The Country

Tanzania’s history is diverse and covers periods of Portuguese exploration, Arab domination, German colonization, British administration under a League of Nations mandate, and UN Trusteeship. Tanganyika gained independence in 1961, and in 1964, Zanzibar, also independent, united with the mainland to become the United Republic of Tanzania.

For over twenty years following the 1967 Arusha Declaration, Tanzania followed a policy of socialism and self-reliance. The past few years have seen significant changes. The United Republic has played an active role in efforts to bring independence and majority rule in southern Africa. Because of Tanzania’s past prominence in regional and international affairs and its stability and role as an honest broker in surrounding conflicts, Dar es Salaam is an active diplomatic post.

A hot climate, changing economic conditions, the world-wide terrorist threat and health risks offer challenges for personnel assigned to Dar es Salaam, but a tour of duty here can be rewarding and enjoyable. Tanzania offers warm and friendly people, magnificent mountain scenery, the superb seashore, the finest wild game preserves on earth, excellent game fishing, scuba diving, and many other water sports.

The Capital

Under German rule, Dar es Salaam became the capital of Tanganyika in 1894. The Germans designed a spacious city plan, began to develop the natural harbor as a port, and constructed many public buildings that are still in use. On the north side of the harbor are tree-lined streets, a botanical garden, and a museum. The President’s office and most government buildings are in this area.

At the end of World War I, the League of Nations mandated that Tanganyika became a territory under British rule. Between wars, Dar es Salaam developed slowly. But after World War II, the city developed rapidly and great population growth brought wealth to the capital.

Since the 1979 war with Uganda, and as foreign exchange problems have become acute, the city has deteriorated sharply. Streets are poorly maintained. The prices of luxury items and basic commodities have risen astronomically in the last five years. Crime has increased with the shortage of commodities and seemingly intractable unemployment.

The Host Country

Area, Geography, and Climate Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:51 AM

Tanzania, the second largest country in East Africa, is just south of the Equator. The mainland stretches from north to south for 740 miles and from east to west for 760 miles with a 500-mile coastline on the Indian Ocean. It shares borders with Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda, Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique. Including the islands of Unguja and Pemba that make up Zanzibar, Tanzania's total area is 362,820 square miles (with 20,600 square miles of lakes), equal to the area of Texas and New Mexico. The coastal strip is tropical with high humidity; temperatures range from 80°F–95°F. The country’s annual rainfall averages 65 inches. The central plateau (altitude 3,000–4,000 feet; rainfall 2–30 inches), which covers much of the country, is hot and dry. The semi-temperate highlands (up to 6,000 feet; rainfall 40–100 inches) are fertile and cool. The islands of Zanzibar (rainfall 60-75 inches), 25 miles off the coast, are tropical and humid.

Tanzania has two rainy and two dry seasons. During the long rains, from March through May, heavy downpours can occur daily (though it is not unusual to have as many as 2-3 days of sunny, pleasant weather between showers). The short rains come in November and December. Temperatures and humidity are high from November to April, and surface winds are moderate. June through September is pleasant and generally mild.

Another weather phenomenon are the monsoon winds, or tradewinds, which blow in different directions during the year. From April to November, the winds can be quite cool. They also negatively impact the ocean temperature and the visibility for those who like to snorkel and dive.

Mildew and rust are constant problems.

Population Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:53 AM

Tanzania's population is about 34.4 million; 97% are of African origin. Tanzania has more than 120 tribes; principal tribes are the Sukuma, Nyamwezi, Waha, Makonde, Gogo, Haya, Chagga, Hehe, and Nyakyusa. These agricultural peoples migrated to Tanzania in the last 2,000 years. A small part of the population is made up of peoples of Nilotic origin. The Masai, the best known group, are nomadic livestock keepers.

The national language is Swahili, however, each tribe has its own language, often related to other Bantu languages. Swahili is a Bantu language with strong Arabic, Portuguese and some English influences. English is widely used in government, commerce and for all education above the primary level, although the level of English has fallen sharply in recent years.

About 275,000 Tanzanians trace their ancestry to the Indian subcontinent and southwest Asia. Its traders came to East Africa during the last 3 centuries, but mostly since 1900. Arab immigrants and people claiming Persian origin have migrated to East Africa for 1,000 years; this group has almost been assimilated into the African population. Several thousand Western expatriates live in Tanzania as missionaries, technical experts, business people or farmers.

Tanzania's first residents were animists. Their practices and rituals included ancestor worship and belief in the unity of the dead and living. The first Arab traders were Islamic, and Islam is the religion of over one-third of the population. Christian missionaries first arrived in the mid-19th century. Today about one-third of the population is Christian. The remainder practice traditional religions, and members of all faiths continue to share many traditional beliefs, such as ancestor worship. A sizable percentage of the Asian minority is Hindu.

Public Institutions Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:54 AM

Tanzania is a republic, with a multi-party system. The Revolutionary Party (Chama Cha Mapinduzi in Swahili, or CCM) is the ruling party and it was formed in February 1977, with the merger of the mainland's Tanganyika African National Union and the Afro-Shirazi party of Zanzibar. The Government of Tanzania legalized additional political parties in May 1992 by amending the Constitution and creating the Political Parties Act of 1992, in time for the first multiparty elections in 1995. To date there are 18 fully registered political parties including CCM, who are fully registered under the Act. In order to be considered for registration, all these parties have to have members from both mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar.

All major posts in Government and civil service are held by Tanzanian citizens. Foreign expatriate employees serve as advisers or technicians in fields for which Tanzanians are not yet trained. The government's policy is to gradually replace these expatriates with Tanzanian citizens.

The National Assembly has 295 members. 231 members elected from number of constituencies. 48 women members elected by political parties. 5 members elected by the Zanzibar House of Representatives, the Attorney General, and 10 members appointed by the President.

National Assembly actions are valid for Zanzibar only in specifically designated Union matters. Zanzibar's own 78- member House of Representatives has jurisdiction over all non-Union matters. Representatives of the House are comprised of CCM, which has 64 seats inclusive of 10 extra seats that the Zanzibar constitution has allowed President Amani Abeid Karume (although at present, only 7 of those seats are filled): 12 special women's seats and 5 for ex-officio members (Zanzibari Regional Commissioners), and 1 for the Attorney General of Zanzibar. CUF, the main opposition party, has 14 seats inclusive of 3 special women's seats.

The President of Tanzania appoints judges of the Court of Appeal and also the judges of the High Court. The President also appoints the Chief Justice who becomes the Head of the Court of Appeal and the Chief of the Judiciary. One of the High Court Judges is also appointed to become the Principal Judge. The other judges of Appeal are appointed by the President after consultation with the Chief Justice.

The President also appoints Judges to the High Court after consultation with the Judicial Services Commission, which is comprised of the Chief Justice as Chairman, the Attorney General, a Judge of the Court of Appeal, the Principal Judge of the High Court, and two other members appointed by the President. The Judicial Services Commission appoints Magistrates and other Judicial Officers.

Military courts do not try civilians and no security courts exist. The government offers free legal counsel to defendants charged with treason or murder. In Dar es Salaam, free legal counsel is also provided to some indigent defendants by lawyers affiliated with the Tanzania Bar Association, the Legal Aid Society, and the Women's Legal Aid Center.

Zanzibar, comprised of the islands of Unguja and Pemba, united with mainland Tanganyika in 1964 to form the United Republic of Tanzania. Despite the Union, Zanzibar retains considerable self-government. Foreign affairs and defense are considered Union matters. Following the 1964 revolution, Zanzibar experienced bloody purges and expulsions and a severely repressive, arbitrary regime. The first popular election did not take place until 1981. The adoption of a 1984 Isles Constitution however, brought with it a number of reforms. The new constitution includes a Bill of Rights, provides for the popular election of the President in a multiparty election, and that a two-thirds majority of the Zanzibar House of Representatives must be directly elected by the people. The new constitution also brought Zanzibar's judiciary into conformity with that of the mainland and did away with the former system of people's courts in which legal representation was denied and judges had no legal training.

Amongst the nongovernmental organizations active in Tanzania are the Red Cross; the YMCA and the YWCA; the Tanzanian Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture; the Confederation of Tanzania Industries; the Rotary Club; the Lions Club; the Christian Council; and the World Vision. Caritas, the Salvation Army, the Catholic Relief Services, Plan International, the Africa Wildlife Fund, the World Wildlife Fund, and AMREF are also present.

Arts, Science, and Education Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:56 AM

Art in Tanzania is a developing industry. Art education is only practiced at University of Dar es Salaam’s Fine and Performing Arts department, the Bagamoyo College of Arts, and at other organizations but not as disciplines. Music is taught at the Dhow Countries Music Academy in Zanzibar, at the Bagamoyo College of Arts, and in private. There are many local bands and musicians, artists and handicraft makers. Most of these skills are handed down in families or gained from learning on the job.

In Dar es Salaam a few places to see the art of Tanzania include: the Mwenge [Makonde] Carver’s Market, the National Museum and the Village Museum, The Slipway Flea Market, the Wasanii Art Centre at Slipway, Oysterbay Tinga Tinga Art gallery, Nyumba ya Sanaa, and other smaller local galleries. In Zanzibar, art can be viewed historical places around Forodhani, and in Tanga at the Amboni Caves. Bagamoyo has a number of sites to see art collections as well. There are art exhibitions and craft sales throughout the year at different venues.

The film industry in Tanzania is in its infancy. There are only a few feature films and a number of documentaries that have been made, most of them in Kiswahili. For foreign programs, there are film festivals and cultural presentations by various embassies. The New World Cinema is currently the only cinema. There are several TV, video and cable companies. The University of Dar es Salaam, The Dar es Salaam Players Little Theatre, and local schools sometimes have plays during the year.

Tanzania has a mixture of government and privately-owned media. Many have sprung up since the advent of multi-party politics. Print media: There are approximately 12 dailies (6 in English), 35 weeklies and 10 periodicals. Broadcast Stations: There are approximately 14 radio, 10 television, 15 cable and video studios. In addition there are 3 national news agencies, 32 printing and publishing houses, and various media training institutions, advertising agencies, internet service providers and cell phone providers.

