The recent news of the arrest of Thabo Bester, a South African national, and two others in Tanzania has put the East African country in the spotlight. Bester, who is known to be involved in the mining industry, was arrested along with his romantic partner, Dr. Nandipha Magudumana, and another individual. This has left many South Africans curious about Tanzania, its location, its safety, its tourism, and the reasons why someone from their country would be arrested there. In this article, we will provide an overview of Tanzania, its location, capital, currency, population, religion, facts, tourism, and other relevant information that can help shed light on this East African nation.
Where is Tanzania in Africa?
Tanzania is a country located in East Africa. It is known for its wildlife, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. Tanzania has a diverse population with over 100 different ethnic groups, each with its own language, culture, and traditions.
Capital of Tanzania
The capital of Tanzania is Dodoma, although the largest city is Dar es Salaam. Dodoma was officially designated as the capital in 1974, but many government offices and embassies are still located in Dar es Salaam.
Tanzania Population
The population of Tanzania is estimated to be around 60 million people, making it one of the largest countries in Africa. The majority of the population lives in rural areas, with only about a third living in urban areas. The country has a young population, with about 60% of the population under the age of 25.
Tanzania Religion
The majority of people in Tanzania are Christians, with Muslims being the second-largest religious group. There are also small communities of Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists in the country. Tanzania is known for its religious tolerance, and people of different faiths often live and work together peacefully.
Tanzania Currency
The currency used in Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling. It is recommended to exchange currency at authorized bureaus or banks, as exchanging money on the street can be risky. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, but it is recommended to carry cash for smaller transactions.
Tanzania Facts
Tanzania is the largest country in East Africa, with a total area of over 947,300 square kilometers. The official language is Swahili, although English is also widely spoken. Tanzania is known for its wildlife, including the famous “big five” animals: elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinoceros. The country is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Serengeti and Kilimanjaro National Parks.
Tanzania Tourism
Tanzania is a popular tourist destination, with millions of visitors coming to the country every year to explore its many natural wonders. The country is home to several national parks and game reserves, including the Serengeti National Park, which is known for its annual wildebeest migration. Other popular attractions include Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar Island, and the Ngorongoro Crater.
Is Tanzania Safe?
Tanzania is generally considered a safe country for travelers. However, it is important to take certain precautions, particularly when visiting large cities like Dar es Salaam. Crime rates in Tanzania are generally low, but tourists should be aware of pickpocketing and other petty crimes. It is also recommended to avoid large crowds and political demonstrations.
Conclusion
Tanzania is a diverse and beautiful country located in East Africa. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant wildlife, Tanzania has become a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. While the country is generally considered safe, it is important to take certain precautions when traveling, particularly in larger cities. Understanding the local currency, language, and culture can also help visitors have a more enjoyable experience.