December 4, 2025 | Dalena Reporters
The United States has announced a full review of its bilateral relationship with Tanzania following what the United States Department of State describes as escalating repression of religious freedom and free speech, widespread violence around Tanzania’s recent elections, and institutions of the East-African nation becoming increasingly unfriendly to U.S. investors and interests.
In an official statement, state-department spokesperson Thomas Pigott said the U.S. values its longstanding partnership with the people of Tanzania but found recent actions by Tanzanian authorities deeply worrying. The statement pointed to “ongoing repression of religious freedom and free speech,” “persistent obstacles to U.S. investment,” and “disturbing violence against civilians” particularly those surrounding the disputed October 29 elections as reasons for the reassessment.
According to U.S. officials, the violence and human-rights abuses have imperiled the safety of American citizens, tourists and business interests in Tanzania. The review may lead to changes in diplomatic engagement, development cooperation, security ties and potentially economic measures, depending on how the Tanzanian government addresses these concerns.
The shift marks a notable departure from Washington’s previously more conciliatory posture toward Tanzania, once regarded as one of East Africa’s more stable partners. Rights-monitoring organisations have documented repeated incidents of repression including arrests of opposition figures, suppression of protests, clampdowns on religious institutions, and restrictions on media and civic space especially in the lead-up to the recent vote.
As of now, Tanzanian officials have not publicly responded to the U.S. decision. Observers say the coming weeks will be critical: the U.S. review could trigger diplomatic pressure, freeze-outs, or conditionality on aid and investments putting fresh pressure on the Tanzanian government to deliver on reforms.