Tanzania is one of the world’s best known areas for field work in paleontology and zoology. The traveler can visit the site of the famous Leakey discoveries at Olduvai and browse through the tiny museum. Jane Goodall's work with chimpanzees at Gombe National Park is well known. A number of Americans come to Tanzania every year to do other extensive fieldwork in wildlife studies, environmental studies, anthropology, history, health and medicine, comparative politics and literature (traditional languages and stories). Researchers work with universities, NGOs, and private research institutions after obtaining research clearance from the Tanzania Commission on Science and Technology.

Tanzania has made an effort to improve its education system, but as of 2002 the literacy rate was only at 67%. The national system follows the 7-4-2 system for primary and secondary education. All government schools follow the national system. There are several private kindergarten, primary and secondary schools. Many of them follow the national curriculum but a few follow the Cambridge or IB system. Approximately 12% of primary school students make it into secondary school. Less than that make it into university.

The major higher education institutions and their web site addresses, if available, are as follows:
1) University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, www.udsm.ac.tz, offers arts and social sciences, commerce and management, sciences, education, aquatic sciences and technology, law and engineering. In addition, there are institutes of development studies, Kiswahili research, resource assessment and marine sciences. There are two associated colleges, Muhimbili University College of Health Sciences, www.muchs.ac.tz, for dentistry, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, allied health sciences, public health, primary health care, health education and traditional medicine, and University College of Land and Architectural Studies, for land and environmental engineering, architecture and planning, human settlement studies and geo-information;
2) Mzumbe University in Morogoro offers degrees in economics, business management, public administration, local government, economic planning, accountancy and financial management;
3) Open University of Tanzania, Dar es Salaam, www.tanzania.go.tz/out.htm, offers courses via distance learning;
4) Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, www.suanet.ac.tz, offers degrees in agriculture, agronomy, home economics and human nutrition, horticulture, animal science, food science and technology, agricultural engineering, agricultural extension and education, agricultural economics and agribusiness, wildlife management, veterinary medicine and environmental sciences;
5) State University of Zanzibar, Zanzibar, offers degrees in languages, law and business administration and education;
6) Institute of Finance Management, Dar es Salaam offers degrees in finance and management;
7) College of African Wildlife Management, Moshi, www.mwekawildlife.org;
8) Karume Technical College, Zanzibar;
9) Tumaini University has four campuses: a) Iringa University College - Tumaini University, Iringa, www.tumaini.com, offers degrees in journalism, business administration, theology and agriculture, b) Kilimanjaro Christian Medical College of Tumaini University, Moshi, www.kcmc.ac.tz, offers degrees in nursing, prosthetics and orthetics, medicine, pubic health and urology, c) Makumira University College, Moshi http://www.makumira.ac.tz/ offers degrees in theology and divinity and d) Tumaini University in Dar es Salaam offers general studies; and
10) St. Augustine University of Tanzania offers degrees in mass communication and business administration.

Commerce and Industry Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:57 AM

Restructuring and Privatization of Parastatals

Up to March 2003, 266 parastatals were privatized including 47 that were placed under LART. Among the privatized parastatals, 134 were 100% acquired by Tanzanians and 16 paratastals were 100% acquired by foreigners, and 116 were privatised through joint venture between local and foreign investors. Among the privatised companies sold to Tanzanians, 16 were sold to the employees of the respective companies through management buyout. In addition, 265 non-core companies were sold.

In 2002, emphasis was made on preparing strategies to privatise or rehabilitate the infrastructure of service companies including DAWASA, ATC, TANESCO, THA, TRC, NIC and NMB. Up to February 2003, the government managed to privatise Air Tanzania Corporation on joint venture basis and DAWASA on lease Agreement System.

Tanzania opened a Stock Exchange with two local companies listed; now there are six companies and the public is able to buy and sell shares.

The World Bank, Sweden, Netherlands, European Union, Germany, and Denmark provide more than 60% of Tanzania's donor assistance. The USAID assistance to Tanzania is active in the sectors of private enterprise development, democracy and government environmental conservation and health (family planning and HIV/AIDS control).

Peace Corps volunteers are active in Tanzania. Their projects cover a wide range of activities including wildlife management, teaching, forestry, and agricultural mechanics.

The Mining Sector
Minerals are exploited only on the mainland. Diamond production from the mines near Shinyanga declined considerably since the 1967 peak of 998,000 carats. The deposits are owned by the government and private business. Dr. John Thoburn Williams a Canadian discovered Williamson in 1940. The mine has been exchanging hands since 1958 and the government acquiring 75% of the shares up to 1993. In 1994 the DeBeers group purchased the government share leaving it with 25% to date. Production at the Williamson mine increased substantially in 1999 and 2000 owing to the reprocessing of old tailings. In 2000, the mine produced 317,000 carats valued at $46 millions. The Diamond Resources estimated to be 6.5 million carats.

In 2002, the mining sector grew by 15.0 percent compared to 13.5% in 2001. The contribution of the mining sector to the Gross Domestic Product in 2002, increased to 2.7% compared to 2.5% in 2001. The mining sector expected to contribute significantly in medium and long term in the increasing employment opportunities, additional revenue to the government, facilitating the manufacturing sector, enhancing availability of foreign exchange, and contributing towards combating poverty.
Other important mineral products are gold, nickel, copper, natural gas, coal and salt, Tanzanite, a gemstone unique to Tanzania other gemstones.
The composition of GDP is such that, agricultural sector accounts for around 50.0%, followed by trade sector which accounts for around 16.0%. Financial and business services rank third at the tune of 10.0%, followed by the industrial sector by around 8.0%. The mining sector has been contributing around 2.0%, but there is a bright future for the sector as foreign investments continue to flow in. It is apparent that in the near future the sector will record a significant proportion of GDP.

Agriculture Sector
With regard to sectoral growth in 2002, the agriculture sector grew by 5.0%, which was below the sector growth of 5.5% in 2001. The main contribution to the sector growth in 2002 was from growth of the sub- sectors of livestock (3.5%) forestry and hunting (3.0%) and fisheries (6.5%). The sub- sector of agricultural crops production, which is the main contributor, grew by 6.2% in 2002 being below the growth of 7.3% in 2001.

Manufacturing
During the 2002, the manufacturing sector had significant achievement whereby the sector grew by 8.0% as compared to the 5.0% in 2001. The rehabilitation of some industries and increase of production and productivity are among the causes of this growth.

Communications and Transport
During 2002, transport and communications sector grew by 6.4% 2002 compared to 6.3% in 2001. This level of growth shows that the sector is increasingly becoming stable as most of the telecommunication subsector, road haulage, and airfreight currently owned and managed by the private sector. This phenomenon has contributed to the GDP growth from to 5.4% in 2001 to 5.5% 2002.

Transportation Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:57 AM

Transportation can be a source of entertainment in Dar es Salaam and throughout the country. Depending on the time of year, the state of the roads can range from good to passable to abominable (with the worst conditions usually follow the rainy season). Pot holes can grow overnight. Vehicles with four wheel drive and a high clearance are strongly encourage.

Automobiles Last Updated: 9/30/2005 2:43 AM

Driving is on the left-hand side. Left-hand drive vehicles are allowed, but for safety and maintenance upkeep, one should purchase right-hand drive vehicles. Both new and used right-hand drive vehicles are available in Dar es Salaam. Post strongly recommends purchasing a rugged, fuel-efficient four-wheel-drive vehicle. Vehicles should have high clearance, special heavy-duty suspension and tires. The rutted, pot-holed, paved, and dirt roads in the city and countryside are hazardous for low-slung cars.

Diplomatic-list Mission personnel may import two duty-free vehicles. All other Mission personnel may import one duty-free vehicle within the first 12 months of their arrival at post. The only fee charged is a Tshs 20,000 ($25) fee for license plates. Contact the administrative officer of your respective agency before purchasing or shipping a vehicle to post. A local driver's license is required for Mission employees. To acquire the local license you must have two black-and-white passport-sized photographs, a copy of your current U.S. driver's license, or an International driver's license. A fee of Tshs 500 is charged for the binder for the license.

Official vehicles or transportation to and from work are provided for the Ambassador, DCM, and the USAID director. Transportation to and from work is available at a nominal fee for those awaiting arrival of their vehicles. Many employees purchase used vehicles locally. Newly assigned personnel may wish to determine if departing Mission personnel will sell their vehicle. If you desire to purchase a new vehicle, the following heavy duty suspension vehicles are recommended: Land Rover, Toyota Landcruiser, RAV 4 or Hi-Lux (double cabin) pick-up, Mitsubishi Pajero (marketed in the United States as the Montero), Isuzu Trooper, Nissan Patrol, Suzuki, or Daihatsu jeep-type vehicles. Dealerships are available for all of these vehicles but they may not have needed spare parts in stock. Average delivery time for vehicles ordered through these dealers is 2 months if ordered from Japan, or 30 days or less if ordered from bonded stock. General Motors (Kenya) LTD, assembles the Isuzu Trooper in neighboring Kenya. Isuzu's local dealer is Dunhill Motors, and you can order in country. Reconditioned Japanese vehicles can also be imported at lower costs. U.S. makes are not recommended due to service/parts problems.

Parts for American cars are not available, and service facilities for all makes of whatever country of origin are inadequate. Import parts regardless of the car's country of origin. Most spae parts are available for the recommended vehicles, but the supply is not consistent. If you are bringing a car with you from the US, bring spare parts with you, or locate a supplier before you depart who will be able to send you any needed parts.

All vehicles must carry third-party-liability insurance that costs approximately $55 locally (Tshs.50,000 ) per year. This must be obtained from a local insurance company. Comprehensive insurance is available from a local insurance company, as well, although it may be obtained from an American company, should you prefer.

Only leaded gasoline, commonly referred to as petrol, is available at this time in Tanzania. Diesel fuel is plentiful and in some locales may be more readily available than gasoline. Current prices are Tshs 1,120 ($1) per liter for petrol fuel and Tshs 800 - 880 ($ 0.85) per liter for diesel fuel. This is the duty free/vat free price. Fuel is available from an Embassy fuel station, and from two BP stations in town.

