US Senator Jim Risch has criticized Meta for restricting social media access for Tanzanian activists, including those in the United States, following requests from the Tanzanian government. These actions raise concerns about free expression and political freedoms, prompting the US State Department to review its relationship with Tanzania.

• Meta confirmed restricting access to activist Maria Sarungi's Instagram account within Tanzania based on a legal order from Tanzanian regulators.
• Ranking Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Senator Jim Risch, warned that such cooperation between tech firms and Tanzanian authorities has serious implications.
• The US State Department cited "grave concerns" regarding Tanzanian governance, human rights, and security, including the repression of religious freedom and free speech, in its decision to launch a full review of the relationship.

The United States has initiated a comprehensive review of its relationship with Tanzania, citing serious concerns over the Tanzanian government’s recent actions regarding governance, human rights, and security. This decision, announced by the U.S. Department of State on Thursday, December 4, marks a significant downturn in bilateral ties.

• Concerns include ongoing repression of religious freedom and free speech, obstacles to U.S. investment, and disturbing violence against civilians following Tanzania’s October 29 elections.
• The U.S. Embassy in Dar es Salaam had issued a heightened security alertwarning of potential widespread anti-government demonstrations and disruptions, including calls for nationwide protests on December 9.
• Reports indicate increased scrutiny of foreign nationals by local security authorities, with searches of electronics for politically sensitive content, and reminders that sharing panic-inducing pictures or videos is a criminal offense under Tanzanian law.

Tanzanian activist Maria Sarungi has accused Meta of enabling state repression after the company restricted access to her Instagram account in Tanzania, just days before planned anti-government protests. She claims this move shields government abuses under President Samia Suluhu and suppresses dissent.

• Meta confirmed restricting access to Sarungi's Instagram account in Tanzania following a legal order from Tanzanian regulators.
• Meta also removed the Instagram and WhatsApp accounts of US-based Tanzanian activist Mange Kimambi, citing violations of their recidivism policy, a claim Kimambi rejected.
• Both activists allege the Tanzanian government is pressuring Meta to silence critics ahead of demonstrations, reflecting a broader trend of African governments influencing tech companies.