United Republic of Tanzania Review - 53rd session of Universal Periodic Review Human Rights Council Date: 5 November 2026 Language: English Transcript: https://transcripts.un.org/en/asset/k13/k131ndo04b Transcripts available through this tool are created by using automatic speech recognition and are not official records nor official documents of the United Nations. Official records and official documents are available on the Official Document System of the United Nations. --- Speaker 1 [12:19]: إعلان مهم. يرجى من المتحدثين الكرام إلقاء بياناتهم بسرعة معقولة لضمان ترجمة فورية وفية وعالية الجودة. Speakers are kindly reminded to deliver their. Statements at a reasonable pace to ensure complete and quality interpretation. Il est rappelé aux orateurs qu'ils doivent présenter leur déclaration à un rythme raisonnable afin de garantir une interprétation complète et de qualité. Напоминаем ораторам, что для того, чтобы устный перевод был полным и качественным, необходимо выступать в умеренном темпе. Se ruega a los oradores que pronuncien sus declaraciones a un ritmo razonable para garantizar una interpretación íntegra y de calidad. HRC · Chair [15:14]: Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, very good afternoon to you. I hereby declare open the eighth meeting of the 53rd session of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review. We will now proceed with the review of the United Republic of Tanzania. Before beginning, Please let me remind you once again that all delegations should upload their oral statements through the online system for inscription on the list of speakers event before the opening of the review. In accordance with the Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, the review is based on the national report prepared by the State under review and the compilation of UN information and the summary of stakeholders' information, both prepared by the OHCHR. It is therefore an honour for me to give the floor to His Excellency Mr. Abdalla Saleh Posi, Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Tanzania, Permanent Representative, to introduce the delegation. You have the floor, sir. United Republic of Tanzania · Ambassador and Permanent Representative [16:22]: Mr. President, allow me to express our sincere appreciation to you and the Secretariat for the excellent arrangements. Made for Tanzania's fourth universal period review, we also wish to acknowledge the valuable engagement of member states, particularly those submitted advanced questions and welcome the opportunity to productive exchange of views during this review. It is my distinct honor to introduce the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania, led by Honorable Abdallah Hamis Ulega, Member of Parliament and Minister for Constitutional and Legal Affairs. Together with the minister are Dr. Saif Abdallah Shakalage, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Constitutional and Legal Affairs, myself, Dr. Abdallah Saleh Posi, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Tanzania in Geneva, Ms. Nkasori Milika Sarakikia, Director of Human Rights, Ministry of Constitutional and Legal Affairs, and Ms. Beatrice Edward Mpembo, Assistant Director of Human Rights, Ministry of Constitutional and Legal Affairs. Of course, we have a big delegation. I won't introduce everybody. I'll just mention a few names of people in the second row to my right. And those are Professor Hamis Masanja Malebo, Executive Secretary, Tanzania National Commission for UNESCO; Mr. Ramadan Hassan Gaza, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Tanzania Police Force; Ms. Vivian Method Ishengoma, Assistant Director, Office of the Solicitor General; Ms. Bishara Mohamed Rashid, Good Governance Coordination Officer, Office of the President, Zanzibar; and Mr. Innocent Lazarum Getta, Head of Legal Department, Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology. The delegation is further supported by senior officials and technical experts drawn from various ministries, departments, and institutions of the United Republic of Tanzania. Mr. President, with your permission, I now have the honour to invite the Honourable Minister for Constitutional and Legal Affairs and Head of the Tanzanian Delegation to deliver. United Republic of Tanzania · Minister for Constitutional and Legal Affairs; Head of Delegation [18:31]: Mr. President, Mr. High Commissioner, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen, It is an honour for the United Republic of Tanzania to appear before this Working Group. for our fourth Universal Periodic Review. I thank the President of the Human Rights Council, the Working Group, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights and participating Member States. I convey greetings from His Excellency, President Dr. Samir Slougan, whose leadership recognizes the close relationship between human rights, peace, development, and the rule of law. Mr. President, at our third review in 2021, Tanzania received 252 recommendations. We supported 187, including 20 partially, and didn't support 65. The supported recommendations have informed reforms throughout the reporting period. On civil and political rights, Tanzania has advanced the democratic participation, fundamental freedoms, and access to justice. Under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, our approach has been guided by the four R's: reconciliation, resiliency, reforms, and rebuilding. The task force on multi-party democracy consulted political parties and stakeholders, contributing to renewed dialogue and the lifting of restrictions on political rallies. The suspension of four newspapers was also lifted. Electoral reforms include the Independent National Electoral Commission Act, which introduced public applications, shortlisting and interviews for sitting commissioners. The Presidential, Parliamentary and Councillors Elections Act requires even unopposed parliamentary and councillor candidates to obtain voters' approval. Reforms concerning political parties have addressed internal democracy, inclusion, and accountability. Mr. President, the events surrounding the general elections of 29th October 2025 were deeply regrettable. Lives were lost, families suffered, and communities experienced violence and destruction. The government remains committed to establishing the facts, ensuring accountability, and protecting human dignity, irrespective of political affiliation. A presidential commission of inquiry was established on 18th November 2025. and its principal findings were publicly presented on 23 April 2026. The Presidential Commission of Inquiry recommended the establishment of a separate criminal investigation commission to examine possible criminal offences and establish individual responsibility. This distinction is important because the findings of a commission of inquiry shouldn't be taken as establishing individual criminal liability or necessarily providing sufficient evidence for prosecution. In implementing the recommendation of the first commission, a criminal investigation commission was established to conduct further investigation and gather evidence in accordance with the law, while safeguarding the rights of all concerned. The government recognizes the public interest in publication of the full report. Nevertheless, disclosure must be assessed against ongoing investigation and possible prosecutions. Premature publication could compromise evidence, endanger witnesses, or prejudice fair trial rights and the presumption of innocence. Similar considerations can arise in other common law jurisdictions where publication is not invariably automatic. These safeguards protect the administration of justice. They do not negate transparency or accountability. We ask our international partners to respect Tanzania's sovereignty and legal processes while continuing constructive dialogue grounded in our human rights obligations. Mr. President, access to justice remains a priority. Mainland Tanzania has 26 high court sub-registries across 25 regions, 15 integrated justice centers, 137 district courts, and 962 primary courts. Zanzibar has developed four smart courts. On the mainland, the case backlog declined from approximately 10% to 5%. And average case determination time fell from 95 to 66 days. Zanzibar backlog declined from 43 to 18%. More than 170,000 cases were concluded through digital and virtual court arrangements. The Mama Samia Legal Aid Campaign has reached approximately 7.9 million people, including more than 4 million women. 446 statutes have been translated into Kiswahili, making the law more accessible. Mobile courts, virtual hearings, and legal aid services are bringing justice closer to communities that previously faced distance, cost, and other barriers. Human rights, democracy, and peace flourish only where the rule of law and judicial independency are respected by everyone, leaders, political actors, citizens, and international partners alike. Respect must extend even to judicial decisions with which we disagree. Tanzania recognizes the authority of its courts, including decision requiring legislative reform. Indeed, the rule requiring an opposed candidate to obtain voters approval followed a high court decision on the constitutional right to vote. Our courts must determine cases impartially, on evidence and law, free from interference. This commitment also extends to civic space. By 2026, more than 7,700 non-government organizations and 710 societies were registered. Civil society participated in voter education and domestic observation during the 2025 elections, when the permanent national voters register exceeded 37.6 million voters. The government's commitment to engaging with human rights defenders is reflected in President Dr. Samir Sulaihan's participation in the 10th anniversary of the Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition on 13th May 2022. In January 2023, the coalition facilitated a meeting between the president and representatives of the African Commission on Human and People's Rights. Tanzania subsequently hosted the Commission's 77th ordinary session in Arusha, reaffirming its commitment to constructive engagement with human rights institutions. Freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and political participation are pillars of democracy. These rights must be protected, while violence against individuals and destruction of property cannot be justified as political expression. Legislative reforms and reviews have addressed the Media Service Act, Access to Information Act, Cybercrimes Act and related legislation, including removal of criminal defamation provisions. Cybercrimes measures seek to combat fraud, unlawful access, and online abuse while respecting lawful expression proportionally proportionality, and due processes. Reported internet penetration reached 83.5%, supported by communications towers and the national fiber optic network. Greater connectivity must be accompanied by privacy, online safety, and child protection. Mr. President, Some recommendations involve complex legal, constitutional, and societal questions requiring continued dialogue. On proposal to decriminalize conceptual, consexual, same-sex sexual conduct, Tanzania maintains its position. mindful of its social and cultural values. Just as some of our friends face difficulties recognizing polygamists or certain religious marriages, Tanzania faces deeply rooted sensitivities concerning same-sex relations. Nevertheless, dignity, equality before the law, Personal liberty and protection from torture apply to all persons. The government categorically denies allegations of forced medical examinations and doesn't condone arbitrary detention, degrading treatment, or denial of essential health care. Law enforcement must respect due process and judicial safeguards. Mr. President, turning to women's empowerment and vulnerable groups, Tanzania has made measurable progress. Women's representation in parliament reached 39.3% in 2025. and 36.5% in the judiciary. The proportion