The absence of unleaded fuel at post means that catalytic converters will be destroyed unless removed. Local technical skills may be limited, especially if your converter uses sensors feeding a central computer chip in your ignition control system. Post recommends that you remove the catalytic converter at your current post or in the U.S., and that you store the converter and controls, so that you have the option of restoring it later. Alternatively, some owners have simply left the converter in place and driven with the leaded fuel. While this will disable the converter and your car will continue to run, you will not be able to take the car back to the U.S. Another option is to make arrangements to have the converter removed after arrival at Post, this is an employee expense and can not be claimed on your travel voucher.

Local Transportation Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:59 AM

Use of locally operated vans or mini-buses, known as dala-dalas, is strongly discouraged. These vehicles are mostly overcrowded, poorly maintained and targets for petty thieves. American Embassy staff generally do not use buses. Bus service is available in and around Dar es Salaam and upcountry, but schedules are not kept and routes are inadequate. Many buses are crowded, and unsafe.

Somewhat more reliable, taxis are available 24 hours daily at a few locations, including the Royal Palm Hotel and the Seacliff Hotel. Drivers charge flat rates per trip. Agree on the rate in advance. If you do not, you will arrive at your destination and have to pay a price on demand as taxi drivers will try to take advantage of the passenger's ignorance of taxi fees. The Security Office discourages the use of taxis for safety reasons.

If airport-to-hotel or hotel-to-airport service is needed, the Embassy travel agent can arrange for car/minibus pick-up and delivery for $20 one way. The American Embassy Recreation Association of Dar es Salaam (AERA) will provide after hours restaurant and shopping transportation services between 1600 and 2300 weeknights and from 0900 to 2000 on weekends and holidays at a nominal fee. Car rental may be an option if you are familiar with the roads and with driving on the left side of the road. However, car rental should not be attempted if you have no such experience!

Regional Transportation Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:59 AM

From the Dar es Salaam International Airport, flights are available to several points in Europe and East Africa. At least one European airline is scheduled almost every day between Dar es Salaam and various European cities. Flights and connections to African locations are fewer and less convenient; most are via Nairobi or Johannesburg. Air Tanzania provides domestic and some regional service, but due to overbooking and maintenance problems, delays and cancellation of flights are common.

Dar es Salaam is the ocean terminus of the railway that runs 900 miles to Kigoma on Lake Tanganyika, and to Mwanza on Lake Victoria. Full train service with sleeping and dining cars runs daily, but there are sometimes lengthy delays and occasional derailments. The Chinese-built Ihara Railway, or TAZARA, as it is more commonly known, running 1,000 miles from Dar es Salaam to New Kapri-Mposhi, Zambia, began passenger service in October 1975 and now operates four round-trips weekly. Facilities on passenger trains are far below American standards, but a trip can be a unique experience for those looking for adventure. The railway is not well used by the diplomatic community due to its lengthy delays and inconsistent schedule.

Tanzania has 9,500 kilometers of roads, only 2,600 kilometers of which are paved. Many are badly deteriorated but an extensive World Bank integrated roads program is beginning to reverse that trend. One main paved 483-mile road runs between Dodoma and Dar es Salaam. This road connects with the main road system in Tanzania and East Africa and provide connections to Tanga, Arusha, Nairobi, and Mbeya, among other locations. It is not recommended that one drive at night outside Dar es Salaam even on good roads.

Communications Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:59 AM

Communication technologies in Tanzania are slowly developing; however, they are nowhere near what can be found in other African countries. Telephone lines are occasionally down, and mobile telephone services not always continual. The Internet service is very slow but fairly reliable, although providers are frequently over-subscribed. Still, the infrastructure exists and the demand is there; it is just a matter of being able to meet the demand with adequate services.

Telephones and Telecommunications Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:16 AM

Tanzania has local, long-distance, and international telephone service. Direct dialing of international calls is available. A station to station call to the U.S. in 2005 cost about $1.70 per minute but rates are soon t be approximately .75 per minute.

The monthly rental rate for telephone lines is $3.50 per month plus the cost of each call. Local calls are billed at the rate of $0.02 per minute. Long-distance calls are billed at the rate of $0.04 per minute to $0.24 per minute, depending on the distance. Telephone charges are the employee's responsibility. Residential bills are not itemized. It is recommended that home telephones have a password installed to prevent unauthorized usage of the line, as wire tapping is commonplace. Telephone service is quite erratic; outages of telephone service occur frequently.

See the Wireless Service section for more information on cellular phone service.

The Embassy has 6 IVG lines. The lines are first and foremost for business-related phone calls to other posts, and to Washington. After-hours and on weekends, the line may be used for personal phone calls. The line calls to Washington and the surrounding area for no cost; calls to the rest of the U.S. can be made using a long distance calling company or phone cards. Be sure to bring calling cards with you to post.

VHF radios are provided for all employees for emergency communications. Post recommends employees carry their radios with them at all times.

Wireless Service Last Updated: 9/29/2005 10:00 AM
Post supplies cell phones to direct hire employees for business-related phone calls. Personal phone calls made on the phones are the responsibility of the employee. Generally, cell phones purchased in the U.S. will not work in Tanzania. If the cell phone is "international", SIMM cards are readily avialable. Pay-as-you-go cell phone service is also available.

The cell phones themselves are fairly priced; phones found in Europe and in the U.S. are usually more expensive, but may offer a wider selection and/or more features.

Cellular phone bills are itemized. The prices for cellular phone calls in 2003 are as follows:

A cellular call to the U.S. is billed at the rate of $1.70 per off-peak minute, and $1.80 per peak minute.
A call from cell phone to cell phone within Tanzania is billed at the rate of $0.17 - $0.20 per off-peak minute to $0.30 per peak minute.
A call from cell phone to landline within Tanzania is billed at the rate of $0.11 per off-peak minute to $0.25 per peak minute.
Cellular service is very reliable and available almost continuously throughout the country. Post recommends employees carry their cell phones with them at all times.

Internet Last Updated: 9/29/2005 10:01 AM

Post provides wireless internet service to all residences. The service can be unreliable at times, with access speed varying, but generally service is continuous.

The embassy has OpenNet Plus, which allows Internet access from individual workstations. OpenNet Plus service is very reliable. Access to certain websites is restricted.

Mail and Pouch Last Updated: 9/29/2005 10:02 AM

Authorized personnel are encouraged to use pouch facilities for both personal mail and packages as specified by Department of State regulations. The post receives two air pouches a week from Washington, D.C. International mail generall takes 10 - 14 days for First Class mail. Pouch mail can take between 17 to 24 days. The post receives surface-to-air pouches from the Department for personal packages and periodicals; inbound mail should not exceed overall measurements of 17 x 18 x 32 inches, and not weigh over 50 pounds.

The mailing addresses are:

Official Mail

State, DAO and CDC personnel
(Name)
Department of State
2140 Dar es Salaam Place
Washington, D.C.
20521-2140

USAID
(Name)
USAID
2140 Dar es Salaam Place
Washington, D.C.
20521-2140

Personal Mail

(Name) 2140 Dar es Salaam Place, Dulles, VA 20189-2140

Radio and TV Last Updated: 9/29/2005 10:02 AM

Tanzania mainland has 31 independent radio stations which broadcast locally in Kiswahili and in English on medium-wave, short-wave and FM (stereo/monophonic). Others broadcast in Kiswahili only. Programs consist of music, news, and special features. A good shortwave receiver can pick up stations from Europe and the U.S., as well as Nairobi. Schedules for Voice of America broadcasts are available on the website: http://www.ibb.gov or http://www.voanews.com/.
Post recommends you bring a good quality short-wave radio with you. They are occasionally available locally, but for a high price.
The Government of Tanzania (GOT) owns 2 radio stations, both located on mainland. One broadcasts in both Kiswahili and in English, and the other in Kiswahili only. The GOT also owns a television station which recently joined with its radio counterpart to form "Taasisi ya Utangazaji (TUT)" (meaning "Tanzania Broadcasting Services (TBS)". Both the radio and television stations cover the whole country. The television station is up-linked to a satellite.
In Tanzania, there are 11 private television stations, 17 cable stations, 21 cable television operators, and 17 television operators, all on the mainland. Four stations are up-linked to satellite, which can then be downloaded all around the country and abroad. A good antenna is required to pick up these stations. Standard U.S. televisions cannot use the signal; one must use a multi-system set. The television signal in Tanzania is UHF/VHF, Pal I. Direct TV (satellite) reception is also available.
The Government of Zanzibar runs 1 medium-wave and 2 FM radio stations and 1 television station. One FM radio station is a BBC affiliate. Discussions are in progress with VOA and PAS officials to have the other FM radio station become a VOA affiliate.
Post has an embassy television system with downloads AFN and Multi-Choice DSTV which is then distributed to various offices. Post provides AFN satellite decoders and dishes for all resident homes.
Mission VHF radio net operations will be explained to all official newcomers upon arrival to post.
The American Club rents recent release DVDs to its members.
Electrical current in Tanzania is 220-240v 50-Hz. Random power surges and outages are frequent. Bring protectors or uninterruptible power supply cables (UPS) for computers and other sensitive equipment. See the Utilities and Equipment section for more information on the electric current in Tanzania.

Newspapers, Magazines, and Technical Journals Last Updated: 9/29/2005 8:45 AM

There are five daily English-language newspapers, which cover world events, as well as local news. There are also 6 English-language weeklies available in Dar es Salaam. There are 8 daily and 11 Kiswahili weekly newspapers.

The International Herald Tribune is available by postal subscriptions for about $650 per year. It arrives at least 4 days after publication (street vendors frequently have it within 2 days of publications at about $4 per copy). The Kenya Daily Nation is available on the day of publication and is sold for Tshs 1,000 per copy.

Local bookstores carry many international magazines and paperbacks but they are expensive. Current issues of periodicals from the region are also frequently available from the street vendors. The Embassy receives the International Herald Tribune, Time, Newsweek, U.S. News and World Report and the Economist. USAID also receives several international and regional magazines and journals.

