US Warns Citizens over Anti-gay Crackdown in Tanzania

The United States Embassy in Dar es Salaam has issued a warning to American citizens planning to travel to Tanzania over the anti-gay crackdown announced last week by Regional Commissioner, Paul Makonda.

The Embassy has urged US nationals to among others things review their internet footprints and protect their photos.

They have also been advised against using language that may “run afoul of Tanzanian laws regarding homosexual practices and explicit sexual activity.”

A 17-member anti-gay surveillance squad has been formed to track homosexuals on social media and arrest them. The squad is made up of officials from the country’s Communications Authority, police department and the media.

“I have information about the presence of many homosexuals in our province. These homosexuals boast on social networks. Give me their names. My ad hoc team will begin to get their hands on them next Monday [November 5],” he said last week.

Last month, Tanzania authorities arrested two South Africans, one Ugandan and nine Tanzanians for allegedly promoting homosexuality.

Makonda says the squad will monitor social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and WhatsApp to identify gay people.

“Others who have received and accepted the issue of homosexuality, should understand that we have our laws as a nation, we have our constitution, our traditions as a nation. When we decide our issues, do not interfere,” Makonda said.

“If you find homosexuality as a right, take them (the gay people) and stay with them in your countries.”