of women holding land rights increased from 28.5% in 2020 to 35% in 2025. These gains reflect the sustained constitutional, legislative, and policy measures. Our commitment to inclusion extends to persons with disabilities through the National Assistive Technology Strategy, inclusive education, and accessible services. The National Action Plan for Persons with Albinism seeks to improve protection, health care, and education, and economic opportunities. To protect women and children, Tanzania is implementing its second national plan of action to end violence against women and children. A reported 26.5% decline in lifetime violence has been recorded. The government is strengthening reporting mechanism survivor support services, and community awareness to improve prevention and response. Survivor support services and reporting mechanisms have expanded, while the National Child Online Protection Campaign has reached all 26 regions of mainland Tanzania. Mr. President, Human rights must also be reflected in everyday living conditions. On economic, social, and cultural rights, Tanzania has invested in infrastructure, essential services, and opportunity. More than 700 kilometers of the standard gauge railway are operational. The Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project has a generation capacity of 2,115 megawatts. Electricity has reached all 12,318 villages in mainland Tanzania, bringing national electrification to approximately 79.5%. Investment across productive sectors have generated more than 4.2 million employment opportunities. Education financing increased from approximately 5.6 trillion Tanzanian shillings in 2022 to 2023 to 6.3 trillion in 2025 to 2026. Tanzania continue to provide fee-free basic education and reentry opportunities for students who previously left school, including girls with pregnancy. Health facilities on the mainland increased from 80,458 in 2022 to more than 10,000 in 2026. Maternal mortality declined from 197 to 104 deaths per 100,000 live births. Newborn mortality declined from 25 to 19 per 1,000 live births. Antenatal care coverage reached 98 percent, and facility deliveries increased from 83 to 98 percent. In Zanzibar, maternal mortality declined from 166 to 119 deaths per 100,000 live births. On the mainland, postnatal services were provided to more than 3,400,000 mothers and a similar number of newborns. These investments seek to make essential healthcare more accessible, particularly for mothers and children. Tanzania continues to strengthen HIV prevention and treatment. Reported indicators show 82.7% of people living with HIV knew their status, 97.9% were receiving antiretroviral therapy, and 94.3% had achieved viral suppression. Antiretroviral medicines remain free of charge. The basic needs poverty rate declined from 26.4% in 2020 to 24% to 24.9% in 2025. Agriculture employs 61.4% of the workforce and contributes 26.3% of gross domestic product. Its annual growth was approximately 4 to 4.1%, demonstrating the sector's importance for livelihood, and food security. The productive social safety net supported approximately 1.36 million households, benefiting more than 5.1 million people. Access to clean water reached 85.2% in rural areas and 92.5% in urban areas. Climate resilience is integral to these gains. More than 167 million tree seedlings were produced during 2025 to 2026. Access to clean cooking increased from 15.9, 23.4% supported by the National cleaning cooking energy strategy. Mr. President, Tanzania remains engaged with regional and international human rights mechanism. We hosted 77th ordinary session of the African Commission on Human and People Rights in 2023, reaffirming our commitment to regional dialogue and cooperation. We have submitted our consolidated reports under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, while our report under the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women is undergoing validation. We welcome cooperation in three areas: human rights awareness for citizens and public officials, translation and dissemination of laws in Kiswahili, and responsible use of technology to improve public services. Tanzania doesn't claim that every challenge has been resolved. We recognize the need for continued reform, strong institutions, and accountability. Guided by Tanzania Development Vision 2050 and the principle that no one should be left behind, we welcome constructive recommendations and cooperations based on mutual respect. We stand ready to listen, share experiences, and work with Member States in a spirit of constructive dialogue. We remain committed to advancing the dignity and rights of all people in the United Republic of Tanzania. I thank you, Mr. President. HRC · Chair [42:51]: Thank you very much. Ambassador, I understand that we will now move to the interactive dialogue. Before giving the floor to delegations for their questions and comments, I would like to remind you that the speaking time will be one minute and five seconds on this occasion. There are many delegations who wish to take the floor, and therefore I will be strict when it comes to the time limit. I would like to reiterate that issues of a political, bilateral and territorial nature should be kept out of our deliberations. Moreover, United Nations terminology should be used when referring to States and territories. As you know, only the use of the words “recommend” or “recommendation” will ensure that the relevant parts of your statements are included in the recommendations section of the Working Group report. Also, allow me to recall that the Human Rights Council strongly rejects any act of intimidation or reprisal against individuals and groups who cooperate or have cooperated with the United Nations and its representatives and mechanisms in the field of human rights. We will now begin with the list of speakers. And I give the floor, first of all, to the distinguished representative of Angola. Angola [44:05]: Thank you, Mr. President. Angola warmly welcomes the delegation of Tanzania and commends its commitment to the UPR. Angola and Tanzania share deep historical bonds forged during decisive moments of our history. We remain committed to building on this friendship to advance peace, stability, and prosperity across our region and continent. In a spirit of. Friendship and constructive dialogue, Angola recommends that Tanzania: one, finalize its National Human Rights Awareness Program; two, continue translating laws into Kiswahili to improve access to justice; Three, strengthen official digital skills to support inclusive development. Angola wishes Tanzania every success in this review and reaffirms its solidarity and friendship. Thank you, Mr. President. HRC · Vice-President [45:15]: Thank you. I call on Armenia. Armenia [45:19]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Armenia welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and thanks for the presentation of its national report. We acknowledge the efforts undertaken by Tanzania during the previous review cycle to promote and protect human rights, particularly measures to strengthen access to social services, improve health care, and education. We also take note of the Government's commitment to continue strengthening its national human rights framework. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Armenia recommends that United Republic of Tanzania: 1) strengthen its national human rights mechanism, finalize and implement the second National Human Rights Action Plan; and 2) take measures to protect civic space and democratic freedoms, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association. We wish the United Republic of Tanzania every success in its current review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [46:16]: Thank you, Akele, on Australia. Australia [46:21]: Thank you, Vice President. We thank the delegation for its presentation. Australia welcomes Tanzania's acceptance of Australia's previous recommendations related to the rights of persons with disabilities, freedom of expression, and raising the legal age of marriage. Australia urges Tanzania to accelerate implementation of these reforms. Australia recommends Tanzania: 1. Establish an immediate formal moratorium on the death penalty. With a view to its abolition, and become party to the Second Optional Protocol to the ICCPR; 2. Conduct an independent investigation into allegations of excessive use of force following the 2025 Tanzanian elections, hold those responsible to account, and lift restrictions on freedoms of assembly and expression, civil society, and the media; Three, repeal laws discriminating against LGBTQIA+ persons, including section 154 of the penal code. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [47:18]: Thank you. I call on Austria. Austria [47:22]: Vice President, Austria welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and thanks them for their report. We welcome measures taken, particularly efforts to improve prison conditions and increase the number of juvenile courts. Austria would like to offer the following recommendations: 1. Accelerate the constitution-making process, ensuring it is transparent and includes consultations with all relevant stakeholders. 2. Strengthen freedom of expression and protection of political actors, activists, and journalists from harassment, assault, arbitrary detention, and enforced disappearances. 3. Raise the minimum age of marriage to 18 years for both girls and boys by finalizing the amendment of the Marriage Act in compliance with the High Court's decision. Four, ensure effective implementation of re-entry policies for pregnant girls and young mothers through adequate school infrastructure and community-based awareness programs addressing stigma. Five, recognize indigenous peoples as distinct rights holders in the constitution or legislation. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [48:24]: Thank you. I call on Azerbaijan. Azerbaijan [48:29]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We welcome the delegation of Tanzania and thank the delegation for the updates provided. We commend the launch of Tanzania’s Development Vision 2050, which places human dignity, inclusiveness, and equality at the center of the country’s long-term development agenda. We also recognize the measures taken to advance the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities, including the revision of the National Policy on Persons with Disabilities, the launch of the national assistive technology strategy and initiatives to promote their economic empowerment. In the spirit of constructive engagement, we recommend the Government of Tanzania to continue strengthening the implementation of its disability-inclusive policies, with particular attention to accessibility and equal participation in public life. We wish the delegation of Tanzania a successful review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [49:22]: Thank you. I call on Bahrain. Bahrain [49:27]: Vice President, we wish to welcome the delegation of Tanzania. We took note of the report and welcome effort deployed by Tanzania in order to reinforce and protect human rights. In a spirit of constructive dialogue, we offer the following two recommendations. Firstly, continue national efforts to reinforce the rights of women. and empower women socially and economically, and support their participation in all fields of life. Secondly, build on our first in order to protect the rights of the child, including providing programs to improve quality of education and scaling basic services, particularly in remote and rural areas. In closing, we wish Tanzania a successful UPR session. Thank you, Vice President. HRC · Vice-President [50:21]: Thank you. I go on Bangladesh. Bangladesh [50:25]: Mr. Vice President, Bangladesh warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and thanks them for the national report. We commend the government for its efforts to expand access to justice, strengthen social protection, and improve public services. We also appreciate its progress in promoting gender equality, education, healthcare, and the rights of persons with disabilities. In a spirit of constructive cooperation, I would like to recommend the following: 1. Consider ratifying outstanding core international human rights instruments. 