The United States Embassy in Tanzania has issued an urgent security alert to all U.S. citizens currently residing or traveling in the country, urging them to shelter in place following widespread demonstrations that have reportedly escalated into violent confrontations and roadblocks across multiple regions.
According to the embassy’s official statement released on Thursday, travel by road is now considered highly dangerous as protestors have set up blockades on major highways and urban streets, severely disrupting transportation networks. The advisory also warns that internet connectivity across Tanzania is intermittent, complicating efforts to communicate with friends, family, and emergency services.
“The U.S. Embassy advises U.S. citizens to shelter-in-place. There are reports of country-wide demonstrations resulting in outbreaks of violence and roadblocks,” the statement reads.
Widespread Unrest Sparks Safety Concerns
Although the exact cause of the demonstrations remains unclear, local reports suggest that tensions have been building for days over political grievances and economic frustrations, culminating in large-scale protests in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mwanza, and Dodoma.
Eyewitnesses have reported scattered clashes between demonstrators and security forces, with some areas experiencing vandalism, looting, and property destruction. The atmosphere remains tense, and businesses in major cities have reportedly closed early as a precautionary measure.
With international flights being canceled and airport access restricted, travelers have been advised to verify flight schedules by phone before attempting to reach the airport. Authorities have also discouraged non-essential movement, citing the growing risk of being caught in violent confrontations or roadblocks.
Embassy Urges Americans to Exercise Maximum Caution
The U.S. Embassy’s advisory lists several key safety actions that American citizens in Tanzania are strongly encouraged to follow:
- Avoid demonstrations and public gatherings, which can turn violent without warning.
- Avoid crowds and maintain a low profile to minimize the risk of becoming a target.
- Monitor local media for breaking updates about the situation in your area.
- Remain aware of your surroundings and adjust travel plans accordingly.
- Check in with family and friends to let them know your current location and safety status.
Citizens are also encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive real-time alerts and emergency updates from the U.S. Embassy. This service allows the embassy to communicate directly with registered citizens during crises and assist in locating them if needed.
Assistance Contacts for Americans in Tanzania
For those seeking immediate help, the U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam has made its contact lines available around the clock. The embassy is located at:
U.S. Embassy Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
686 Old Bagamoyo Road, Msasani
P.O. Box 9123
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
📞 +255-22-229-4000
🌐 tz.usembassy.gov
U.S. citizens can also reach the State Department – Consular Affairs at:
📞 888-407-4747 (U.S. & Canada) or 202-501-4444 (overseas).
The U.S. government further recommends reviewing the Tanzania Country Specific Information page for detailed safety and travel updates.
Internet and Communication Disruptions Reported
As demonstrations continue, intermittent internet access has been reported in several regions, hampering communication between families and embassies. Messaging platforms and social media services are also reportedly experiencing disruptions, which could delay the delivery of safety alerts or updates.
The embassy’s advisory highlights the difficulty of staying informed under such circumstances, urging citizens to use radio broadcasts or local television when online sources are unavailable.
Ongoing Monitoring and Government Response
Local law enforcement agencies have reportedly increased their presence in urban areas, with checkpoints established on major roads and near government buildings. Security forces have advised civilians to remain indoors and comply with curfew orders where applicable.
The U.S. Embassy confirmed it is actively monitoring the situation and remains in close contact with Tanzanian authorities and other foreign missions to coordinate safety measures for expatriates and tourists.
Conclusion
The situation in Tanzania remains volatile, and the U.S. government has made it clear that citizens should not attempt unnecessary travel until the unrest subsides. With road travel posing a significant risk and flight operations disrupted, Americans are urged to prioritize personal safety, stay indoors, and keep communication lines open through all available means.
As the situation develops, the embassy will continue issuing updates through its official website and STEP notifications. U.S. citizens are encouraged to remain calm, exercise vigilance, and follow embassy guidance closely until stability is restored.
