Foreigners have been put on alert after the U.S. Embassy in Tanzania issued a safety advisory to American citizens as protests in the country during election day escalated.
In a statement on Wednesday, October 29, the embassy advised U.S. nationals in Tanzania to remain indoors and avoid large gatherings as security forces respond to demonstrations, which coincided with the polls.
“There are reports of demonstrations in multiple locations. U.S. government personnel are advised to shelter in place,” the embassy said in a statement.
Foreigners, particularly U.S. residents, were urged to keep a low profile, monitor local media for developments and remain aware of their surroundings at all times.
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The U.S. Embassy provided contact information for citizens seeking assistance and urged Americans to enrol in the Smart Traveller Enrolment Program (STEP) to receive updates.
The advisory follows a wave of protests that have rocked several major towns in Tanzania, as youth took to the streets to protest the rule of President Samia Suluhu, who is seeking a second term.
Suluhu is on course for a landslide win since the main opposition leader and her strongest competitor, Tundu Lissu, is in detention, with his party deciding to boycott the polls, citing unfair conditions.
Several major roads in Tanzania have since been blocked by protestors, with cases of violence being reported in several areas. Police have reportedly also been overwhelmed by the sheer number of civilians on the streets.
Meanwhile, Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner Alfred Chalamila warned that authorities would not take lightly any attempts to disrupt the election process.
Despite warnings, some polling stations were subjected to vandalism as irate youth tore down ballot boxes to express their dissatisfaction with the current regime.
Earlier on Wednesday, internet observer Netblocks confirmed a nationwide disruption to internet connectivity in the East African nation in what has been described as a ‘digital blackout’.
Three major service providers in the country were also confirmed to have shut down internet access, sparking widespread concern.
Tanzania President Samia Suluhu queuing to vote on Wednesday, October 29, 2025.