2. Strengthen the implementation of the Second National national plan of action to end violence against women and children, particularly through improved protection and support services for victims; three, enhance equitable access to quality education and essential health care services, particularly for vulnerable communities in underserved areas. We wish United Republic of Tanzania a successful review. I thank you, Mr. Vice President. HRC · Vice-President [51:27]: Thank you. I call on Belarus. Belarus [51:33]: Distinguished Vice President, Belarus welcomes delegation of Tanzania and thanks it for presenting the report. We commend the progress in enjoyment of the right to health with increased financing for the healthcare sector and a related increase in the network of medical establishments. We recommend continuing measures to broaden public access to quality health care, including in rural places. We wish Tanzania as a successful UPR. Thank. You. HRC · Vice-President [52:05]: Thank you. Belgium. Belgium [52:08]: Thank you, Vice President. Belgium welcomes Tanzania's continued engagement with the UN human rights system. However, Belgium remains concerned about restrictions on civic space. In this regard, Belgium kindly recommends Tanzania to: one, ratify and domesticate the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance; two, promptly, independently, and impartially investigate all allegations of enforced disappearances, unlawful killings, arbitrary arrests, and detention of opposition members, journalists, and government critics, ensure that those responsible are held accountable. And provide victims and their families with effective remedies and access to justice. Given the absence of meaningful progress since the previous UPR cycle, Belgium would like to reiterate the following recommendation: 3. Amend the Law of Marriage Act in compliance with the decision of the High Court of Tanzania with a view to end child early and forced marriage and conduct awareness campaigns against. Early marriage and child labour. We wish the delegation of Tanzania a fruitful review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [53:10]: Thank you. I call on Bhutan. Bhutan [53:15]: Vice President, Bhutan warmly welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and thanks them for presenting their national report. We commend Tanzania for increasing health sector financing, achieving reductions in maternal mortality, expanding the productive social safety net to cover over 5.1 million beneficiaries, including persons with disabilities. To support its continued efforts, we recommend Tanzania to: 1. Enhance capital investments in education to alleviate classroom overcrowding and further expand special needs infrastructure. 2. Increase the deployment of health care workers to underserved rural areas and expand youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services. And three, expedite implementation of the National Women Access to Justice Strategy and further scale up the legal aid campaign to improve legal literacy and ensure free legal representation for those in need. We wish Tanzania a successful review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [54:12]: Thank you. I call on Brazil. Brazil [54:15]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Brazil welcomes the delegation of Tanzania and commends its progress in protecting vulnerable groups, including. The National Action Plan for Persons with Albinism and the guidelines being rolled in pregnant girls and adolescent mothers in. Formal education. However, we remain concerned by the criminalization of same-sex relations and encourage comprehensive protections for LGBT individuals. In a constructive spirit, Brazil recommends that Tanzania: 1. Strengthen accountability mechanisms to ensure independent and impartial investigations into allegations of human rights violations committed by security forces, to enact legal protections and policies to safeguard press freedom, protect journalists and civil society members from arbitrary arrest. And ensure an impeded public access to digital communication platforms and media outlets, both online and offline. We wish Tanzania a successful review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [55:15]: Thank you, Brunei Darussalam. Brunei Darussalam [55:18]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Brunei Darussalam warmly welcome the delegation of Tanzania to Geneva and thanks them for presenting their national report. We acknowledge Tanzania's commitment to social economic transformation, particularly through the Tanzania Development Vision 2050, which set out an ambitious agenda for inclusive economic growth, human development, and environmental sustainability. In this period of constructive engagement, we would like to offer three recommendation, first, to continue implementing the Tanzania Development Vision 2050, with a view to further improving the living standards of its people. Second, to strengthen efforts to advance disability-inclusive development, including through greater access to assistive technology. And third, to continue advancing environmental protection and sustainability, including by promoting the development and use of clean and renewable energy. Mr. Vice President, Purna Dhar Salam wishes Tanzania a successful review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [56:19]: Thank you. I call on Burkina Faso. Burkina Faso [56:26]: Thank you, Vice President. Burkina Faso welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania, led by His Excellency the Minister of Constitutional and Legal Affairs, and welcomes its cooperation with EPR. My delegation welcomes the substantial progress of Tanzania on maternal and child health, elimination of discrimination against women, and birth registration. In a constructive spirit, we recommend: 1. Continue to protect the family. based on marriage between a man and a woman as the basic unit of society; 2, establish systems to protect victims of child marriage and female genital mutilation who bring police complaints. We wish Tanzania every success in this review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [57:20]: Thank you. I call on Burundi. Burundi [57:24]: Thank you, Vice-President. welcomes the delegation of Tanzania and wishes it every success in this review. We commend the ongoing efforts since independence to strengthen human rights and consolidate the legal and institutional frameworks and the readiness to strengthen the administration of justice. We welcome the remarkable progress in women's leadership, good governance and access to justice, illustrated by the Mama Samia campaign. We welcome the progress made for women, children and persons with disabilities, and progress in health and education. We commend the Vision 2050 of the National Plan against child labour and for the rights of persons with albinism. Our recommendation: continue policies for inclusion, including for persons with albinism in the context of the Vision 2050, and consolidate access to justice via the Mama Samia campaign. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [58:25]: Thank you. I call on Cameroon. Cameroon [58:31]: Thank you, President. Cameroon welcomes delegation of Tanzania and thanks it for presenting the national report. My delegation commends the efforts by this brotherly country to promote human rights, especially through the various initiatives for national reconciliation, empowerment of women, and access to essential services for vulnerable groups. In a spirit of solidarity and constructive dialogue, we recommend: Continue implementing the National Strategy on the Rights of Persons with Albinism. Strengthening measures to protect them against violence and harmful practices. Accelerate legislative reforms to strengthen the protection of girls against early marriage. Continue efforts to improve access by rural populations to health care. notably by strengthening the presence of qualified health care personnel in insufficiently covered areas. We wish Tanzania every success in this review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [59:35]: Thank you. I call on Canada. Canada [59:39]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Canada thanks Tanzania for participating in this Universal Periodic Review. Canada welcomes Tanzania's efforts to protect the rights of pregnant girls and adolescent mothers to education. In the context of the 2025 electoral violence and concerning response to protests and opposition voices, Canada recommends that Tanzania: one. Amend the Penal Code, chapter 16, to abolish the death penalty; two, ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; three, amend the Media Services Act, 2016, to remove administrative powers to suspend or close media outlets to ensure consistency with international human rights obligations and standards. Canada also recommends that Tanzania 4, amend the Law of Marriage Act 1971 to establish 18 years as the minimum legal age of marriage for girls and boys, consistent with the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Canada remains concerned about human rights violations of LGBTQI+ persons and encourages Tanzania to repeal discriminatory legal provisions. Based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:00:44]: Thank you. Ecuador, Julie. Ecuador [1:00:48]: Thank you, Vice President. We welcome the delegation of Tanzania and commend the adoption of the legislative reforms on early childhood, especially the reform on the law on children. which provides for criminalization of the distribution and holding of material portraying sexual exploitation and abuse of children online. In a constructive spirit, we recommend: 1. A moratorium on executions with a view to to abolishing the death penalty, to commute the existing death sentences, and to ensure fair justice. Two, repeal all legal provisions which penalize same-sex consenting relations. Three, adopt the necessary legislative reforms to prohibit child marriage, placing the age of 18 as the minimum with no exception. And four, guarantee the right, the exercise of political rights and civil liberties of citizens, including freedom of association. We wish Tanzania every success in this review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:01:56]: Thank you. I call on Colombia. Colombia [1:01:59]: Thank you, Vice President. Colombia welcomes the distinguished delegation of Tanzania and recommends: 1. Enshrine the right to education in the Constitution and adopt necessary measures to ensure free pre-school education for at least one year; 2. Adopt legislative and administrative measures to strengthen representation and equitable participation by women in leadership and decision-making posts at all levels; 3. Broaden coverage and strengthen programmes for social protection to reduce poverty and ensure adequate living standards for all, and particularly for vulnerable persons; 4. Accelerate the necessary normative reforms to place the age of 18 as the minimum for marriage without exception and strengthen effective application with a view to eradicating child marriage. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:02:58]: Thank you. I call on Congo. Congo [1:03:05]: Thank you, Vice President. Congo warmly welcomes the delegation of Tanzania and congratulates it on the presentation of the national report. We welcome the implementation of the National Strategy for Inclusive Education to 2026 with the construction of schools for children with visual disabilities. In a constructive spirit, we recommend one step-up effort to mobilize more resources to strengthen child protection. Two, increase school enrollment rates and re-enrollment for young mothers and children with disabilities in rural areas, with a real focus on detention conditions in prisons. We wish every success in this review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:04:07]: Thank you. I call on Costa Rica. Costa Rica [1:04:10]: Thank you, Vice President. Costa Rica, thanks Tanzania for presenting its report and congratulate it on the new laws addressing corruption and its impact on human rights. We thank them for their response to the question on the human right to a safe, clean environment. We recommend One, continuing efforts to combat discrimination, particularly with better protection for persons with albinism, persons affected by leprosy. Two, step up efforts to stop violence against women and children and prevent trafficking. Three, end instrumentalization of the judicial system to attack political opposition figures, and investigate and prevent the use of summary execution and arbitrary detention, particularly during electoral periods. Four, reform the law on NGOs and the law on associations to ensure that civil society can politically organize without undue pressure and ensure access to accountability mechanisms. And five, ensure human rights and self-determination of indigenous peoples in line with the UNDRIP, stopping expulsions. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:05:21]: Call on Croatia. Croatia [1:05:23]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Croatia welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and thanks them for the presentation of their report. We commend the progress achieved since the last UPR cycle, especially implementation of the recommendation to strengthen measures to safeguard the health rights of women, particularly on issues relating to prenatal and postnatal care. Croatia recommends the following: 1. Strengthen gender-responsive data systems to improve accountability and service delivery nationwide. 2. Allocate increased resources to reinforce child protection mechanisms and ensure effective implementation of children's rights. 3. Increase financial investments to strengthen national systems of registration and information management related to the protection of persons with disabilities. We wish the United Republic of Tanzania a successful UPR session. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:06:15]: Thank you. I call on Cuba. Cuba [1:06:21]: Vice President, we warmly welcome the delegation of Tanzania. We recognise its commitment to the EUPR and the progress in promoting and protecting human rights. We commend the adoption of the development vision to 2050 and the mainstreaming of human rights in planning and implementation of national development strategies. In a constructive spirit, we recommend: 1. Continue to adopt measures for the inclusion of persons with albinism; 2. continue to promote strategic investment in infrastructure in the productive sector in order to broaden economic opportunities and living standards for the population. We wish Tanzania every success in this review and in implementing the recommendations it accepts. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:07:18]: Thank you. I will now give the floor to the delegation to address the questions and comments already raised, calling on the Permanent Secretary first. United Republic of Tanzania · Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Constitutional and Legal Affairs [1:07:36]: Chairman, I thank you very much, and in the spirit of constructive dialogue, I would like to respond to the few issues that were raised by members. Regarding the issue about implementation of the human right to clean, health and sustainable environment. Mr. President, the government has made significant progress in strengthening environmental protection. We have a legal framework and environmental accountability through the Environmental Management Act. We are also implementing the National Clean Cooking Strategy as part of the Clean Energy Initiative towards a non-toxic environment. Tanzania has strengthened climatic resilience agriculture and promote sustainable climate investment through the environmental management of carbon trading regulations. Tanzania continues to implement its commitment under the Paris Agreement and the Convention on Biological Diversity. These commitments are reflected in national climate adaptation, biodiversity, conservation, environmental governance, and sustainable development programs. Mr. President, there are also issues related to the death, abolition of the death penalty. The United Republic of Tanzania remains committed to strengthening its human rights framework and continues to undertake national stakeholders consultation on outstanding international human rights instruments. These consultations seek to build a national consensus assess compatibility with domestic laws and determine the legal and institutional requirements for effective implementation. Regarding the death penalty, Tanzania has maintained a de facto moratorium on execution since 1994, although capital punishment remains prescribed for certain offences under domestic law. Further, although Tanzania has not ratified the Convention against Torture. The Constitution prohibits torture and inhuman or degrading punishment or treatment. Mr. President, there are also issues raised concerning girls who experience a second pregnancy to re-enter the education system. President, the United Republic of Tanzania is committed to ensuring that pregnancy and motherhood do not permanently deprive girls of their right to education. Regarding girls experiencing second pregnancy and the mandatory waiting period, the available policy material does not establish that general entitlement to immediately end following a second pregnancy. or the complete removal of all waiting requirements. The government continuing priority is to strengthen equitable access to education, apply re-entry arrangement consistently, protect learners from discrimination, and ensure that adolescent mothers can complete their studies through appropriate formal or alternative pathways. There was another issue that also we are right. regarding revision of the Law of Marriage Act set to 18 years at the legal minimum age for both girls and boys. Mr. President, the government recognized the decision of the Court of Appeal in Attorney General vis-à-vis Rebecca Gyumi, which called for amending the Law of Marriage Act. In response, the government initiated legislative reforms aimed at establishing 18 years as the minimum age of marriage for both girls and boys. In parallel, the government continues to address the underlying causes of child marriage through girls' education, school retention, and re-entry opportunities, community awareness, birth registration, and strengthened child protection services. These measures are implemented in collaboration with the relevant stakeholders, including civil organizations and development partners. Mr. President, before I welcome the expert to continue commenting on other issues that will arise, I trust this overview of the A few questions that I have responded provide clarity, and we are ready to engage with the State which submitted their questions for further discussions. As we work towards overcoming the challenges in the full implementation of the UPR recommendation, which we believe is ongoing process, I thank you and allow me to welcome expert for further clarification. United Republic of Tanzania · Delegation Expert [1:12:52]: Thank you. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, I'd like to make some comments with regard to enforced disappearance. The United Republic of Tanzania condemns enforced disappearance, abductions, arbitrary detention, and other unlawful deprivation of liberty. The government emphasizes, however, that not every reported disappearance or abduction constitutes an enforced disappearance in law. Every disappearance requires evidence of state involvement, authorization, support, or acquiescence, together with concealment or refusal to acknowledge the deprivation of liberty. At the same time, however, the government does not treat unsolved cases as closed. There is no limitation on investigation. Cases involving persons whose whereabouts remain unknown, including politically sensitive cases, continue to require investigation on their individual facts. The government remains committed to investigating every credible report, establishing the fate and whereabouts of missing persons, prosecuting criminal conduct where evidence exists, and ensuring accountability where state involvement or other unlawful conduct is established. I would also like to respond to issues concerning same sex relations. This is not condoned in the United Republic of Tanzania, it goes against our moral fibers, religion, customs, and traditions, and it remains an offense in our penal code. With regard to issues concerning freedom of expression, media regulation, and safety of journalists, our constitution guarantees freedom of opinion and expression, and there's There's pluralism, media pluralism in Tanzania. As of September 2026, we had 375 registered newspapers and magazines, 76 television stations, 299 radio stations, 14 online radio stations, 224 online television stations, and 76 registered blogs. The government continues to promote a diverse and professional media sector while ensuring that regulatory measures are undertaken in accordance with law, due process, and available administrative and judicial review mechanisms. With regard to human rights defenders, civil society, and the civil space, civil society organizations and human rights defenders are important partners in Tanzania's development. They're important during governance and in our human rights framework. The government engages CSOs through national consultations, sector programs, and annual CSO forums. By 2026, there are 7,575 registered NGOs and 710 registered societies. Tanzania remains committed to constructive engagement to civil society and to strengthening safeguards for human rights defenders. There was a matter raised with regard to indigenous people in Tanzania. We'd like to categorically reaffirm our position that there are no indigenous people in Tanzania. The concept of indigenous in Tanzania has not received the support of the government. We say that all Tanzanians of African descent are indigenous to Tanzania. This, however, does not mean that economic, social, cultural rights are not made available to all local communities. With regard to persons with disabilities, we welcome the comment celebrating the efforts made by the Government, and Tanzania continues to strengthen the protection, inclusion, and socio-economic participation of persons with disabilities. According to the 2022 population housing census, Approximately 5.6 million people aged between seven and above, equivalent to 11.2% of the population, have some form of disability, while broadly comparable prevalence between mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar. And the government will continue strengthening disability inclusive planning, accessibility, access to assistive technologies, health and education services, economic empowerment, and protection from discrimination and violence in collaboration with organizations of persons with disabilities and other stakeholders. We received a comment with regard to our Vision 2050. Our Vision 2050 is built on the foundation of good governance, peace, security, and stability, with a strong governance framework centered on constitutionalism, the rule of law, and human rights. In this regard, we consider it a human rights approach to development. It emphasizes the importance of building people's trust in the government, national unity, social cohesion, inclusive participation, and patriotism. It also builds upon the achievements of Vision 2025, where there were a number of socioeconomic achievements, including an increase in life expectancy, significant decline in maternal mortality, access to clean, safe water, increased primary school enrollment, and efforts to strengthen corruption were increased and strengthened. Therefore, we hold dear and appreciate the comment to implement our Vision 2025. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:18:43]: Thank you for these additional explanations. And now we will resume. The interactive dialogue. Next on the list is the distinguished representative of Cyprus. Cyprus [1:18:54]: We welcome the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and thank them for the presentation of their report. We commend the adoption of the National Strategy on the Rights of Persons with Albinism, improvements in maternal health care, as well as the progress in expanding water infrastructure and social protection programmes. Cyprus would like to offer the following recommendations: 1. Ratify CAT, as well as the second optional protocol to the ICCPR aiming at the abolition of the death penalty. 2. Ensure inclusive, quality education for all children and strengthen measures to prevent school dropout and discrimination. Three, ensure equitable access to affordable, quality health care, particularly for women, children, and persons with disabilities. And four, adopt comprehensive legislation on gender-based violence, including female genital mutilation, and guarantee equal rights for women to inherit, own, and control land and property. We wish Tanzania a successful review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:19:51]: Thank you. And now we would like to recognize the representative of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. Democratic People's Republic of Korea [1:19:57]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea commends the United Republic of Tanzania for the progress it has made in health care, education, and human rights awareness, as well as for its efforts to improve the well-being of its people. The DPRK recommends that Tanzania continue to expand equitable access to quality health care and education, particularly for vulnerable groups and people living in rural areas. To continue to promote. Human rights education and strengthen national efforts to protect and promote human rights in line with its international commitments. Three, continue to promote the inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable groups in public life and development processes. We wish Tanzania every success in UPR process. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:20:52]: Thank you. Now, the distinguished representative of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Democratic Republic of the Congo [1:21:03]: We would like to welcome and commend the delegation from Tanzania for their report. We would like to welcome the laudable efforts and the progress made by Tanzania since the last UPR review, namely by ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the adoption of the National Strategy for the Elimination of Child Labour. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, we would like to make the following recommendations, of which there are 2. 1. To ratify the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhumane, and Degrading Treatment or Punishment, as well as its optional protocol. 2. To adopt the law aimed at protecting human right defenders. To conclude, my delegation would like to wish every success to the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania as it pursues its efforts in the UPR. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:21:53]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Denmark is recognized. Denmark [1:21:57]: Thank you. Denmark welcomes the delegation of Tanzania. Denmark was encouraged to see the lifting of the ban on political party rallies and steps taken to protect freedom of opinion after 2022. We are, however, deeply concerned by reports of grave human rights violations reported over the past year. Denmark recommends Tanzania to: 1. Ensure prompt, thorough, and impartial investigations into all extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances committed during the 2025 election period, and bring those responsible to justice. 2. amend the section 43 of the Police Force and Auxiliary Services Act in compliance with article 21 of the ICCPR; three, ratify the Convention against Torture. The Convention against Torture initiative stands ready to assist. Denmark wishes Tanzania a successful review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:22:58]: Thank you. Distinguished representative of Djibouti has the floor. Djibouti [1:23:04]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Djibouti would like to welcome the high-level delegation of Tanzania and thank it for the presentation of its national report. Djibouti welcomes the measures that have been taken by the United Republic of Tanzania to promote human rights within the framework of its national plans, strategies, and legislation, including the many measures aimed at protecting children, women, older persons, and persons with disabilities. She would like to make the following recommendations to the United Republic of Tanzania: 1. Continue to strengthen the role and capacity of child protection systems in order to prevent child trafficking and to take all necessary measures to combat child exploitation. 2. Continue efforts to promote social development, guaranteeing that all citizens, without discrimination, have access to basic social services. including health care, education, drinking water, and sanitation. Lastly, we wish the United Republic of Tanzania every success in conducting its review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:24:03]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of the Dominican Republic is recognized. Dominican Republic [1:24:07]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Dominican Republic would like to thank the United Republic of Tanzania for the presentation of its national report, and we have taken note of the measures that have been adopted to extend access to education and to improve its institutions. Constructively, we would like to present the following recommendations: 1. To continue constitutional and electoral reforms aimed at improving the independence and transparency of electoral institutions; 2. To ensure that there are effective mechanisms of judicial review of the electoral results and to promote political participation that is inclusive; 3. To guarantee that allegations of human rights violations following the October 2025 elections are effectively and independently investigated, and that they guarantee access to justice and reparations for victims, as well as guarantees of non-repetition. The Dominican Republic would like to encourage the United Republic of Tanzania to continue its efforts to improve promotion and protection of human rights. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:25:17]: The distinguished representative of Egypt has the floor. Egypt [1:25:20]: We would like to thank the United. Republic of Tanzania's delegation for their report, which shows the progress made in the area of human rights. We welcome the progress that has been made in the implementation of the recommendations coming from previous cycles, improving levels of national development. Constructively, we would like to recommend: to improve access to drinking water and sanitation by extending services, mainly in rural areas; and second, to continue to promote the right to health, especially for children, thereby ensuring that all citizens have access to universal and affordable health care. Thank you very much. We wish every success. HRC · Vice-President [1:26:15]: Thank you, distinguished representative of Eritrea, Hasselmoor. Eritrea [1:26:20]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We warmly welcome the distinguished delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania. We welcome progress in poverty reduction, agricultural development, and food security, supported by increased investment in irrigation, agricultural mechanization, and climate-resilient farming. Eritrea humbly recommends the following: One, continue efforts to expanding access to assistive technologies and strengthen the implementation of accessibility standards across public infrastructure, transport, education, and digital services, including in rural areas; two, further strengthen support for smallholder farmers, particularly through improved access to irrigation, agricultural inputs, and climate-resilient technologies to consolidate gains in food security and poverty reduction. We wish the Government every success with the implementation of the recommendation that it accepts. I thank you, Mr. Vice President. HRC · Vice-President [1:27:11]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Estonia is recognized. Estonia [1:27:17]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Estonia welcomes the delegation of Tanzania and thanks for the presentation of the national report. Estonia welcomes Tanzania's efforts to advance gender equality, combat gender-based violence, and to promote girls' continued access to education. We recommend to: 1. Ensure that political parties, civil society organizations, journalists, and human rights defenders can operate freely, safely, and independently, including before, during, and after elections. Two, refrain from internet shutdowns and arbitrary platform blocking, and ensure that restrictions on online content meet the test of legality, necessity, and proportionality. And three, repeal discriminatory customary inheritance provisions and guarantee equal rights for women to inherit, own, and control land and property. We wish Tanzania a successful review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:28:12]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Eswatini is recognized. Eswatini [1:28:19]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Eswatini welcomes the delegation from the United Republic of Tanzania and commends it for the continued engagement with the UPR process and other international and regional human rights mechanisms. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Eswatini recommends the following. One, strengthen the institutional capacity of youth agencies and fully operationalize the Ministry of Youth Affairs through adequate budgetary allocation. Two, review the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2008 and consider explicitly prohibiting trafficking in body parts and ensure swift prosecutions of perpetrators of trafficking in persons. Three, extend existing social protection programs to adequately cover all vulnerable groups, including domestic workers, persons with leprosy, and persons with albinism. Eswatini wishes Tanzania a successful review. Thank you, Mr. Vice President. HRC · Vice-President [1:29:27]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Ethiopia is recognized. Ethiopia [1:29:31]: Mr. Vice President, Ethiopia warmly welcomes the distinguished high-level delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania. We appreciate Tanzania's efforts to promote socio-economic development, expand access to education and health care, strengthen social protection, and advance gender equality. In the spirit of constructive dialogue and solidarity, Ethiopia wishes to offer the following two recommendations: One, continue strengthening access to quality education and health care, particularly in rural and underdeveloped areas. Two, continue enhancing measures to promote women empowerment and protect drawn from all forms of violence and exploitation. In conclusion, Ethiopia values its long-standing cooperation with Tanzania and wishes a successful outcome of this review. I thank you, Mr. Vice President. HRC · Vice-President [1:30:14]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Finland has the floor. Finland [1:30:18]: Mr. Vice President, Finland welcomes Tanzania's engagement in the UPR process. We commend its notable progress in reducing maternal mortality. Finland recommends Tanzania: 1. To reform electoral laws and institutions to ensure operational independence of electoral management bodies, transparent appointments, and inclusive voter education. 