The Dar es Salaam Public Library has an aging collection of books for children and adults. The British Council has a very good collection of books. At the Embassy, the Community Liaison Office maintains a limited lending library. It includes travel books, some novels, brochures and catalogs. The CLO also has an East Africa Library, which includes books about the history of the region, religious development, economic and cultural topics, and a number of travel and coffeetable books, as well as film documentaries about the region.

The Mission Information Resource Center (IRC) is designed to meet the needs of professionals in the fields of economics, international affairs, management, business, journalism, social sciences, technology, education, history, and communications. The IRC is open to the general public.

Health and Medicine Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:33 AM

The Medical Unit is part of the overseas health maintenance system. It is the Embassy's primary resource for health care. Its mission is to promote health care and facilitate secondary and tertiary care to all mission personnel and their families. It is equipped to handle minor trauma and simple minor surgery procedures. It is not a hospital, but in most types of emergencies a patient can be cared for until an evacuation can be arranged to a facility outside of Tanzania, where more capable facilities are available. It has no X-ray, but has a laboratory where 97% of our routine tests needed for basic primary care can be performed. A pharmacy is located in the Unit, stocked with limited quantities and types of drugs.

The Medical Unit is located on the ground floor of the Embassy, just off the atrium. The current staff includes a physician, a British nurse, one US-registered RN, and one laboratory technician. Dr. Soter da Silva is the physician and Post Medical Advisor. He has been working with the Embassy for 22 years. Audrey Yohani is a British RN, and Vincent Ndowo is the Tanzanian laboratory technician. Both have more than 10 years service with the Embassy. All are full time employees of the Embassy.

Clinic hours are 0730 to 1700 Monday to Thursday and 0730 to 1130 on Friday. The Medical Unit has a 24/7 on call schedule. After hours on call are shared between the physician and the nurse as per the on call duty roster.

The Regional Medical Officer, Regional Medical Psychiatrist and Regional FSNP (Foreign Service Nurse Practitioner) are all stationed in Nairobi. The RMO and the RMO/Psychiatrist visit post two to three times a year. We also have a Regional Medical Technologist, base in Cairo who visits post twice a year to keep track of our laboratory services. Nairobi or Pretoria are our designated Medical evacuation points, but at the decision of the RMO and M/MED you could be evacuated to London or Washington DC.

No charges are made for the medical services that are rendered to official Americans in the Medical Unit, but there may be a charge for the radiology tests and laboratory tests performed in other medical facilities in Dar es Salaam or elsewhere. You would be notified if this happens.

Besides acute care, health care and disease prevention, the Medical Unit works with Occupational Safety administrator on Health care maintenance (e.g. food and water safety, HIV/AIDS education, etc.).

Medical Facilities Last Updated: 9/29/2005 10:03 AM

Since Tanzania legalized private medical practice, clinics and small hospitals have mushroomed in Dar es Salaam and other towns. However, the quality of care is often questionable. Muhimbili Medical Centre, the public referral hospital, is the main source of specialist medical care for the general population, and has many well-trained physicians working under severe constraints due to financial limitations.

Muhimbili Orthopedic Institute, has private rooms and some good surgeons for more individualized care.

The Aga Khan Hospital has a small Acute Care ward and good X-ray and sonogram facilities. It also has good private rooms.

Mission employees are advised to have a dental exam before they arrive at post, but in case of need, the Medical Unit at the Embassy can recommend dental clinics for basic care. Optical services are also available at several locations.

The Embassy has a well-equipped Medical Unit for use by Mission members. It is designed to provide emergency treatment for most situations. The Medical Unit can provide most services normally found in the office of a small family practitioner in the U.S. It has a small pharmacy, a well-equipped laboratory, and a one-hospital-bed unit that can be used in an emergency. It is staffed by a full-time U.K-trained Tanzanian physician. Additional staff include: a U.K-trained Registered Nurse, a part-time U.S-certified Registered Nurse, and a Laboratory Technician.

Persons who require surgery or who have medical problems that cannot be handled in Dar es Salaam are medevaced to Nairobi, Pretoria, London, or the U.S.

Employees are advised to bring prescriptions for ongoing medical problems, as well as birth control supplies, over-the-counter medication, lotions and sunscreen, extra eyeglasses, and sunglasses.

The post has no facilities for handicapped family members needing special care.

Community Health Last Updated: 9/29/2005 10:03 AM

The level of sanitation in Tanzania requires special measures. Tap water is not safe to drink until it is filtered and boiled or otherwise disinfected. The streets in Dar es Salaam are piled with garbage, due to irregular pickup. It is strongly recommended to disinfect all fruits and vegetables before eating.

Mosquito and fly control measures are necessary. Residences are equipped with screens on the windows and mosquito nets for each occupied bed.

A number of diseases now rare in the United States are endemic to Tanzania. These include bacterial meningitis, cholera, rabies, plague, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS and a variety of parasitic infections.

Preventive Measures Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:36 AM

Simple precautions will offer more than adequate protection from any of the common medical problems. Don't eat or drink anything unless you know that it has been properly cleaned and disinfected. Don't go near animals unless you are certain that they are not infected with rabies or other transmittable animal-borne diseases. Make sure all your recommended vaccinations and inoculations are up to date.

Chloroquine-resistant malaria is endemic to Tanzania. Several measures are recommended to limit mosquito bites. Sleep under mosquito nets, use mosquito repellent, wear protective clothing, and ensure that the windows are adequately screened. Use recommended insecticides to kill the mosquitoes inside the house.

Antimalarial medication is provided for members of the Mission. The current recommendations are:

(1) Mefloquine weekly;
(2) Doxycycline 100mg daily; or
(3) Malarone daily.

Mefloquine has now been approved for use during pregnancy and for infants and children. Side effects can include gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, headache and, rarely, psychotic episodes. However, certain people shouldn't take it:
Anyone taking beta-blockers or blood pressure medication; anyone with cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heart beats) or conduction abnormalities (heart block); or anyone with a history of epilepsy, seizures or a significant psychiatric history.
Doxycycline is an alternative but can cause photosensitivity usually manifested by exaggerated sunburn. Pregnant women or children below the age of 8 years old cannot take it. It could cause vaginitis in females.
Malarone taken daily is an alternative to the other two medications listed above. It should not be given to preganant women or women who are breast feeding, or to infants weighing less than 11 kilograms. It is also contraindicated for patients with severe renal impairment. Malarone has very few side effects.
Whatever regime is used, the drug must be taken continuously and for four weeks after departure with the exception of malarone which is taken for a week after departure. Refills for the prophylaxis are available by perscription from post.

The fluoride level in the city water is deficient and children between 6 months and 16 years should take daily supplements. Tablets and liquid are available at the Medical Unit.

Acquired Immunity Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a very serious problem in Tanzania. A high percentage of the population are HIV positive and the Government is now beginning to develop strategic plans to deal with this escalating problem. It is well documented that the virus can be acquired from the transmission of infected body fluids from one individual to another by sexual contact, contaminated blood or blood products, or dirty instruments.

With personal prevention, exposure to the virus can be avoided.

The Medical Unit maintains a Walking Blood Bank for emergency transfusion when required. The Medical Unit staff will provide a questionnaire for completion at the time of your orientation.

Employment for Spouses and Dependents Last Updated: 9/29/2005 10:04 AM

Although employment opportunities in particular career fields are quite limited, the Mission's policy is to seek employment opportunities for all spouses who wish to work. Although the types of jobs are limited, recent experience at post is that we have had more jobs available than we have had adult dependents seeking them. The AERA currently employs one full-time manager. Teachers can sometimes find jobs at the International School or at a nursery school, but they are usually not paid in hard currency unless a contract can be negotiated outside the country before arrival. This is very difficult to do. Nurses and other medically trained people are frequently in demand but may not be paid in hard currency.

Tanzanian Government policy gives preference to its citizens for most positions. No reciprocal work agreement exists between Tanzania and the United States. Salaries are low and taxes are high. Everyone must pay taxes on income earned on the local economy.

Every effort is made to find summer and holiday jobs for dependent children 16 years and older.

Mission employment opportunities open to dependents are advertised through HR and the CLO. Any dependents who think they may be interested in working at post should send completed resumes to the CLO and HR as the early as possible.

American Embassy - Dar Es Salaam

Post City Last Updated: 9/30/2005 0:52 AM

Dar es Salaam is the capital of Tanzania, and the seat of the government. The name Dar es Salaam means "Haven of Peace". The city is located on the Indian Ocean coast and occupies an area of 90 square kilometers. It is by some measure the largest city in Tanzania, and has grown rapidly since independence in 1961, roughly tripling its size. Almost all administrative, political and business activity is concentrated in the city although some government bodies and all of the parliamentary sittings are in Dodoma, 480 kilometers to the west.

The city dates from 1857 and was successively under the control of Zanzibar, Germany and Britain before self-determination, and these influences have all left their mark. First impression of the city on the journey in from the airport is of very shabby buildings and a dilapidated infrastructure. There is a marked contrast between the conditions of ordinary people (walking long distances, crowded on buses and makeshift transport, living in ramshackle dwellings, operating small businesses from temporary shelters) on the one hand, and the bureaucratic, business and international community which enjoys much higher standards. However, on closer acquaintance with Dar es Salaam, visitors are invariably surprised by the wealth of historical interest that has survived, appreciate the splendid coastal location, warm to the friendliness and relaxed manner of the inhabitants, and learn to seek out the special pleasures the city has to offer, many of which are not always apparent to the casual observer.

There is a saying in Dar es Salaam, "The city has sun, climate, location -- everything, in fact, except luck."

Security Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:23 AM

The Regional Security Office is dedicated to make your tour in Tanzania a safe one. While we all face the reality of crime and the worldwide possibility of a terrorist incident, it is possible to enjoy a normal life in Dar es Salaam.
The Department of State has designated Dar es Salaam as a critical threat crime post.

Crime is an increasing concern in both urban and rural areas of Tanzania. Incidents including muggings, vehicle thefts (including car jacking, although these are rare) and residential break-ins. Crime and hazardous road conditions make driving at night or in remote areas dangerous.

Incidents of street crimes have been perpetrated by armed and unarmed robbers, usually in parks and beaches or along footpaths and roadways. Thieves on buses and trains prey on inattentive riders. Employees should avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carrying large amounts of cash while on the street. It is always advisable to travel in groups both during the day and night. When traveling by car, riders should keep the doors locked and windows rolled up. Employees should be alert and maintain high security awareness at all times.

