This is due to disruption and unrest following the 29 October election. There are shortages of food, fuel and cash, compounded by the lack of internet services,” the UK advisory read.
The report highlights widespread road blockades and closures nationwide. International travel has also been heavily disrupted, with flights cancelled at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. Although Arusha and Kilimanjaro airports remain partially operational, several domestic and international flights to and from Zanzibar have been suspended.
Additionally, there are no ferries operating between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, and Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) services have been halted.
The FCDO has urged UK nationals in Tanzania to limit movement, obey curfews, and follow local authority guidance, warning that the situation remains volatile.
The unrest erupted shortly after the Tanzania Electoral Commission declared President Samia Suluhu Hassan the winner of the October 29 election with nearly 98 percent of the vote. Opposition parties have rejected the results, alleging massive vote rigging and exclusion of key opposition figures, sparking nationwide protests and escalating tensions.
