The United States Embassy in Tanzania has warned its citizens to remain indoors as protests erupt in several parts of the country while voting continues in the national elections on Wednesday.
In a statement shared on X, the embassy said there were ongoing demonstrations in multiple locations and confirmed that security forces were already on the ground responding to incidents.
U.S. government staff in Tanzania were instructed to shelter at their residences until further notice.
The embassy advised Americans to avoid demonstrations, stay away from crowded areas, and keep a low profile.
It also urged them to monitor local media and stay alert to their surroundings.
Contact information for the embassy’s office in Dar es Salaam was shared to assist citizens requiring emergency support.
Polling began early Wednesday, with Tanzanians casting their votes for presidential, parliamentary, and local positions.
The elections have been marked by tight security and reports of tension in urban centers such as Dar es Salaam and Mwanza, where clashes between demonstrators and police were reported.
International media outlets, including Reuters and the Associated Press, noted concerns over restrictions on opposition candidates and disruptions to internet access during voting hours.
Rights groups have also highlighted cases of pre-election arrests and restrictions on rallies, describing the environment as increasingly constrained.