The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a stern travel advisory warning its citizens against all but essential travel to Tanzania, citing severe shortages of food, fuel, and cash following widespread unrest after the country’s October 29 General Election.
In its latest update on Sunday, November 2, 2025, the FCDO reported that disruptions have crippled key services across the nation, leaving thousands struggling to access basic necessities.
“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 government stated.
Severe Disruptions Across the Country
According to the British Embassy in Dar es Salaam, the situation has worsened due to the Tanzanian government’s decision to shut down internet services, limiting access to vital information, digital transactions, and communication channels.
The UK advisory notes that road blockades and nationwide closures have paralyzed transport networks. Many international flights have been canceled to and from Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) in Dar es Salaam, while Arusha and Kilimanjaro International Airports are operating on limited schedules. Several domestic and international flights to and from Zanzibar have also been suspended.
Additionally, ferry services between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar and Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) train operations have been temporarily halted, further isolating major cities and disrupting trade.
Other Nations Raise Concern
The Israeli Embassy in Kenya, which also oversees Tanzanian affairs, has echoed the UK’s warning, advising its citizens to avoid travel to Tanzania and urging those already in the country to remain indoors and stay away from large gatherings.
Israel’s Foreign Ministry also cautioned of potential shortages in food, electricity, and communication networks, calling on citizens to remain alert and follow developments via trusted media sources.
President Samia Declared Election Winner Amid Crisis
Despite the unrest, President Samia Suluhu Hassan has been declared the winner of Tanzania’s disputed presidential election, securing 97.66% of the vote after several opposition candidates were barred from contesting.
Receiving her certificate of victory from the electoral commission in Dodoma, President Hassan urged Tanzanians to focus on unity and peace following the divisive election.
“Tanzanians have voted overwhelmingly for a female leader. The election is now over it’s time to unite and not destroy what we’ve built for over six decades,” she said.
“We will take all necessary actions and work with all security agencies to ensure peace across the country.”
As tensions continue to mount, international observers have called for calm and transparency while humanitarian agencies warn that the growing shortages could spark a wider humanitarian crisis if not addressed urgently.