2. To publish findings on the report of the Commission of Inquiry into violence and human rights violations linked to the October 2025 elections, ensure accountability, and provide reparations to victims and families. Three, to ensure human rights defenders, journalists, political parties, and civil society organizations operate freely, safely, and independently. Four, to strengthen judicial independence, legal aid access, police accountability, and safeguards against prolonged pre-trial detention. We wish Tanzania a successful review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:31:19]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of France is recognized. France [1:31:24]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. France welcomes the delegation of Tanzania, and we wish them a successful UPR. France welcomes the efforts that Tanzania has made for the protection of maternal and child health, and we would like to make the following recommendations: 1. To ratify the International Convention from the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance; 2. To abolish the death penalty and ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, abolishing the death penalty; Three, ensure freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association, as well as freedom of the press, by combating all forms of intimidation against journalists, political activists, and lawyers. And four, continue efforts to protect the rights of women and girls by combating child, early, and forced marriage, and by promoting the retention of pregnant girls and adolescent mothers in school. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:32:23]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Gabon is recognized. Gabon [1:32:31]: Mr. Vice President, Gabon would like to welcome the delegation of Tanzania and congratulate them for the presentation of their national report. We welcome the progress that has been made by Tanzania in the representation of women in political sphere and decision-taking bodies, which can be seen by the election of a woman at the head of the republic. We welcome the positive measures that have been taken to combat poverty, stigmatization, and discrimination of people living with albinism or with leprosy. We encourage this progress, and constructively, we would like to recommend: 1. To intensify its efforts to combat child marriage by raising the minimum age of marriage to the age of 18. Two, to strengthen measures aimed at eradicating child labor, mainly in the sectors of agriculture, fishery, mining, and domestic work. We wish every success to Tanzania for this review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:33:30]: Thank you. Distinguished representative of Gambia is recognized. Gambia [1:33:34]: Vice President, Gambia welcomes the distinguished delegation of Tanzania. and congratulates them for presenting the national report and for the continued cooperation with the UPR mechanism. We comment on Tanzania's 2022 school re-entry guidelines and encourage their effective implementation, particularly to ensure that adolescent mothers can return to school of their choice without discrimination or stigmatization. Constructively, we have the following recommendations. Implement the 2025 National Menstrual Hygiene Guidelines, improving access to affordable menstrual products, clean water, and private sanitation facilities for girls in schools. Two, implement a national multi-sectoral strategy to end female genital mutilation, focusing on prevention and support for survivors. Three, establish 18 as the minimum legal age of marriage for girls and boys without exception. Four, ratify the UN Convention against Torture and as well the Convention against Enforced Disappearances. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:34:36]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Georgia is recognized. Georgia [1:34:41]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Georgia thanks the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania for its presentation. We welcome the steps taken to strengthen the national human rights framework, including the ongoing development of the second National Human Rights Action Plan and the efforts to enhance cooperation with international and regional human rights mechanisms. Georgia also recognizes the progress achieved in strengthening child protection, including through the National Child Online Protection Campaign, as well as the adoption of the National Action Plan on the Elimination of Child Labour. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Georgia would like to make the following recommendations: one, to further strengthen child protection systems and reinforce efforts towards ensuring adequate resources for their effective implementation; two, to continue strengthening disability-inclusive policies and programmes, including by further improving data collection and registration systems for persons with disabilities, building on the progress already achieved. We wish the delegation of Tanzania a successful review, and thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:35:42]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Germany is recognized. Germany [1:35:47]: Thank you very much, Mr. Vice President. Germany welcomes the delegation from Tanzania. We appreciate Tanzania’s constructive participation in the UPR process. Germany remains deeply concerned about the significant deterioration of the human rights situation in Tanzania following the 2025 elections. Germany recommends:. One, remove legal and administrative restrictions that unduly limit political activity and ensure the free and equal participation of all political parties in political and electoral processes. Two, ensure an independent and transparent investigation into killings, enforced disappearances, and other human rights violations in connection with the 2025 elections, publish its findings, and hold those responsible to account. Three, review legislation providing for the automatic denial of bail, including for treason, and ensure that pre-trial detention is subject to individual judicial review in line with international human rights standards. We wish Tanzania a successful review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:36:54]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Ghana has the floor. Ghana [1:37:00]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Ghana welcomes the distinguished delegation of Tanzania to its fourth UPR cycle and applauds its efforts to promote and protect human rights since its third UPR cycle. We commend Tanzania's efforts to advancing the human rights of persons with albinism through the implementation of the National Action Plan for the Right and Welfare of Persons with Albinism, which seeks to strengthen their promotion, protection against discrimination and violence, and promote access to health care, education, and economic opportunities. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Ghana recommends that Tanzania consider ratifying the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhumane, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and two, increase financing for its health sector and strengthening its primary health care services. Ghana wishes Tanzania a successful review. I thank you, Mr. Vice President. HRC · Vice-President [1:38:00]: Thank you. The distinguished delegation of Guyana, who is not in the room. So then the next delegation is distinguished representative of Haiti. You have the floor. Haiti [1:38:21]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. I would like to thank the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania for the presentation of its national report. We welcome the establishment in 2023 of the Presidential Committee on Criminal Justice Reform, as well as the progress made in access to justice and improving women’s representation in senior public office positions. We also welcome the decline of the prevalence rate of female genital mutilation, while also stressing the importance of continuing efforts to eliminate the practice once and for all. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, we would like to make the following recommendation: Strengthen the implementation of the national multi-sectoral strategy by mobilizing the necessary resources, intensifying community awareness, and ensuring the protection of girls and women, and this in order to put an end to female genital mutilation by 2030. My delegation wishes the delegation of Tanzania every success. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:39:32]: Distinguished representative of Iceland has the floor. Iceland [1:39:36]: Thank you, Mr. President. Iceland welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and its national report. In the spirit of constructive engagement, Iceland recommends the following: one, ratify the second optional protocol to the ICCPR and abolish the death penalty; two, eradicate female genital mutilation and criminalize all forms of gender-based. 3. Ensure access to dignified sexual and reproductive health services, including safe abortion. 4. End child marriage by raising the minimum age of marriage to 18 years without exception. 5. Guarantee pregnant learners and adult mothers’ right to remain in or return to school. 6. Decriminalize same-sex conduct and relations between consenting adults, including by repealing relevant sections of the penal code. 7. Adopt comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation explicitly prohibiting discrimination against persons of diverse sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and sex characteristics. I wish. HRC · Vice-President [1:40:47]: Thank you. Now the Council will listen to the statement of the distinguished delegation of India, speaking through a video statement. India [1:40:54]: India warmly welcomes the delegation of United Republic of Tanzania and thanks them for their presentation. We welcome the adoption of various legislative measures to promote and protect human rights, as well as the launch of the National Development Agenda 2050, which places a human rights-based approach at the heart of Tanzania’s long-term development vision. In the spirit of constructive cooperation, India makes the following recommendations to Tanzania: Continue strengthening measures to promote and protect the rights of women and girls, including by preventing gender-based violence and harmful practices, including female genital mutilation. 2. Continue improving access to quality and inclusive education, particularly for children with disabilities, girls and children in rural and underserved areas. 