The United States has warned that American companies face significant risks in Tanzania following post-election unrest.

The warning came on December 11, 2025, from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, via X, highlighting concerns over violence, restrictions on social media, and the outlawing of unsanctioned gatherings.

Tanzania marked its Independence Day under lockdown, with streets largely empty in major cities such as Dar es Salaam. Security forces, including police and army units, were deployed to prevent protests that had been planned to denounce post-election violence. Shops closed, and public transport was largely suspended as residents stayed home amid fears of unrest.

The clampdown follows the October 29, 2025, presidential and parliamentary elections, which triggered widespread violence. The United Nations estimates that hundreds were killed in the election-related violence.

President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who won nearly 98 per cent of the vote, has denied wrongdoing by security forces. However, opposition parties and human rights groups have documented numerous abuses.

The United States has already been reviewing its relationship with Tanzania, citing serious concerns over human rights violations, restrictions on free speech, and obstacles to U.S. investment.

A statement from the US State Department’s Principal Deputy Spokesperson, Tommy Pigott, said recent actions by the Tanzanian government raise grave concerns about the direction of the bilateral relationship and the reliability of the Tanzanian government as a partner.

According to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, through the X post, the recent clampdown shows that Tanzania is neither stable nor a place where US investment can thrive. The statement stressed that hundreds of American companies operating in Tanzania could be at risk if the situation does not improve.

“Tanzanians marked their Independence Day under lockdown, with heavy security, social media restrictions, and unsanctioned gatherings outlawed to stifle expected protests,” the post read.

“Recent deadly violence and this week’s nationwide clampdown show Tanzania is neither stable nor a place where U.S. investment can thrive. This puts hundreds of American companies at risk and makes it clear the urgent need to review the bilateral relationship and U.S.-backed investments.”

Tanzania curbs Independence Day celebrations

The Tanzanian government had warned citizens to remain at home on December 9, the anniversary of Tanganyika’s independence from Britain in 1961. Prime Minister Mwigulu Nchemba said the government advised residents without urgent duties to stay home and avoid demonstrations. He accused opposition organisers of paying young people to cause unrest, saying funds that could have been used for public projects were being misused.

Small protests reportedly occurred in parts of Dar es Salaam and Mwanza, but authorities quickly dispersed them. Security officers carried out identification checks, and social media images of protests were said to be misleading. The government suspended Independence Day celebrations, redirecting funds originally meant for the event to repair infrastructure damaged in post-election unrest.

The United States has already issued a travel alert, warning its citizens about possible curfews, internet shutdowns, roadblocks, and travel disruptions. Non-emergency staff from the US Embassy were instructed not to travel.

The US review could affect American investments, aid programmes, and military cooperation with Tanzania. Officials have stressed that the future of bilateral relations will depend on the Tanzanian government’s actions to address human rights concerns, ensure free speech, and protect foreign investments.

Tanzania faces international scrutiny over its treatment of civilians and its approach to political opposition. As the US evaluates its ties, American companies and citizens remain at heightened risk in the country.

However, despite the growing tensions and US concerns over human rights and public safety, Tanzania and the United States are moving to finalise key investment deals. On December 8, 2025, President Samia Suluhu Hassan met Acting US Ambassador Andrew Lentz at Chamwino State House to discuss strategic projects, including the LNG project, the Tembo Nickel project, and the Mahenge Graphite project.

Both sides noted that negotiations for the LNG and Tembo Nickel projects are in their final stages, while work on the Mahenge Graphite project continues. President Samia emphasised Tanzania’s openness to partners who respect its sovereignty, while Ambassador Lentz reiterated the US commitment to shared prosperity.