Otago University Students Evacuated from Tanzania Amid Unrest

Protests erupted in Tanzania following controversial election results, prompting a night-time curfew in the capital city of Dar es Salaam and a nationwide internet blackout. The unrest began on October 31, 2023, when the main opposition party rejected the landslide victory of President Samia Suluhu Hassan. As a result, students from Otago University were evacuated to ensure their safety.

According to Professor Suzanne Pitama, head of the university’s faculty of medicine, the students were engaged in medical electives when the violence began. Fortunately, they were located away from the center of the protests and were never in immediate danger.

“The university acted swiftly, working closely with our travel insurer, Healix International, to ensure the students’ safety,” Pitama stated. Within three days of the unrest, all affected students returned safely to New Zealand.

The political turmoil intensified after the arrest of opposition leader Tundu Lissu for treason in April, further heightening tensions between the government and dissenting voices. While the opposition claims that hundreds of individuals have died amid the protests, the United Nations reported credible evidence of at least 10 fatalities across three major cities.

In response to the unrest, New Zealand’s Safe Travel website has advised against non-essential travel to Tanzania. The advisory highlights the ongoing civil unrest and violent demonstrations, noting limited access to airports and possible disruptions to flight schedules.

“Protests are occurring in Tanzania, including in Dar es Salaam, following general elections. Authorities have announced a curfew in Dar es Salaam, with the possibility of additional curfews being implemented nationwide at short notice,” the advisory states.

The situation has raised concerns about future medical elective placements in Tanzania. Pitama indicated that the country will undergo regular reviews as part of the university’s assessment of potential risks for students.

With the political landscape in Tanzania shifting dramatically, the safety of international students remains a priority for educational institutions worldwide.