US Issues Travel Advisory for Tanzania Amid Reports of Planned Protests on December 9

A photo collage of the US President Donald Trump (left) and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu.
A photo collage of the US President Donald Trump (left) and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu.
Photo
New York Post/

President Donald Trump's administration has issued a fresh travel advisory for Tanzania, warning foreigners against travelling to the volatile East African country amid reports of looming protests.

In a notice published on Friday, December 5, the US government noted that it had received reports suggesting planned protests on December 9, 2025, but warned that the unrest could start as early as this weekend.

The US cautioned its citizens living in Tanzania to prepare for potential disruptions, including the possibility of unrest, nationwide curfews, an internet blackout, and cancellation of ferries to Zanzibar.

Additionally, the Trump administration warned of a possible cancellation of international flights and the setting up of roadblocks to enforce movement restrictions.

A bonfire along a road in Tanzania during elections protests on Wednesday, October 29.
A bonfire along a road in Tanzania during election protests on Wednesday, October 29.
Photo
BBC

"We are aware of calls for nationwide anti-government demonstrations and protest activity in Tanzania. U.S. citizens should be prepared for potential disruptions, including the possibility of unrest and nationwide curfews," the US government said.

While the threats for the anti-government protests continue to escalate, the US warned that the upcoming protests could spread quickly to multiple regions.

International travellers, particularly those planning to enter or leave Tanzania over the next few days, were urged to confirm flight schedules by telephone before heading to airports or ports.

According to the US government, this is because online systems in Tanzania could be unreliable in the event of an internet outage.

Similarly, foreigners living in Tanzania were advised to avoid demonstrations and large gatherings, which can become unpredictable, and to maintain awareness of their surroundings.

Foreigners were also advised to prepare emergency supplies, including water, food, fuel, medications, and cash, in case local conditions require sheltering in place.

"The Embassy is open for limited emergency American citizen services only on December 8th and 10th. As of December 8th, U.S. government employees are restricted from travelling domestically in Tanzania," the US government stated.

Despite Trump's warning, Tanzania's police yesterday said that nationwide demonstrations expected next week are unlawful, setting the stage for renewed clashes after last month's post-election bloodshed.

Tear gas fills the air as police confront protesters in Tanzania, October 29, 2025.
Tear gas fills the air as police confront protesters in Tanzania, October 29, 2025.
Photo
Mwanzo TV