3. Further strengthen measures to protect children from violence, child labour, and early and forced marriage, and enhance support for vulnerable children. We wish the delegation of Tanzania all success in its review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:41:53]: Thank you. It is my understanding that now the delegation wishes to use part of its time available to address comments and observations that have been made thus far. And so one of the delegation’s experts has the floor. The floor is yours. United Republic of Tanzania · Delegation Expert [1:42:15]: I thank you, Mr. President. I would like to respond on the following questions. On the civic space issues, the government of the United Republic of Tanzania recognizes freedom of assembly and association in Article 20, sub-article 1 of the Constitution. Political parties play an important role, multi-party democrats, and are entitled to hold peaceful public meetings in accordance with the law. The political parties act 258, particularly section 23, provides for registered political parties to hold public meetings after notifying the police. It also provides for security agencies to facilitate peaceful and order meeting. Where the police restrict a notified meeting, the decision must be based on the ground provided below. This include concerns about public safety possible breach of the peace or an unlawful purpose. The law also provides for the written reason for a stop order. The government will continue to engage political parties and relevant stakeholders through establishment institution on matters relating to political participation, public meeting, and the administration of electoral laws. Any further legislation Administrative reforms will be considered through the appropriate national process, taking into account the constitution, public safety, and the effective function of democratic. According to FGM and other later gender-based violence, Tanzania implemented the national strategy to end female genital mutilation during the reporting period, followed by the adoption of the national multi-sectoral strategy to end FGM to sustain and strengthen prevention efforts. FGM prevalence declined from 10% in 2015-16 to 8% in 2022-23, with a further reduction to approximately 5% reported in 2025. These figures indicate progress toward elimination of the practice. The government has also prioritized ending violence against women and children through the Second National Plan of Action end violence against women and children. Alongside expanded gender-based violence desks and the survivor support services, therefore, the reported national prevalence decline in the clearest measures progress documented in the supplied materials. I thank you, Mr. President. HRC · Vice-President [1:44:59]: Thank you very much. If there are no additional remarks, Then we will resume the interactive dialogue. Now we would like to give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Iran (Islamic Republic of) [1:45:18]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Islamic Republic of Iran welcomes the delegation of United Republic of Tanzania. We note Tanzania's sustained progress, including the launch of Vision 2050, expansion of electricity access to 79% of the population. The Mama Semi-legal Aid campaign that reached over 7.8 million people, significant reduction in maternal and child mortality, and strengthening measures on gender equality, persons with disability, and. Access to justice. In the sectoral consult dialogue, we offer the following recommendations: 1. Finalize and fully implement the Second National Human Action Plan, aligning it with Vision 2050, to continue expanding social protection programs, including the productive social safety net and voluntary scheme for informal sector workers. 3. Further expand inclusive education and social protection programs for persons with albinism and children with disabilities, including assistive technology and reentry pathways for vulnerable We wish Tanzania a successful review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:46:24]: Thank you. I call upon the distinguished representative of Iraq. Iraq [1:46:30]: Thank you, Mr. Vice Chair. We would like to welcome the head and members of the Tanzania delegation, and we appreciate the efforts in submitting their fourth report. We welcome their adoption of the National. Strategy for People with Albinism 2024-2029 and the National Plan to Develop Education for 2025-2030, and we would like to submit the following recommendations. to pursue efforts to combat human trafficking, establish. Criminal proceedings, and prosecute the perpetrators; second, to pursue efforts to promote quality education, namely to improve students' conditions in rural areas. Finally, we wish the delegation of Tanzania success in this review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:47:20]: Thank you. I call upon the distinguished representative of Ireland. Ireland [1:47:24]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Ireland welcomes the delegation of Tanzania and thanks for its presentation today. Ireland acknowledges Tanzania's efforts to advance human rights domestically. We welcome actions taken to improve gender equality, including the National Gender and Women Development Policy of 2023 and the Second National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children 2024-2029. Ireland is deeply concerned by reported human rights violations in the context of the 2025 elections, including extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and enforced disappearances. We urge Tanzania to address these violations, including publishing the Commission of Inquiry report as an important step towards accountability, transparency, and national reconciliation. Ireland is further concerned by the repression of civic space for civil society, human rights defenders, journalists, and political opponents. Ireland recommends that Tanzania: 1. Amend the Law of Marriage Act of 1971 to establish 18 years as a minimum age of marriage for all persons, and 2. Ensure a safe and enabling environment where civil society organisations, members of all political parties, and human rights defenders can exercise their human rights. We wish Tanzania every success in this UPR cycle. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:48:31]: Thank you. I call upon the distinguished representative of Italy. Italy [1:48:37]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Italy welcomes the National Action Plan of Tanzania for persons with albinism and the second National Plan of Action to end violence against women and children, but encourages further efforts to ensure their effective implementation. Italy offers Tanzania the following recommendations: Consolidate the de facto moratorium on execution by establishing a de jure moratorium with a view to full abolition of the death penalty, ratifying the second optional protocol to the ICCPR. Two, accede to the Convention against Torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degraded treatment or punishment, and ensure prompt, independent, and impartial investigation into all deaths, enforced disappearances, and allegations of torture and ill-treatment. Three, completed the reform process to set 18 years old as the minimum age of marriage for both girls and boys, and extend the criminal prohibition of female genital mutilation to women aged 18 and above. We wish Tanzania a successful review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:49:46]: Thank you. I call upon Japan. Japan [1:49:49]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Japan warmly welcomes the delegation of Tanzania to this session. Japan commends the progress made in advancing the rights of persons affected by leprosy, including efforts to eliminate discrimination and stigma against them. Japan also acknowledges the positive steps taken toward eliminating all forms of discrimination and violence against women and girls, including through the implementation of effective measures to address harmful traditional practices affecting girls. In a spirit of constructive dialogue, Japan recommends to Tanzania: One, sustain efforts to promote the social participation of persons in vulnerable situations, including persons affected by leprosy and persons with disabilities, to ensure that they can fully enjoy their human rights on an equal basis with others. And two, enhance efforts to protect and promote the rights of children in accordance with the human rights instruments that Tanzania has ratified. We wish the delegation of Tanzania every success in the review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:50:50]: Thank you. I give the floor to Jordan. Jordan [1:50:54]: Mr. Chair, we would like to welcome the delegation of Tanzania, and we would like to appreciate their submission of their comprehensive national report that reflects their commitment to promote the human rights system and to develop their legislation. In a constructive spirit, we would like to recommend the following: first, pursue efforts and programs aiming at empowering women economically, facilitating their access to resources, namely in rural areas. Second, to pursue efforts to develop programs in the field of promoting children's rights and promote girls' enrollment in schools. third, to pursue efforts in the field of child and maternal health. We wish Tanzania success in this review. Thank you, Mr. Chair. HRC · Vice-President [1:51:54]: Thank you. I call upon Lesotho. Lesotho [1:52:00]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. My delegation welcomes the delegation from Tanzania and thanks it for its continued engagement with the UPR process and other international and regional human rights mechanisms. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, LUSUTO offers Tanzania the following recommendations: One, consider amending the Constitution and the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance Act to strengthen the Commission's compliance with the Paris Principles. Two, strengthen and ensure an effective re-entry into the education system of teenage mothers. by providing access to assistive devices and other ICT infrastructure, addressing the issue of teenage girls dropouts. Three, implement and adequately fund the Education Sector Development Plan 2025/26 to 2029/30 to enhance the quality of education to be responsive to students' social and economic needs. Lesotho wishes the United Republic of Tanzania a successful review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:53:04]: Thank you. Libya has the floor. Libya [1:53:10]: Mr. Chair, we welcome the delegation of Tanzania and we thank them for their national report. We appreciate their constructive engagement with the UPR. We appreciate their efforts for the sake of protecting and promoting human rights, and we encourage them to pursue these efforts and to seek greater progress in this field. Finally, we wish the. Republic, United Republic of Tanzania success in this review. Thank you, Mr. Chair. HRC · Vice-President [1:53:40]: Thank you. I call upon Lithuania has the floor. Lithuania [1:53:52]: Thank you, Vice President. We welcome the delegation of Tanzania and thank it for its national report. Lithuania would like to make the following recommendations. One, Amend the Law of Marriage Act to establish 18 years as the minimum age of marriage for all persons. 2. Adopt a comprehensive law on gender-based violence. 3. Ratify the Convention against Torture and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. 4. Strengthen judicial independence and policy accountability. 5. arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearance, and other ill-treatment, including against human rights defenders, activists, and political opponents. 6. Reform electoral laws and ensure that political parties, civil society, and journalists can operate freely, safely, and independently during elections. 7. Establish a moratorium on the death penalty and take steps towards its abolition. We wish Tanzania all success in the current EPR. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:54:58]: Thank you. I call upon Luxembourg. Luxembourg [1:55:05]: Thank you, Vice President. Luxembourg greets the delegation from the United Republic of Tanzania and thanks it for its national report. We remain concerned by the human rights situation in Tanzania, particularly following the violence after the presidential election 2025. Luxembourg recommends that Tanzania do the following: ratify the Convention against Torture and its optional protocol; two, adopt a legislative framework which is comprehensive in nature to combat gender-based violence and specifically criminalize marital rape; three, pursue constitutional and judicial reforms aiming to strengthen the independence of the judiciary; four, decriminalize consensual same-sex relations; five, formally abolish the death penalty. