04/05/2026
The president of Tanzania Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced sweeping measures against South Africa, including a 48-hour deadline for South African nationals to leave Tanzania. She also ordered the immediate closure of borders between the two countries and suspended all exports of Tanzanian goods to South Africa.
The move follows reports of ongoing xenophobic violence in South Africa, particularly targeting African migrants. President Hassan described the situation as unacceptable and said decisive action was necessary.
In addition to the travel ultimatum, Tanzania has halted trade with South Africa, marking a sharp escalation in tensions between the two nations.
In a strongly worded address, President Hassan criticized the South African government, arguing that it has “forgotten the support it received during the struggle for independence.” She emphasized Tanzania’s historical role—alongside other African nations—in supporting liberation movements and hosting exiles during the fight against apartheid.