All residences have alarm systems, security lights and 24-hour guards on duty. Tests of the system are conducted regularly. Each residence also is equipped with a signal for the guards so they may open the gate for the approaching resident vehicle, reducing the time the car must sit waiting.

Please note that importation of firearms into Tanzania and licensing are difficult and time consuming. The Tanzanian Government and the U.S. Mission strictly enforce regulations pertaining to firearms. Holders of diplomatic passports can introduce weapons into Tanzania provided they meet the criteria of post officials and conform to Tanzanian standards and procedures. Employees wishing to import firearms must route their requests through the Regional Security Officer (RSO).

The Regional Security Office requires that all employees receive a post-specific security briefing on arrival.

The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 9/30/2005 2:27 AM

The U.S. Mission to Tanzania includes the offices of the Ambassador, DCM, political/economic/commercial section, public affairs, consular, regional affairs, defense attache office, regional security and administrative offices. The Mission is located on a 21-acre compound at 686 Msasani, Kinondoni District; telephone (255) 22-2668001, fax (255) 22-2668238.

The USAID building, co-located with the Chancery, consists of ten Americans and seven contract officers. The USAID primary telephone number is (255) 22-2668490.

Peace Corps is located at 36A Zambia Drive, Oyster Bay, telephone (255) 22-2667372 or 2667365. Tanzania has over 120 volunteers.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is colocated within a main office on the grounds of the National Institute for Medical Research on Lithuli Road, telephone (255) 22-2121440, fax (255) 22-2121462.

The Embassy provides varying degrees of support to all agencies through the ICASS system. Most American employees are paid out of FSC Charleston. Office hours for the Mission are 7:30 am to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Friday.

Housing Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:24 AM

The Housing Pool consists of a number of government-owned, as well as short and long-term lease houses. The majority of the houses are on the Msasani Peninsula, with a few other loose clusters of homes in other neighborhoods. Most homes have small gardens. The homes are maintained by the Facilities Maintenance staff, and a recently implemented Preventative Maintenance schedule.

The homes are furnished, and provided with a range/stove, refrigerator, microwave oven, water distiller, freezer, washer, dryer, and vacuum. All homes have screened windows, several air-conditioner units and a number of dehumidifiers. Bedrooms are outfitted with mosquito bednets. The houses run on the 220V. Each house is provided with 3 transformers.

Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:25 AM

Most staff move into permanent housing immediately upon arrival at post. Occasionally, a new arrival may have to stay in a hotel for a short period while his/her quarters are made ready. Post makes every attempt to limit this time as much as possible.

Permanent Housing Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:25 AM

The U.S. Government owns a number of houses in Dar es Salaam, including those of the Ambassador, DCM, and USAID Director.

Most housing is about 5 miles from downtown in or near the suburbs of Oyster Bay and Msasani. The houses are an average of 10 minutes driving time from the Mission compound. Generally, houses have between two-five bedrooms, a living room, dining room, large kitchen, study/family room and several bathrooms. Some yards are spacious, but gardening in Dar es Salaam is a challenge due to a combination of heat and poor soil quality and quantity. The Mission housing pool consists of single unit houses. The Mission operates a single unified housing pool. All agencies at post participate. All housing units for all agencies are furnished.

The Ambassador's residence has three large living rooms, a dining room, study and patio, four bedrooms, three-and-a-half baths, and an upstairs veranda facing the sea. The houses of the Ambassador, DCM, and USAID Director have china, silver, and glassware.

Furnishings Last Updated: 9/30/2005 2:39 AM

The U.S. Government supplies all basic furniture and appliances, including tables, lamps, draperies, rugs, air-conditioners, refrigerators, freezers, stoves, washers and dryers, vacuum cleaners, water distillers and floor polishers for Mission employees. Uniform State/USAID regulation 6 FAM 780 details furnishings provided.

Bring knickknacks, books, pictures, scatter rugs, dishes, glassware, flatware, kitchen utensils, linens, food storage containers, and an ironing board and iron (220v). Bring all small appliances such as toasters, mixers, bread makers, ice cream makers with you. See the utilities section for more information on electricity. Other useful items to bring are a sewing machine, fabrics, patterns and notions, plastic clothes hangers, barbecue grill, picnic equipment (cooler), snack trays, and all sporting, beach and camping equipment. Personal items may suffer some from the salt air and high humidity. Bring saddle soap for the care of leather goods that can become mildewed rather easily in the hot humid climate found in Dar es Salaam.

Local custom and readymade, new and used furniture is available, although expensive and of varying quality. Zanzibar-style intricately carved wooden furniture items are generally considered a good value, but care must be taken to ensure that properly cured wood is used.

Curtain and drapery materials are available, but are costly and of inferior quality. Upholstery and slipcover work is good and reasonably priced and in certain cases paid for by the USG.

Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:26 AM

Electric current in Dar es Salaam is 220v, 50-cycle, 3-phase, AC. Line voltage fluctuates widely and power outages occur frequently, particularly during hours of peak usage. Power surges can cause serious damage to electrical equipment and appliances. For sensitive equipment such as computers, use a voltage regulator or Uninterruptible Power Source (UPS). Post provides one (1) UPS per residence. If additional UPS are desired, it is the responsibility of the occupants. UPS are available locally for reasonable prices.

Government-furnished quarters have a supply of stepdown transformers to operate American 120v appliances. If you own transformers - bring them. Bring electric appliances such as toasters, irons, coffee makers, hot trays, mixers, and blenders. These items can run on transformers if they are 120v, 60-cycle; it is worth noting that 220v, 50-cycle appliances work better and these are available in the U.S. from a number of suppliers, though they tend to be more expensive than 120v items. Many 220v items are available locally, and are of varying quality. Electric appliances with 60-cycle timing mechanisms (record turntables, tape recorders, and videotape recorders) will not function correctly on local power without adjustments or modifications. Although it is possible to have such modifications done locally, you may want to have them done before shipping to post. If you have a computer, bring a UPS to avoid loss of data in the event of a power outage. An UPS wopuld be useful to have for your television, as well.

All Government-provided houses have phones and all American residences are also equipped with VHF radios and base/charger units.

Food Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:28 AM

Prices are high due to transport costs. If you are authorized a consumables allowance, plan to use it fully during your tour. If possible, you may want to wait until after your arrival to make your consumables order. This would allow you to see what is avialable locally, and tailor your order to include only what you cannot find or is overly expensive. Another option might be to do a portion of the order prior to your arrival and then do the rest of the order after you have arrived and had the chance to see what is and is not available locally. The Community Liaison Office has a list of suggested consumables available.

A selection of fresh fruits and vegetables are available seasonally. Green beans, tomatoes, cauliflower, carrots, eggplant, onions, potatoes, and garlic are of fair-to-good quality and available most of the year. Tropical fruits such as coconuts, pineapples, papayas, bananas, limes, avocados, watermelons and mangoes are plentiful, but seasonal. You can find apples and oranges pretty regularly.

The quality of local fresh meat varies; however, it is adequate for most needs. Beef, pork, lamb, chicken, and eggs are available. Shrimp, lobster, crab and fish are excellent, plentiful, and not overly expensive.

As of February 2005, the amount of items imported from South Africa is growing monthly. The problem is that an item may be imported one week, but then not the next. The supply is very sporadic and not necessarily reliable. So there may be times when you must use substitutions in your recipes.

Clothing Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:28 AM

Tanzanian customs, combined with the climate, make Dar es Salaam an informal post. Tropical clothing is worn all year round. Bring underwear, bathing suits, and shoes for the whole family. Local shoes are of poor quality, and sizes and widths differ from the U.S. Bring a supply of warm clothing for trips upcountry during the dry season and to Europe or the U.S. for R&R. Because a 2- or 3-year supply of clothing and shoes is difficult to plan, many people order by catalog from the U.S. The CLO maintains a catalog collection for this purpose. Ordering on the Internet is also a viable option.

Drycleaning facilities are available, but not always up to U.S. standards. Dry cleaning is not overly expensive; washable fabrics are recommended, if at all possible.

Men Last Updated: 9/29/2005 8:48 AM

Men wear short-sleeved shirts to the office and to most evening gatherings. Other than at the annual Marine Ball, men seldom wear dinner jackets or other formal wear. Sports clothes are similar to those worn in the warmer regions of the U.S. Most social functions are informal; business suits are now often worn to diplomatic functions, but a shirt and tie are almost always acceptable.

Women Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:29 AM

Women need washable trousers, tops, and/or skirts, and dresses for daytime wear both in and out of the office. Informal long or short dresses or skirts are common for most evening occasions; caftans or evening dresses are worn to receptions and more formal dinners. A lightweight sweater or shawl is useful for evenings in the cooler season. Pantyhose or stockings are seldom worn. Miniskirts and low-cut blouses or dresses should not be worn to the office or city center, as it is offensive in a Muslim culture. Sundresses, jeans, modest shorts, and T-shirts are acceptable for non-business occasions.

Children Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:29 AM

Please see the school section for school uniforms. Bring comfortable summer-weight clothes and sneakers or sandals. Sun hats and surf tops are useful for trips to the beach. Bring beach toys and gear for all ages as it is not available locally.

Office Attire Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:42 AM

Office attire consists of summer dresses, skirts and slacks for women, and slacks, polos or short-sleeve button-up shirts and slacks for men. Due to the heat and humidity outside, the air-conditioner is fully-utilized in offices, so some employees prefer to wear a cardigan or light sweater while at work.

Supplies and Services Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:43 AM

Supplies such as housewares and electronics are becoming more and more available. Unfortunately, the majority of the products are shipped-in (mainly from South Africa, the Middle East, and Europe), and the prices attached can be a bit higher than the U.S. Still, it is nice to see a better selection of products on the store shelves. Generally, the 220 v appliances function well; they do often have to be modified with a new plug to be used in the outlets here. This is an easy procedure that any novice handy person can do with simple tools.

Cleaning supplies are mostly brands from South Africa and the Middle East. They work fine, but again somewhat higher in price than the U.S.

