Israel has sounded the alarm for its citizens in Tanzania, warning of imminent civil unrest as the dust fails to settle on the disputed October general election.

The advisory, issued Thursday, flags December 9—Tanzania’s Independence Day—as a potential flashpoint for violence, urging travelers to stockpile essential supplies and steer clear of city centers. This development serves as a grim signal that the political volatility gripping our southern neighbor is far from over, with implications for regional stability and trade.

A Republic Day on Edge

The warning is specific and urgent. Israeli authorities have cautioned that the planned demonstrations could paralyze transportation and lead to clashes similar to those witnessed weeks ago. The advisory explicitly recommends that citizens:

• Avoid all public gatherings: Crowds are expected to be volatile.
• Stockpile essentials: Ensure access to food, water, and medication in case of lockdowns.
• Monitor local media: Situational awareness is critical as events unfold.

“Following the events around the elections held in Tanzania on 29 October 2025... additional demonstrations are expected on 9 December 2025 in central areas of the country, that may begin several days earlier,” the Israeli advisory stated. The warning underscores the severity of the situation, noting that previous unrest led to internet blackouts and severe transport disruptions.

The Shadow of October

Context is crucial to understanding this tension. The October 29 polls were marred by allegations of irregularities, sparking widespread public disturbances. The subsequent crackdown involved internet shutdowns—a tactic that cripples both communication and digital commerce—and violent dispersals of protesters.

Analysts suggest that the choice of December 9 for renewed protests is symbolic, aiming to juxtapose the country's celebration of independence with current grievances regarding democratic governance. For Kenyans doing business across the border, this signals a need for immediate logistical planning, as cross-border transport may face delays.

Regional Ripples

The unease is not limited to Israel. The Kenyan Mission in Tanzania has also weighed in, advising Kenyans to exercise extreme prudence. The Mission urged Kenyan nationals to "remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding," while emphasizing the importance of promptly reporting any distress to the High Commission.

While the UK has separately issued warnings regarding terrorism threats near the Somalia border, the focus in Tanzania remains squarely on internal political friction. As the region watches closely, the message to travelers is clear: caution is the only currency that matters right now.