WASHINGTON — The United States has announced a comprehensive review of its relationship with the Government of Tanzania, citing concerns over repression, obstacles to investment, and violence surrounding the country’s recent elections.
In a statement, the US State Department emphasized that it values its longstanding partnership with Tanzania, which has historically brought prosperity to both populations and contributed to regional security.
“The United States values its longstanding partnership with the people of Tanzania, which has brought prosperity to our populations and security to the region,” the statement said. “Recent actions by the Government of Tanzania, however, raise grave concerns about the direction of our bilateral relationship and the reliability of the Tanzanian Government as a partner.”
The statement highlighted ongoing restrictions on religious freedom and free speech, as well as persistent barriers to US investment. It also cited violence against civilians in the days before and after Tanzania’s October 29 elections as a key factor prompting the review.
“These actions have put American citizens, tourists, and US interests in Tanzania at risk, and threatened to undermine the mutual prosperity and security that have defined our partnership for decades,” the State Department said.
The US stressed that it cannot overlook actions that jeopardize the safety of its citizens or the stability of the region. “The future of our bilateral relationship with the Government of Tanzania will be based on its actions,” the statement added.
Analysts say the review could affect US aid programs, diplomatic engagement, and investment initiatives in Tanzania, depending on how the government responds to concerns over human rights and security.