Generally, the best advice is if you have a prefered brand or style of a product, it is best bring it with you.

Supplies Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:43 AM

Bring all entertainment and holiday accessories, including an artificial Christmas tree and ornaments. Fresh Christmas trees are available just a few days before Christmas, but generally are not satisfactory, having scrawny branches and tending to dry out in a matter of days.

U.S.-brand toys are not usually available. The prices, availability, and quality of toys imported from Asia and Europe vary widely, and generally are overpriced and poorly made.

Bring records, tapes, CDs, DVDs, film, and, if you sew, fabric and all notions. Fabrics are available locally, but quality and prices vary; some are quite beautiful, but can be very expensive. A tool kit is handy (hammer, screwdriver, drill, screws, nails). Artists should bring canvases, paints, and other art supplies. If you have a hobby, plan to bring whatever you need with you to post. Additional supplies can be purchased via the Internet.

Bring a generous supply of books for the entire family and subscribe to your favorite magazines.

Bring a supply of heartworm prophylaxis for cats and dogs and flea and tick control. If you have a preferred brand of pet food, bring a good supply. If you keep it in a cold storage room, it should last about one year. The local vet does have a supply of heartworm and flea/tick prophylaxis, but occasionally his supply runs low.

Bring spare parts for your car. Spare tires are available, but expensive and of poor quality.

The beach is easily accessible but beach toys and parephenalia is not. Be sure to bring your gear with you. Snorkeling, scuba, water toys, sand toys, etc are all useful.

Basic Services Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:44 AM

Tailoring services are available, but workmanship is fair.

Dry cleaning is available, and not overly-expensive, but the service quality may vary. Washable farbics are recommended.

Film developing for prints is available, with good quality, but it is expensive.

Basic repairs for appliances and electronic equipment are available if parts are available. Reasonable basic TV and video repair and maintenance services are available.

Mechanical services are readily available, but can vary widely. Most Toyota, Nissan, and Range Rover vehicles have parts available; owners of U.S. models may find it difficult to find knowledgeable mechanics and/or necessary parts.

There is an excellent local framing shop with good prices.

Domestic Help Last Updated: 9/29/2005 8:56 AM

Most expatriate families in Dar es Salaam employ domestic help according to the size of the household and family need. An average wage, paid in shillings of $100 per month prevails. Household employees work according to guidelines set forth by the Tanzanian Government. The Tanzanian Government requires all employers to carry workers' compensation policies for their staffs. This policy is inexpensive and obtained locally. Domestics are hired on a trial basis for a period of 3 months; after that they become permanent and receive separation pay if dismissed or when the employer departs post. Training and guidance are necessary.

Domestic workers include cooks, general and laundry domestics, kitchen helpers, nursemaids, and gardeners. Many domestics do more than one job. A single employee may hire one or two persons, depending on the size of the residence, to do everything except gardening. Many families hire a cook-steward; an assistant who cleans, irons, and does other chores; and a gardener. Families with young children often hire an "ayah" (nursemaid). Staff members receive overtime pay in the evening for helping at parties or babysitting. Many houses have staff quarters, though frequently domestics are reluctant to live in because of the difficulty of finding alternative housing when their employment is terminated.

The Mission currently contracts a local guard program that provides 24-hour security guards to all residences.

Religious Activities Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:45 AM

Christian denominations in Dar es Salaam include Assemblies of God, Pentecostal, Roman Catholic, Anglican, Presbyterian, Greek Orthodox, Lutheran, Baptist, Seventh-day Adventist, Church of Latter-day Saints and Mennonite. Assemblies of God, Pentecostal, Anglican, Catholic, Presbyterian, Baptist, Church of Latter-Day Saints and Lutheran have Sunday morning services in English. There is no resident Greek Orthodox priest. Dar es Salaam has several Mosques and Hindu Temples, but no Synagogues.

The Community Liaison Office has an up-to-date list of current times for services in English.

Education Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:45 AM

Check the sub files for more details on education.

Dependent Education Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:02 AM

Most Mission families utilize eductational facilities in Dar es Salaam. The International School of Tanganyka is the most popular school of choice. IST has students from pre-K to IB 2 (the equivalent of grade 12). Placement into University from IST has been very good. IST has a web site with further information (www.istafrica.com). A few families have opted for sending their children to boarding schools overseas or in the United States.

At Post Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:13 AM
Most Mission children attend the International School of Tanganyika in Dar es Salaam. Two units, located on separate campuses, comprise the school: Lower School (grades 1 to 5), and Upper School (K1-Grade 5). Note: The USG will only pay for one year of kindergarten.

Grades 9 to 10 are now the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program (IBMYP), which is considered academically rigorous. The IBMYP program is proving popular, and many students are deciding to work on this course of study. The school has now brought its program into conformity with international standards, and the educational program is a standard 12-year program.

Children must have reached the age of 3 or 4 by 1 September to enter pre-K, 5 by September 1 to enter kindergarten, and age 6 by September 1 to enter first grade. The school is very rigid in this regard; no exceptions are made.

Children of 55 nationalities make up an enrollment of 864; about 30 are American. Classes are taught in English, but many students are learning English as a second language. The curriculum is a mixture of British and American curriculae with the British influence stronger at the upper level. Some curricular modifications are made to accommodate the needs of an international student body, e.g., the English-as-a-Second-Language program. The Upper School offers French-language classes.

The school year, approximately August 15 through the first week of July, is divided into three terms with a 3-week vacation at Christmas and two-week breaks in October and at Easter. The Lower and Middle School begin at 7:10 a.m. and end at 1:00 p.m., Monday-Friday. The Upper School begins at 7:10 a.m. and ends at 1:10 p.m., Monday-Friday. Upper-level students in the Upper School also attend afternoon classes twice a week.

The school's policy is to provide space for the children of all expatriates assigned to Tanzania, but spaces fill quickly and are not guaranteed. As soon as you are assigned to Dar es Salaam, contact the school for registration procedures. Contact the CLO for more information, or visit the school's website on the Internet, www.istafrica.com.

An application fee (about $500) and a deposit of $500 per family are required when you arrive. The application fee is not reimbursable. In case of withdrawal during the year, fees for the term in which the child is withdrawn are not refundable. Fees for the remaining full term(s) will be refunded, however, provided that notice of withdrawal is received before the new term begins. Entering students are assessed a capital levy fee of $3,000 for the first child, $2,5000 for the second, and $2,500 for third and subsequent children in the family. Tuition fees per annum are currently:

Pre-School -- $6,785 Kindergarten 1 -- $8,711 Kindergarten 2 -- $8,711 Grades 1 to 5 -- $9,567 Grade 6 to 7 -- $11,386 Grade 8 -- $11,386 Grade 9 -- $12,386 Grade 10 -- $12,421 International Baccalaureate I (IB1)-- $15,830 International Baccalaureate II (IB2) -- $15,830

The fees stated here are for the 2004/2005 academic year and can be expected to be subject to moderate increases in subsequent years.

Students must wear uniforms to school. Both boys and girls wear navy shorts (or skirts) with white, short sleeve polo shirts or with T-shirts on PE days. Both boys and girls wear navy blue shorts and plain white T-shirts for physical education classes twice a week. Either obtain your uniforms before coming to post, or bring fabric with you to have the uniforms made locally. Some readymade uniforms are available, but they are expensive and children may be reluctant to wear them once they see the range of clothing worn to school. Bathing suits are required for swimming lessons.

Both Lower and Upper have their own large playing fields and swimming pool with instruction once a week. Afternoon programs for the children include instruction in art, drama, music, and sports, but enrollment is limited.

A school bus service for Mission children is operated by the AERA.

Dar es Salaam also has a French school with supervised correspondence instruction in French, and a Swedish elementary school with instruction in Swedish.

Several nursery schools are run independently by expatriates for 3- and 4-year olds. The school year follows the International School, and current tuition is approximately $1,000 per term.

Away From Post Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:46 AM
The Departement of State offers an adequate allowance for children in grades 7 to 12 to attend boarding schools away from post. Some families take advantage of these allowances and send their high school-aged children to schools in the U.S. and Europe. CLO maintains a file on frequently utilized boarding schools.

Special Needs Education Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:46 AM

The International School of Tanganyika (IST) located in Dar es Salaam does not have established programs for handicapped children, but they can take children in the Lower and Middle Schools with slight learning disabilities. The needs of each child are taken into account, and evaluated on a case by case basis.

Higher Education Opportunities Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:46 AM

The Alliance Francaise provides French lessons.

The Mission runs an active Kiswahili-language program with a full-time language instructor. Lessons are available during the weekdays. Post also offers a Kiswahili Immersion Course, which is a 4-day course, and includes language lessons, with cultural and historical segments. The course is currently held in Zanzibar.

Some departments at the University of Dar es Salaam conduct seminars in English that are open to the public. Under exceptional circumstances, foreigners can enroll in certain subjects at the University.

Recreation and Social Life Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:06 AM

Tanzania offers a wide variety of options for recreation. Hash House Harriers has runs twice a week. There is a community theatre for the thespians. Also at the Little theatre they often have quiz nights, fiesta nights, movies, etc.... Since October 2003, Dar es Salaam has a three screen movie theatre that shows mostly first run movies and "Bollywood" hits from India.

The Indian Ocean provides a virtual playground for the water sport enthusiast. Many of the local islands are abundant with sea life for snorkeling or diving. The Dar es Salaam Yacht club has a nice beach and has many different fleets of sailboats, motorboats, windsurfers and kayaks. Nearby there are beaches for exploring or just to relax under the thatched roof of the banda.

The Night Life does not really get going until 9:00p.m. There are a few discos and clubs available. Casinos are another option, there are several in Dar es Salaam. More and more good restraunts are opening with a wide variety of ethnic choice at quite reasonable prices.

People may have to use a little creativity to stay busy, but with a little compromise, one can certainly enjoy an entertaining tour here. Please see the sub files for further details.

Sports Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:17 AM

Tanzania is one of the world's principal "big game" countries. The Tanzanian Wildlife Corporation enforces strict control of hunting. Hunting licenses for select game such as impala, warthog, and buffalo are granted to residents from July 1 to December 30 (see Firearms and Ammunition).

