Britons holidaying in an African tourist hotspot have been issued a brand new travel warning regarding their safety.
Tanzania is a popular tourist destination and is considered to be very safe. It is famous for its incredible wildlife reserves, majestic animals, and traditional cultures - not to mention the exquisite beaches of Zanzibar. Adventurers can also climb Africa's highest mountain, Kilimanjaro.
However, holidaymakers have been given a new warning about terrorism in the East African country.
It's important for holidaymakers to consult UK Government advice before going abroad. Britons were recently given an important warning about travelling with children in Spain, as parents and guardians risk fines.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) gave an "updated assessment that terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Tanzania".
Tanzania is home to some majestic animals
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The FCDO told Britons: "There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times."
Holidaymakers should consult the UK Counter Terrorism Policing's information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack.
The FCDO also provides information on how Britons can reduce their risk from terrorism while abroad.
The FCDO continued: "Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Tanzania.
"Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreign nationals, such as places of worship, transport hubs, embassies, hotels, restaurants, bars, major gatherings like sporting or religious events, and crowded places."
Britons in Tanzania were advised to "stay aware" of their surroundings. The FCDO added: "Keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities."
Holidaymakers were warned: "Extremists linked to the Islamic terrorist group Al-Shabaab based in Somalia pose a threat across the East Africa region, and are thought to be active in Tanzania.
"Attacks by IS-Mozambique, who are based in the Cabo Delgado province of Mozambique, are possible near Tanzania’s border with this area of Mozambique. There is also thought to be some support for Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL).
"The Tanzanian authorities have successfully made a number of arrests in connection to terrorism. However, many incidents in Tanzania are of unclear origin and may be conducted by criminal gangs.
"In 2020, the village of Kitaya in the Mtwara region was attacked, close to the border with Mozambique, the attack was claimed by Islamic extremists operating from northern Mozambique. Most attacks target the local security forces, although attacks against western interests are also possible."
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Zanzibar, a Tanzanian archipelago, is known for its idyllic beaches
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As part of its safety and security guidance, the FCDO also provides essential information on the political situation in Tanzania, crime, laws and cultural differences, outdoor activities and adventure tourism, transport risks, extreme weather and natural disasters.
Although Tanzania is a popular tourist destination, not all areas are considered safe.
The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to within 20km of the Tanzanian border with Cabo Delgado Province in Mozambique. This is due to attacks by groups linked with Islamic extremism.
Britons thinking of visiting Tanzania should consult the FCDO for information on warnings and insurance, regional risks, health and getting help in an emergency.
