Africa-Press – Tanzania. Shortages of food, fuel, and money have hit Tanzania, according to the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), after protests erupted on Wednesday during the country’s general elections.
Following these reports, the United Kingdom has elevated its travel advisory against Tanzania, warning its citizens to avoid travelling to the East African nation.
In its latest update issued on Sunday, November 2, FCDO warned of a significant shortage of food, fuel, and cash services, which it says has disrupted livelihoods, leaving thousands vulnerable.
According to the UK Embassy in Tanzania, the shortage was further exacerbated by the Tanzanian government’s decision to shut down the internet, blocking access to information and crucial services.
“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 warned.
The UK revealed widespread road blockades and closures nationwide, with many international flights having been cancelled to and from Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam.
While Arusha and Kilimanjaro International Airports appear to be partially operational, some international and domestic flights to and from Zanzibar Airport have been temporarily suspended.
Besides flight restrictions, there are currently no ferries running from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar, with the Standard Gauge Railways (SGR) train services unavailable.
In its travel advisory, the UK government urged its citizens who are currently stuck in Tanzania to limit movements, adhere to the curfews, monitor local media and follow the advice of the local authorities.
The warning comes a day after Tanzania’s electoral commission declared Samia Suluhu as the winner in the Wednesday, October 29, elections after she garnered nearly 98 per cent of the total votes cast.
The win handed Samia, who took over power in 2021 following the demise of her predecessor, John Magufuli, another five-year term at the helm of power.
However, Tanzania’s opposition has rejected Suluhu’s landslide victory, citing the exclusion of key opposition figures in the recent polls. They claim that the elections were marred by alleged mass rigging and a lack of transparency.
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