DAR ES SALAAM, Nov 4 — The United States Embassy in Tanzania has issued a stark warning to its citizens, citing deteriorating conditions in parts of Dar es Salaam marked by shortages of food, fuel, and cash, as well as widespread communication blackouts.
In an alert released on Monday, November 3, the embassy said the situation in some neighbourhoods of Tanzania’s commercial capital had worsened, with basic supplies running low and international flight schedules disrupted.
“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 embassy stated.
The advisory urged U.S. nationals to comply with Tanzania’s ongoing nationwide curfew, which remains in effect from 6:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., and warned of tighter security measures in parts of Dar es Salaam.
“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 embassy said.
The alert comes just a day after Washington raised its travel advisory for Tanzania to Level 3, urging Americans to reconsider travel to the East African nation due to civil unrest, elevated crime rates, and threats of terrorism.
The U.S. State Department also cited the targeting of gay and lesbian individuals, noting that people identifying as LGBTQ+ face arrest, harassment, and, in some cases, invasive physical examinations by police.
The advisory further warned that violent crime remains common throughout Tanzania, including incidents of assault, robbery, and carjacking. It highlighted an ongoing risk of extremist violence, particularly in the Mtwara Region, near Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado Province — an area long troubled by insurgent activity.
Meanwhile, President Samia Suluhu Hassan condemned the recent wave of unrest that erupted following the country’s elections, calling it a “sad and uncharacteristic” moment for Tanzania.
Speaking during her inauguration ceremony on Monday, November 3, President Suluhu said the violence, which resulted in deaths and property destruction, does not represent the country’s identity or values.
“We are deeply shocked and saddened by the loss of life and destruction of property. What happened does not reflect the true spirit of being Tanzanian,” she said, adding that some of those arrested were foreign nationals.
The president pledged to restore calm and unity, even as international partners, including the United States, continue to monitor developments closely amid rising concern over Tanzania’s stability.
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