Several beaches offer year-round swimming, scuba diving, and snorkeling. Sailing, fishing, and shelling are also favorite pastimes. You can keep both sail and powerboats at the Yacht Club. Boats are often available for purchase from people leaving the area. Contact the General Services Office for information governing any import restrictions on boats.

Resort hotels offer scuba diving "discovery dives," certification courses and leisure dives. The courses and dives are very reasonably priced.

The Gymkhana Sports Club has tennis courts and an 18-hole golf course of fair quality with black sand "greens." Lessons in tennis and golf are offered. Squash courts are maintained. The club sponsors cricket, soccer, hockey, and rugby teams.

Membership in the Gymkhana Club can take some time to acquire. It is based on a British membership system that requires that prospective members be sponsored and seconded by current members. Americans frequently find this tedious, but it can be an entertaining experience if approached in the right spirit. The Yacht Club also has a sponsorship memebership, but grants new members access almost immediatley as prospective members. Both of these clubs have members from a variety of cultures, races, and ethnic groups, and each provides multiple opportunities for socializing outside the official American community.

The International School pool is open to school families. The Embassy has a slow pitch softball team that plays on the school fields.

The AERA has a recreation center with a restaurant, pool, and tennis court. Monthly dues are currently $50 for families, $40 for couples, and $30 for singles. The restaurant provides excellent value for the money and a pleasant atmosphere, and offers CNN and other TV channels through a satellite dish.

The amateur mountain climber can try to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. It is an extremely long, but nontechnical hike. Tanzanian law requires that experienced guides take climbing parties up the mountain. Children under age 12 are not allowed to climb. You do not need special equipment, but warm clothing and comfortable climbing shoes are necessary. Almost everything that is needed can be rented from nearby hotels.

Bring to post all sports equipment, including tennis racquets and balls; golf clubs and balls; snorkels and masks; softballs, bats, and gloves; beach and scuba diving gear. Mountain bikes are good for cycling; roads may be too potted for road bikes. If you are a cycler, be sure to bring spare tubes, patch kits, and any other parts you might need with you as they are not available locally.

Touring and Outdoor Activities Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:47 AM

Tanzania's many game parks offer opportunities for vacations away from the city. You can visit several of these parks by car, but road conditions make a four-wheel drive vehicle preferable and, in many cases, necessary. Rental vehicles are sometimes available from the AERA, and charter aircraft are available locally, but are very expensive.

You can drive from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park in 3-4 hours. Arusha, near the northern game parks and Mt Kilimanjaro, is an 8-10 hour drive. Accommodations range from adequate to good, but not luxurious. If you plan to go on safaris, tent camping offers a unique dimension to the experience as well as greater economy. All major wildlife parks have camping facilities. If you are an avid camper and have camping equipment, bring it.

Air service operates between Dar es Salaam and Nairobi. Zanzibar is 20 minutes by plane and about 2 hours by ferry. The price of each method of travel is comparable.

Entertainment Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:08 AM

Since October 2003 Dar es Salaam has a three screen theater. Usually they show first run movies at very affordable prices. The Slipway also shows fairly recent movies each week.

The Dar es Salaam Musical Society is open to anyone who plays an instrument or sings. The Dar es Salaam Players, an amateur group, is open to prospective thespians. They stage three or four plays a year. Members of the diplomatic corps occasionally show videotapes in their homes, and sometimes foreign governments sponsor concerts by artisans from their countries.

A number of restaurants offer European, Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Italian, and Ethiopian food. Dining out can be pleasant, so long as one chooses foods that are not subject to quick spoilage (generally, be careful of shellfish in restaurants). Just recently (since September 2003) a few new restaurants have opened and that are comparable to western standards. The service at some Tanzanian restaurants is a source of entertainment all its own, and can be frustrating.

Social Activities Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:48 AM

There are several groups in Dar es Salaam that cater to the non-working spouse. One of them is the Corona Society that has monthly coffees. The other is the Diplomatic Spouses Group that also meets every month. Both of these groups offer other social and recreational activities for its members. Both groups are also involved in charitable activities.

There are also numerous volunteer opportunities within the Dar es Salaam area.

Among Americans Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:48 AM
Social contact among Americans is mostly at informal cocktail parties, dinners, and buffet suppers at homes. Daytime coffees, teas, and bridge parties are held occasionally. Special interest groups meet on a regular basis.

International Contacts Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:49 AM
A great way to make acquaintances is to have small dinner parties and/or buffets held at home. Dress is usually prescribed by the invitation, but is usually casual. At functions you will have an opportunity to meet Tanzanians and citizens of other countries represented in Tanzania. The Diplomatic Spouses Group sponsors social activities for individuals on the diplomatic list below the rank of Ambassador. The Diplomatic Spouses Group and an International Women's Group, the Corona Society, each hold monthly meetings. A number of charitable and social organizations such as Rotary, Lions, the Corona Society, the Caledonian, St. Patrick, and St. George Societies welcome members. Expatriates in Tanzania find limited opportunities for community activities with the International School, churches, hospitals, and orphanages.

Official Functions Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:50 AM

The Ambassador, DCM, USAID Director, and Senior Officers attend several official, semiofficial, or diplomatic government functions weekly.

Nature of Functions Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:58 AM

Except for the Ambassador and DCM, no strict protocol rules govern calls when officers arrive at post. They can call on their counterparts in other missions and in the Government of Tanzania. They will meet members of other missions at social gatherings soon after they arrive.

The Ambassador, DCM, USAID Director, and Senior Officers attend several official, semiofficial, or diplomatic government functions weekly. Dress is a safari suit or coat and tie for men, and cocktail dresses for women.

Diplomats must give the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 14 days notice before traveling on official business from Dar es Salaam when appointments are requested with government or party officials. Certain areas are classified as security areas and are out-of-bounds to all visitors without special authorization.

Standards of Social Conduct Last Updated: 9/30/2005 2:45 AM

Most officers make a few formal calls and many business calls to conduct the Mission's business. Business card stock is available from GSO and business cards can be printed from any laser printer.

Special Information Last Updated: 9/29/2005 9:11 AM

Write to the Community Liaison Office (clodrs@state.gov), the Management Counselor or the USAID Executive Officer for information on specific problems. The Overseas Briefing Center has current copies of various pieces of post information, slides CD-ROM about Dar es Salaam.

Post Orientation Program

The Community Liaison Office Coordinator corresponds with all personnel before their arrival at post, providing additional and more up-to-date information about Dar es Salaam than that contained in the Post Report. Personnel are encouraged to raise any questions with the CLO as long before arrival as possible. New arrivals are met by representatives of their agencies and are assigned both office and community sponsors to assist them in settling in and learning their way around. Because the post is small, newcomers receive individual briefings. Group orientations are conducted once a year.

The Mission supplies a Hospitality Kit that includes kitchen utensils, dishes, flatware, sheets and towels, and other essential items until arrival of airfreight.

Notes For Travelers

Getting to the Post Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:20 AM

Most personnel travel to Dar es Salaam from Washington, D.C., via Europe. In-coming international flights are available most days of the week. Currently, the European transfer points are Amsterdam, Zurich and London; there is also a connection to a Delta flight via South Africa. Those traveling to post with pets should consider KLM through Amsterdam, as this is the most pet-friendly option. Over-nighting in South Africa and the United Kingdom (as is required with some flight connections) present quarantine difficulties when traveling with pets.

Dar es Salaam is an Air Designated Post. HHE, UAB, and Consumable shipments arrive at post by air. European Logistical Support Office (ELSO) in Antwerp, Belgium, has been designated the control office for shipments to, from, and between selected posts in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. HHE shipments originating in the U.S. are consolidated with other shipments and sent (by sea) to ELSO, where it is separated and then shipped by air to Dar. Full transshipment services for export packed HHE, including temporary storage as applicable, are available through ELSO and U.S. contract freight forwarders in Antwerp, Belgium, and Bremen, Germany. HHE originating from overseas locations can be shipped directly to Dar by air, on cost construct basis. Transportation offices of all foreign affairs agencies in Washington, D.C., are familiar with these arrangements and should be contacted for advice.

Effects packed properly for overseas shipment by professional packers usually reach post in good condition. Pack all shipments in sturdy wooden or steel, waterproof containers.

Telegraphic notice of shipments en route is necessary for clearance purposes. To facilitate customs clearance on HHE, the owner's passport, packing list, and form PRO-6 (available from the Embassy) signed by the owner or Embassy representative, together with the original airway bill must be provided to the customs authorities. Mark packing cases or boxes:

American Ambassador
American Embassy
Dar es Salaam
Tanzania
(Owner's initials)

Due to the high incidence of vehicles damaged in transit or vandalized in customs, containerization is authorized for all vehicles shipped to Dar es Salaam. Cars arrive in Dar es Salaam by sea, and packing cases should be marked as indicated above. Allow as much lead-time as possible for shipment of HHE and cars as delays are frequent and lengthy.

Send the following information to the post before a vehicle arrives in Dar es Salaam: engine and chassis number, number of cylinders, displacement in cubic centimeters, make, model, and year. It is important that marks and numbers on bills of lading be identical to those on cases or vans. Any change on marks and numbers will delay clearance of your car in the port.

Packers and movers in Dar es Salaam do satisfactory work. Shipping lines sail directly to and from Europe, including the Mediterranean, the East and Gulf coasts of North America, and East Asia. Sailings to the west coast of Africa are infrequent and often involve transshipment in Europe.

Customs, Duties, and Passage

Customs and Duties Last Updated: 9/30/2005 2:00 AM

Diplomatic-list American employees have duty-free entry privileges for HHE, including cars, for their entire tour. Administrative and Technical staff have duty-free entry privileges within the first 12 months of arrival. Included in duty-free privileges are materials ordered from the U.S. and Europe sent by air or surface mail. USAID contractors should consult their employers for information on import privileges.

Employees must pay automobile registration and licensing fees for POVs which comes to about $82.00/year.

Upon departure, post permission is required to sell POVs. To sell a personal car, one must submit a letter to the Foreign Ministry and receive a response letter indicating to go ahead with the sale. When the sale is approved, registration and transfer of title is then done--free of charge. Of course, non-duty-free buyers must also pay customs and duty on vehicles.

