The United Kingdom (UK) Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) has issued a second travel advisory to its citizens living in and travelling to Tanzania, warning of shortages of food, fuel, and cash in the country.
This comes after the East African nation erupted in protests on Wednesday, October 29, during the country’s general elections.
In its updated travel advisory issued on Sunday, November 2, the UK urged its citizens to avoid travelling to Tanzania.
UK Warns of Food, Fuel and Cash Shortages in Tanzania
According to FCDO, the shortages have been worsened by the government’s decision to shut down the internet, disrupting access to information and essential services.
“FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Tanzania. This is consistent with advice for British High Commission staff to avoid all but essential travel,” the UK government said.
“This is due to disruption and unrest following the national election on 29 October. There are shortages of food, fuel, and cash, which have been compounded by the lack of internet services. There is also uncertainty around international transport options.”
The UK noted that there are widespread road blockades and closures nationwide, although the situation remains fluid.
“Many international flights have been cancelled to and from Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam,” it added.
Arusha International Airport and Kilimanjaro International Airport appear to be partially operational, while some international and domestic flights to and from Zanzibar Airport have been cancelled.
According to the advisory, there are currently no ferries operating between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, and the nd the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) rail service has also been suspended.
FCDO advised its citizens to check with their airline or travel provider for the latest information before travelling to airports or other transport hubs.
UK Advisory to Its Citizens
The UK government further advised British nationals in Tanzania to limit their movements, adhere to curfews, monitor local media, follow the advice of local authorities, and avoid all demonstrations, rallies, and large crowds.
“There is significant disruption to mobile networks, the internet, and social media,” the advisory added.
For British nationals in need of consular assistance, the FCDO said help is available 24/7 through the following contacts under the option ‘Consular services for British nationals’: +255 22 229 0000 or +44 (0) 20 7008 5000.
This comes a day after the Tanzania Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared President Samia Suluhu as the winner of the concluded presidential election.
In the official results announced by INEC Chairperson Jacobs Mwambegele, President Samia Suluhu secured a landslide victory, garnering 31,913,866 votes (97.66%).
Her closest competitor, Salum Mwalim of the Chama Cha Ukombozi wa Umma (Chaumma), garnered 213,414 votes (0.65%).
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