Tanzania Enabling Environment Snapshot

Despite constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression, assembly, and association, Tanzania's civic space narrowed significantly before and after the 29 October 2025 general election. The period was marked by the reported disappearance of former ambassador Humphrey Polepole, the discovery of unidentified dead bodies, the arrest of CHADEMA Leaders, and widespread post-election protests. A Commission of Inquiry reported 518 deaths, while 641 people, mostly young protesters, were arrested on treason-related charges. In June 2026, the government also suspended public political gatherings nationwide, citing security concerns.

Civil society organisations continue to operate under the Non-Governmental Organisations Act of 2002, which grants broad oversight powers to an executive-appointed NGO Coordination Board, raising concerns about political influence. During the election period, pressure on civil society organisations (CSOs) increased through the suspension of JamiiForums, warnings to NGOs over alleged political financing, harassment of Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) staff, and heightened scrutiny of NGO activities. CHADEMA also faced possible deregistration over statements linked to planned demonstrations. A positive step was the increase in NGO representation in Parliament.

Financial sustainability remains a major challenge, with the majority of CSO funding coming from foreign donors. Funding cuts, donor withdrawals, and regulatory delays have forced many organisations to reduce staff, scale back operations, or close offices. Although CSOs participate in policy consultations, their recommendations are often not reflected in government decisions, limiting meaningful engagement.

Media freedom and digital rights also came under pressure. Tanzania experienced its first nationwide internet shutdown during the 2025 election, while reports indicated government pressure on social media platforms to remove critical content. Media organisations continue to face legal restrictions, financial pressures, and self-censorship, and youth-led activism has frequently been framed as a security threat rather than legitimate civic participation.

Overall, Tanzania's enabling environment for civil society from October 2025 to July 2026 reflects a widening gap between constitutional guarantees and practice. While the government has promoted dialogue and reconciliation, legal, administrative, and security measures have continued to restrict civil society, independent media, and political participation.