Joseph Isangura
Tanzania marked its 64th Independence anniversary on December 9, 2025 under tight security and an unusual quietness in several major cities, following online mobilization by segments of the country’s Gen Z community calling for nationwide demonstrations.
The government had earlier urged citizens to remain indoors unless engaged in essential activities, a directive that noticeably influenced the national mood throughout the day.
In Dodoma, the administrative capital, activity slowed dramatically. Roads surrounding the Parliament—including the Kimbinyiko–CBE stretch, the VETA–Parliament corridor, and the Morogoro–City Centre route—were closed as security agencies intensified patrols. The normally busy Machinga Complex remained shut, contributing to an uncommon stillness across the city.
Authorities explained that the measures were precautionary, stemming from online calls for “peaceful indefinite demonstrations.” The Tanzania Police Force reiterated that the proposed protests had been declared illegal since December 5, citing non-compliance with the Constitution of Tanzania and existing public order regulations.
Police spokesperson DCP David Misime cautioned the public against a wave of misleading images and videos circulating on social media, falsely suggesting that protests were taking place in different parts of the country. He clarified that many of the visuals were old—some recorded between October 29 and 31, others from a June 2025 ceremony involving the Maasai community—but were now being misrepresented to fuel anxiety and confusion.
In Dar es Salaam, security presence increased across several key areas including the Central Business District, Kariakoo, Mwenge, and Ubungo. Patrol vehicles and foot officers were stationed at major junctions, while essential services such as transportation, food markets, fuel stations, and medical facilities continued operating normally. Traders in Kariakoo, however, reported significantly lower customer turnout, attributing the drop to fears linked to the Gen Z protest campaign rather than to any disruptions on the ground.
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Traffic on major highways such as Nyerere Road and Morogoro Road remained smooth, albeit with fewer private vehicles and public transport users than is typical for an Independence Day. By mid-afternoon, authorities confirmed that no demonstrations had occurred in the city and that peace and stability had been maintained.
A similar pattern was seen in Geita, where Nyankumbu Market and Katoro Bus Stand recorded low turnout. Long-distance buses remained parked due to a lack of passengers, while only a few traders opened stalls to manage perishable stock. In Mwanza, the Regional Commissioner dismissed a viral video allegedly showing soldiers confronting protesters, clarifying that the footage was taken weeks earlier after the announcement of election results.
In Tabora, economic activity continued but at a reduced pace, with traders noting a sharp decline in customers. Mtwara also experienced subdued business despite the busy cashew season, as residents opted for caution following widespread online rumors about possible demonstrations.
Religious leaders added their voices to the day’s developments. A bishop from the Karagwe Diocese called for responsible leadership and urged authorities not to restrict civic freedoms under the guise of maintaining order.
By the end of the day, the police confirmed that the country remained peaceful. DCP Misime said security agencies would intensify nighttime operations to deter activities that could threaten national stability, urging citizens to continue rejecting misinformation and upholding the rule of law.
