Tanzania’s October 2025 Elections

What You Need to Know

People protest in the streets of Arusha, Tanzania, on election day, on October 29.AP-CNN

On 29 October, Tanzania held its general elections. The outgoing president, Samia Suluhu Hassan, was re-elected with 97.66% of the vote, in a context where several major opposition parties — including CHADEMA and ACT-Wazalendo — were unable to participate. Their absence led to a largely uncontested election and raised concerns about transparency and fairness.

In several regions of the country, election day was marked by tensions, protests, and clashes, as well as an Internet shutdown, adding to the worries of citizens and international observers.

And in Bukoba? A calm and stable situation

We want to reassure you:the Kagera region, where Bukoba is located, did not experience any of the unrest or violence reported elsewhere in Tanzania.

Bukoba is located in the far northwest of the country, on the shores of Lake Victoria, more than 1,000 km from Dodoma, the political capital where the main tensions were concentrated.

This geographical distance contributed to maintaining a peaceful atmosphere, and daily life was able to continue normally for the families and children we support.

What does this mean for our work?

Although the national political context remains uncertain, our mission on the ground remains unchanged:

• ensuring continuity in children’s education,

• supporting families in their day-to-day challenges,

• and strengthening our local teams, who work closely with communities.

The stability in Bukoba allows us to carry on with our programmes confidently, while staying attentive to how the situation evolves nationally.