The US Embassy in Tanzania has issued a security alert for US citizens and travellers, warning of possible nationwide anti-government demonstrations scheduled for December 9, with protest activity potentially beginning as early as December 5.
The alert comes after weeks of tensions following the disputed October 29 election and growing calls for accountability over alleged abuses and deaths.
“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 advisory reads.
The planned demonstrations are being organised by a coalition of civic activists and opposition political actors demanding transparency, justice for alleged post-election killings and respect for human rights.
Organisers say they aim to press the government to investigate and account for the recent unrest.
The authorities in Dar es Salaam have not yet confirmed whether the protests will be permitted — but police have repeatedly warned that “unauthorised gatherings will not be tolerated.”
According to the Embassy’s warning, the post-election unrest has already resulted in destruction of public infrastructure, violence against civilians, internet shutdowns and major travel disruptions.
The alert notes that foreign nationals have recently been subjected to heightened scrutiny by security forces, with reports of authorities searching electronics for politically sensitive content.
It also reminds that under Tanzanian law sharing photos or videos that may “cause panic” could be a criminal offence.
Travellers to Tanzania should prepare for potential disruptions over the coming weeks. These might include nationwide curfews, internet blackouts, cancellation of ferry services to Zanzibar, cancellation or delays of international flights, and roadblocks enforcing strict movement controls.
“The Embassy’s ability to assist travellers in danger is further limited during a period of unrest,” the alert warned.
It urges foreign nationals, including Americans, to avoid protests and large crowds; store water, food, fuel, medication and cash in case of shelter-in-place orders; comply with any curfews; and regularly confirm travel plans before heading to airports.
Travellers are further advised to review their personal safety plan and stay aware of local laws and developments.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan won a highly disputed presidential election with 97% but the voting itself took place amid tension as protests flared during the process.
She was hastily sworn-in in a ceremony closed to public.
Samia's government has since admitted there were casualties but refused to release the figures to the public. She also had treason charges against thousands dropped in an attempt to mend fences after admitting the clashes had damaged Tanzania's long-standing reputation of peace and calm.
The United Nations has voiced alarm over the unfolding crisis in Tanzania, calling for urgent action after the disputed October 29 elections produced widespread reports of killings, disappearances and arrests.
The head of the UN human rights office, Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), said credible reports indicate “hundreds killed and detained” since the polls — with many families desperately searching hospitals and police stations for missing relatives.
The European Parliament last month moved to suspend direct funding to the Tanzanian authorities, condemning what MEPs described as “excessive use of force” during the protests — including widespread fatalities, arbitrary detention of opposition figures and massive restrictions on media and civil society.
Independent investigations by major international media outlets have documented instances of what appear to be wanton killings — with teams reporting police shooting protesters and, in some cases, disappearance of bodies — triggering serious concern over extrajudicial killings and mass graves.
The combined pressure from the UN, the EU and global media is rapidly reframing the narrative: what began as contested elections has evolved into a human rights crisis with demands for accountability, justice and the protection of fundamental freedoms.
Observers warn that the December 9 demonstrations could represent the largest mobilisation since the disputed vote, potentially triggering another heavy-handed response by security forces.
Rights groups and opposition figures have urged the government to allow peaceful protest, protect civilians and carry out an independent inquiry into the reported abuses.
The travel warning from the US Embassy adds international attention to the crisis, underscoring the serious risks for travellers and foreign nationals.