Passage Last Updated: 9/30/2005 2:00 AM

Visas are required to enter Tanzania. After arrival, resident and reentry permits, renewable yearly, are required. Personnel passing through Washington, D.C., should obtain visas at the Tanzanian Embassy. Visas can sometimes be obtained at the airport, but often with difficulty. All assigned personnel must bring 12 or more passport sized photographs of each family member for resident visas, drivers licenses, ID cards, and visas for travel elsewhere in the region.

Pets Last Updated: 9/30/2005 2:01 AM

You must have an import permit to bring a pet into Tanzania. Inform your administrative or executive officer who will obtain it from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Animal Industry Subdivision. Please initiate this action far in advance since the procedures are time-consuming. For cats and dogs, include the description, gender, age, and breed of the pet and expected date of arrival. For both cats and dogs, include a certificate that the animal has been vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days and not more than 1 year before entry into Tanzania. No dogs or cats younger than 7 months old will be allowed into Tanzania without proper documentation. The veterinarian will complete the entry permit and return it to the Embassy for forwarding to the owner. The permit, along with a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian issued within 7 days of departure for Tanzania, should be attached to the pet's shipping crate. Keep copies of these documents to facilitate their export from Tanzania.

Once the pet is in Tanzania, you should note that a yearly rabies vaccine is required by law. This applies whether or not the pet has had a three-year shot (like those given in the U.S.), and/or doesn't need a booster. All shots, especially parvo, must be up to date. Bring all medications for your pets with you. It is possible to obtain a 3-month heartworm shot in lieu of monthly medication if you prefer. A local vet is available in Dar.

Firearms and Ammunition Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:21 AM

Importation of firearms into Tanzania and licensing are difficult and time-consuming. The Tanzanian Government and the U.S. Mission strictly enforce regulations pertaining to firearms.

Holders of diplomatic passports can introduce weapons into Tanzania provided they meet the criteria of post officials and conform to Tanzanian standards and procedures. To bring firearms, the Ambassador must grant prior approval. Route requests through the Regional Security Officer (RSO) giving serial number, model, caliber and quantities of ammunition. Once the Ambassador has given approval, the weapons are allowed to be brought to Post. Procedures are long and involved, and it may require a minimum of three months to process and obtain proper licenses. The Government of Tanzania requires that the importer provide proof of ownership of the firearm (such as a bill of sale from a store or proof of registration at another location) prior to issuing a license.

The Ambassador must endorse the application for license, and a diplomatic note is sent to the Foreign Ministry for forwarding to the Ministry for Home Affairs. The latter Ministry decides on the application. If it is approved, the firearms can then be licensed. If the application is not approved and the firearms have arrived in Tanzania, they will be retained in a customs warehouse until the owner's departure or until instructions are issued to ship the firearms out of the country. In accordance with Tanzanian law, Mission employees are only authorized to import one handgun (pistol or revolver), one small caliber rifle (less than .375 caliber), one large caliber rifle (.375 or larger), and two shotguns of different bore per adult family member.

The licensing fee for non-diplomatic U.S. Government personnel is Tshs 5,000 (+/-$7) for a rifle and/or shotgun. Diplomatic licenses are free. Firearm licenses must be renewed each year. There may be a $150.00 fee for clearing weapons from customs.

Firearms may be exported only after obtaining a valid export license from the Government of Tanzania. Ammunition can only be purchased with an Ammunition Permit issued by the Arms Licensing Officer, Central Police Station.

The Mission Firearms Policy prohibits any weapons brought into Tanzania by embassy personnel from being sold. All weapons must be shipped out of Tanzania at the end of the officer's tour.

Regulations for control of firearms are severe. Heavy fines are imposed for not safely storing firearms against theft; not removing the bolt or action while in safe storage; and/or storing ammunition together with firearms. No one under age 18 may possess firearms. Weapons cannot be borrowed, because Tanzanian law prohibits temporary transfer of firearms.

If you intend to import firearms and/or ammunition, write to the Embassy RSO to obtain the necessary application forms and latest information. Regulations are subject to change.

Currency, Banking, and Weights and Measures Last Updated: 9/30/2005 1:17 AM

The Tanzanian shilling, divided into 100 cents, is the basic local currency. The currency is convertible. The official rate of exchange changes slightly from time to time. At the time of this report (September 2005), Tshs. 1133 = 1 US dollar. Coins in current use are in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 100 and 200 shillings. Bill denominations are in 200, 500, 1000, 2000, 5,000 and 10,000 shillings.

Tanzania uses the metric system of weights and measures.

Taxes, Exchange, and Sale of Property Last Updated: 9/30/2005 2:03 AM

Restrictions

No limit is placed on the amount of dollars, other foreign currency, or travelers checks that you can bring into the country. You can convert foreign currency to shillings only at authorized points (banks, financial institutions, and exchange bureaus) or at the Embassy cashier. Strict currency control regulations govern conversion of shillings into foreign currencies.

You cannot sell goods imported duty free to those without duty-free privileges unless the purchaser pays the duty. Mission policy concerning sale or transfer of personal property requires that each transaction be approved in advance by the Embassy Management Counselor. The Mission imposes no special restrictions on importation.

U.S. Government dependents who are employed on the local economy must pay Tanzanian and U.S. taxes on wages earned. Mission members can receive rebates of the 20% VAT imposed on certain items--if they keep receipts and have the patience to file and wait for the reimbursement.

Facilities

Banking laws of Tanzania were changed in the early 90s and now both private and foreign banking facilities are available in Tanzania. There are 28 private banks and financial institutions in Tanzania. Citibank Tanzania Ltd. is the one American bank operating in the country. These banks provide a range of national and international banking services including the sale of U.S. and foreign travelers checks. The U.S. Disbursing Officer in Charleston, South Carolina maintains a shilling checking account at Citibank Tanzania Ltd. in Dar es Salaam. The bank will accept employee's personal dollar checks but charges a one percent commission to cash into dollars. Citibank provides a teller window in the embassy for personnel to cash their personal checks. Travelers checks are not recommended. They are very difficult to cash outside of the embassy. A commission is charged to purchase travelers checks and to cash travelers checks into foreign currency.

All Embassy American personnel are paid by check from the Consolidated American Personnel Payroll System, through FSC, Charleston, SC. It is mandatory to have your paycheck sent directly to your bank in the U.S. rather than to the post.

Recommended Reading Last Updated: 9/30/2005 2:03 AM

These titles are provided as a general indication of the material published on this country and region. The State Department does not endorse unofficial publications.

Geography and Travel
Finke, Jens. Rough Guide to Tanzania
Lonely Planet Travel Guide. Tanzania
Ridgeway, Rick. The shadow of Kilimanjaro
Ross, Mark. Dangerous beauty: Life and death in Africa, True stories from a safari guide
Salkeld, Audrey. Kilimanjaro: To the roof of Africa
The Sierra Club. Adventuring in East Africa: The Sierra Club Travel Guide to the great safaris
Ward, Clive. Snowcaps on the equator
Wolfe, Art. Africa

Culture
Askew, K.M. Performing the Nation: Swahili music and cultural politics in Tanzania
Caplan, P. African voices, African lives: Personal narratives from a Swahili village
Coskran, K., Truesdale, C., and Davis, A. Tanzania on Tuesdays: Writing by American women abroad
Richmond, Yale and Gestrin, Phyllis. Into Africa: Intercultural insights
Rwebangira, M. K. Haraka, haraka ... Look before you leap: Youth at the crossroads of custom and modernity
Saitoti, Tepilit Ole. The worlds of a Maasai warrior: An autobiography

Government and Politics
Ayittey, George. Africa in chaos
Baylies, Carolyn and Bujra, Janet. AIDS, sexuality, and gender in Africa: The struggle continues
Forster, P. and Maghimbi, S. Agrarian economy, state, and society in contemporary Tanzania
Lancaster, Carol. Aid to Africa
Havnevik, K. Tanzania: The limits to development from above
Jane Goodall Institute. Jane Goodall: 40 years at Gombe: A tribute to four decades of wildlife research, education, and conservation
Mbelle, A. and Kilindo, A. Nyerere legacy and economic policy making in Tanzania
McHenry, Jr., Dean. Limited choices: The political struggle for socialism in Tanzania
Setel, Philip. A plague of paradoxes: AIDS, culture and demography in northern Tanzania
Tripp, Aili Mari. Changing the rules: The politics of liberalization and urban informal economy in Tanzania
World Bank. Tanzania at the turn of the century: From reform to sustained growth and poverty reduction

History
Babu. Memoirs of a "Whenwe...": Colonial experiences in Tanganyika
Coquery-Vidrovitch, Catherine. African women: A modern history
Feierman, S. Peasant intellectuals: Anthropology and history in Tanzania
Iliffe, John. A modern history of Tanganyika
Maddox, G. Custodians of the land: Ecology and culture in the history of Tanzania
Maxon, Robert. East Africa: An introductory history
Reader, John. Africa: A biography of a continent
Szirmai, Adam and Lapperre, Paul. The industrial experience of Tanzania
Widner, Jennifer. Building the rule of law: Francis Nyalali and the road to judicial independence in Africa

Other
Murphy, P. Tanzania (Bridgestone Books)
Ferguson, Amanda. The attack against the U.S. Embassies in Kenya and Tanzania
Harden, Blaine. Dispatches from a fragile country
Stevens, Stuart. Malaria Dreams: An African Adventure

Zanzibar
Lonely Planet Travel Guide. Zanzibar and Pemba
Petterson, D. Revolution in Zanzibar: An American's Cold War tale
Sheriff, Abdul. History and conservation of Zanzibar Stone Town

Local Holidays Last Updated: 9/30/2005 2:49 AM

Zanzibar Revolution Day January 12
Good Friday varies
Easter Monday varies
Union Day April 26
International Workers' Day May 1
Saba Saba Day July 7
Peasants Day August 8
Mwalimu Nyerere Day October 14
Independence Day Dec. 9
Boxing Day Dec 26
Idd-El-Fitr *varies
Idd-El-Hajj *varies
Maulid Day *varies

*Date varies according to the lunar calendar.