Tanzanians expressed concern over the US suspension of visa issuance to several countries across the world, including Tanzania, saying the move could hurt private businesses and the broader economy.
Some residents noted that Tanzania has maintained a long-standing foreign policy of neutrality and non-conflict since the country’s independence over six decades ago, arguing the restrictions contradict that history.
“Tanzania is a free country … Tanzania has never had conflicts with any other nation in matters foreign policy,” said Dodoma resident Othuman Dunga.
Others urged their government to engage Washington to ease the measures, citing the importance of trade ties, including exports of tobacco and coffee, and warning that strained relations could disrupt economic cooperation.
“We export goods from Tanzania to America such as tobacco, coffee, among others so we must restore the relationship. So, the ministry of foreign affairs has their work cut out,” Dodoma resident Kelvin Komba said.
The US Department of State on their webiste said the suspension, effective since January 1, 2026, is “in line with Presidential Proclamation 10998 on “Restricting and Limiting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the Security of the United States.”” 19 countries are affected, a few African states alongside Tanzania, include Angola, Benin, Burundi, Code D’Ivoire, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Nigeria, Senegal, Togo, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
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