ChristCentral Churches Impacted by Riots with many Dead
About 700 killed in Tanzania election protests, opposition says
Demonstrators took to streets after president’s main challengers were excluded from ballot (Source: The Guardian)
A Nation in Crisis: Churches Caught in the Crossfire
The recent riots in Tanzania, largely unreported by mainstream Western media, have had a devastating impact on our friends, partners, and ChristCentral churches across the nation. While international coverage has been limited, the reality on the ground is both heartbreaking and urgent.
Our teams are hearing reports of violence, power cuts, and food shortages, with church members losing homes, businesses, and even loved ones.
Below is a first-hand update sent from one of our pastors this week.
An Update from Tanzania
Good morning Andy,
Hope you are well. Below is a quick update of the current situation.
1. What happened?
Tanzania held its general elections for the President, Members of Parliament, and Councilors on October 29, 2025. The period leading up to and following the elections was marked by public unrest and protests from groups calling for electoral reforms under the slogan “No Reforms, No Elections.”
During election day and the days that followed, internet access was completely shut down, restricting communication and the flow of information across the country.
2. How it happened
Reports indicate that allegations of unfair practices and irregularities in several polling stations spoiled the elections. In some areas, citizens stormed polling centers, destroying or burning ballot boxes and buildings, including fuel stations and properties belonging to public figures.
Clashes between security forces and protesters resulted in casualties on both sides, with confirmed deaths among civilians and police officers. Internet services remained off nationwide from election day until late evening on November 3, 2025, when access was partially restored—though still limited and unstable.
3. How it has affected people and churches
Daily life and economic activities have been heavily disrupted. Many citizens stayed indoors for safety; businesses and markets remained closed; fuel stations stopped operations following government directives; and prices of basic goods and transport tripled overnight.
Schools from kindergarten to university levels suspended studies, delaying examinations and academic calendars.
Churches across the country were unable to hold services or gatherings due to security risks and movement restrictions.
Several congregants have suffered losses; some lost family members during the unrest, while others lost their livelihoods as their perishable goods (meat, fish, fruits, vegetables) spoiled due to prolonged power cuts.
Cases of stealing and destruction have also been reported in several towns.
4. What is expected in the coming weeks
Although the newly elected President from the ruling party (CCM) was announced and sworn in on November 3, 2025, the situation remains tense and uncertain.
There is a general sense of fear and caution among citizens as the country slowly resumes normalcy. We anticipate gradual restoration of stability, but continued caution will be necessary as communities rebuild trust and recover economically and emotionally.
5. Prayer requests
We humbly ask for continued prayers for:
Peace and reconciliation across the nation
Emotional healing for families who lost loved ones, including one of our own church members
Economic recovery for families and small traders who lost their goods and capital
Resilience and hope among church leaders and believers as they continue to serve in difficult conditions
Full restoration of communication and public trust as the country moves forward
ChristCentral Churches Tanzania
How You Can Help
The needs across Tanzania are immense right now.
Churches are caring for families who’ve lost loved ones, helping rebuild livelihoods, and standing as a beacon of peace in a nation shaken by violence.
If you’d like to stand with them, you can give to the work of WayMaker today.