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:55:59]: Thank you. I give the floor to Malaysia. Malaysia [1:56:03]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Malaysia welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and appreciates the presentation of its national report. We commend Tanzania for advancing its human rights initiatives, including through its National Development Vision 2050, and the Second National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children. In the spirit of constructive engagement, Malaysia recommends the following: 1. Strengthen efforts to combat trafficking in persons by enhancing the investigation and prosecution of trafficking offences, improving data collection, and ensuring effective protection and support of victims. Two, strengthen the implementation of measures to prevent and address gender-based violence against women and girls, including through adequately resourced protection services and effective support for survivors. And three, strengthen efforts to ensure equitable access to quality and affordable health care, particularly in underserved and rural areas. Malaysia wishes the United Republic of Tanzania a successful review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:57:04]: Thank you. I call upon the Maldives. Maldives [1:57:11]: Mr. Vice President, the Maldives warmly welcomes the high-level delegation from the United Republic of Tanzania to this fourth cycle review. And thanks to the delegation for their presentation today. The Maldives commends Tanzania for its commitment to addressing climate change and strengthening climate resilience. In this regard, we welcome the implementation of the National Climate Change Response Strategy and the adoption of the Disaster Management Act of 2022, as well as initiatives to enhance coastal resilience and promote youth engagement in climate change education. In a constructive spirit, the Maldives makes the following recommendations: One, increase investment in disability data and information systems, including the registration of persons with disabilities. Two, integrate human rights safeguards into climate policies, enhance inclusive climate financing, and strengthen human rights impact assessments of climate-related disasters. The Maldives wishes Tanzania a successful review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [1:58:16]: Thank you, Ambassador. It is now Mali's turn to take the floor, but they're not in the floor. And if that is the case, I will then give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malta. You have the floor. Malta [1:58:30]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Malta welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and thanks them for the country report. We note the National Report’s statement that since the third UPR cycle, no human rights conventions or instruments have been ratified. Malta encourages Tanzania to expedite the national processes listed in paragraph 13 of its National Report to enhance human rights protections to its citizens. We would like to make the following recommendations: 1. Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. 2. Ratify the Convention against Torture. 3. Repeal sections 154 to 157 of the Penal Code, Chapter 16 RE 2023, mainland Tanzania, and sections 133 to 134 of the Zanzibar Penal Act 2018 that criminalize consensual same-sex conduct between adults. adopt national guidelines guaranteeing uninterrupted and non-discriminatory access to health care, including HIV and SRHR services for LGBTIQ+ persons and key populations, that includes confidentiality, medical ethics, and non-discrimination. HRC · Vice-President [1:59:41]: Thank you. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mauritania. Mauritania [1:59:46]: Thank you, Vice President, to welcome the delegation of Tanzania and thank them for their presentation of national report. We applaud the efforts deployed in order to enforce human rights, particularly the launch of the National Development Plan 2020-50, and the progress achieved in the participation of women in public life and the expansion of social protection and health care services. In a spirit of constructive dialogue, we offer the following recommendations. Firstly, continue reinforcing women's rights with regards to land tenure through legal education and facilitation of registration of property. Secondly, expanding birth registration, particularly with regards to children born outside hospitals and remote areas, in order to complete the decentralization and digitalization processes. We wish a successful UPR for Tanzania, and thank you, Vice President. HRC · Vice-President [2:00:48]: Thank you. The Council will now hear a statement by the distinguished representative of Mauritius via video. Mauritius [2:00:56]: Chair, Mauritius welcomes the delegation of Tanzania during this fourth cycle of the UPR, and we appreciate the engagement of the country in the UPR process, an essential pillar of the protection and promotion of human rights. We commend Tanzania for its efforts to expand primary health care, improve maternal and HIV services, and strengthen epidemic preparedness. In a constructive spirit, we recommend that Tanzania undertakes comprehensive electoral and constitutional reforms to ensure electoral independence, transparency, judicial oversight, and more protection of civic space, as well as inclusive participation of all groups in public affairs, and finally, integrates human rights principles, as well as enhanced participation of women and local communities in climate change decision-making. We wish Tanzania a successful review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:01:57]: We will now hear a video statement from the Distinguished Representative of Mexico. Mexico [2:02:02]: Thank you, Vice President. We thank Tanzania for its report, and we acknowledge the presence of women in leadership and decision-making posts. Given that, just like in Mexico, the presidency is held by a woman, and women's representation in parliament increased to 39% in 2025. In a constructive and respectful fashion, Mexico recommends: one, ratify the Convention against Torture and other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment; and criminalise torture as a crime in line with international standards; 2. Guarantee the rights of indigenous peoples, including the Maasai people, and ensure that any measure that may affect their territories and livelihoods be adopted in step with international human rights obligations; established 18 years of age as a minimum legal age to enter into marriage, without any exception. We wish Tanzania a successful review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:03:05]: I now give the floor. To the distinguished representative of Mongolia. Mongolia [2:03:11]: We thank the delegation of Tanzania for presenting its national report. We appreciate Tanzania's efforts to safeguard women's right to health, particularly through improved prenatal and postnatal care and measures to reduce maternal mortality. We also welcome the measures taken to strengthen social protection and improve access to education, and encourage Tanzania to pursue further progress in these areas. In a spirit of constructive dialogue, we offer the following recommendations: 1. To continue strengthening legal safeguards for fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association. 2. To accelerate legal reforms to strengthen the protection of women and children by prohibiting child marriage and corporal punishment in all settings, and strengthening measures to prevent and address domestic violence. We wish Tanzania a successful review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:04:03]: Thank you. Montenegro has the floor. Montenegro [2:04:09]: Mr. Vice President, Montenegro welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and its constructive engagement with the UPR mechanism. We thank the delegation for presenting its national report and for outlining the progress made towards strengthening the national human rights protection system and implementing its international human rights obligations. However, we are concerned by reports of insufficient cooperation with the UN human rights system. We consider the refusal to grant access to the country to special procedures mandate holders unacceptable. Montenegro welcomed the authorities’ stated intention to investigate alleged human rights violations in the context of last year’s elections, and we call for accountability for any violations identified. Montenegro recommends the following: 1. Extend a standing invitation to all special procedures mandate holders. Two, undertake comprehensive constitutional and legislative reforms to strengthen judicial independence and ensure the effective administration of justice. We wish the delegation of Tanzania a successful UPR cycle, and I thank you, Mr. Vice President. HRC · Vice-President [2:05:07]: Thank you. I give the floor to Mozambique. Mozambique [2:05:13]: Mr. President, I thank you. Mozambique warmly welcomes the high-level delegation from its sister country. Tanzania and congratulates it on the presentation of its national report within the framework of the first cycle of the UPR. The OSCE commends the Government of Tanzania for: 1. its continued commitment to cooperating with international human rights mechanisms; 2. its efforts to increase the participation of women in politics, particularly in key decision-making bodies, being among the few countries in the world currently headed by a woman; And three, the ongoing legal and institutional reforms. In a spirit of constructive dialogue, Mozambique would like to offer the following recommendations. One, continue strengthening climate change adaptation, disaster preparedness, inclusive participation in the protection of vulnerable groups. And two, continue efforts to eliminate female genital mutilation. Mozambique wishes Tanzania every success in this review process. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:06:18]: Thank you, Ambassador. I call upon Namibia. Namibia [2:06:24]: Mr. Vice President, Namibia extends a warm welcome to the esteemed delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and commends them for their commitment to the UPR mechanism. We welcome strides made in strengthening the protection and response to gender-based violence, protection of the rights of persons with disability, especially persons with albinism, an increase in women's participation in politics and decision making. We also commend strides made in rural electrification and infrastructure development. Moreover, we welcome the establishment of a criminal investigation commission in May 2026 to address the criminal aspects of the unrest that occurred during and after the general election held in October 2025. We hope that the outcome of the investigation will further demonstrate the country's commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. In a spirit of constructive dialogue, we recommend that Tanzania continue to implement policies in line with international policies. Asante sana. HRC · Vice-President [2:07:32]: Thank you. I give the floor to Nepal. Nepal [2:07:36]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Nepal warmly welcomes the delegation of United Republic of Tanzania to the fourth cycle of UPR and thanks them for the presentation of the national report. We appreciate United Republic of Tanzania for its constructive engagements with the human rights mechanisms and take good note of its efforts to implement the recommendation of the previous cycle. We take note of the progress achieved by Tanzania in the areas of poverty reduction and environmental sustainability. In a constructive spirit, Nepal recommends United Republic of Tanzania the following: 1. Continue efforts to promote green transition and to protect the vulnerable communities from the impacts of climate change through appropriate adaptation and mitigation measures. 2. Step up measures to strengthen health care facilities and to enhance access to health care services for all. We wish United Republic of Tanzania a successful UPR. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:08:38]: Thank you. At this stage in our dialogue, I understand that the delegation would like to take the floor once again to make some comments and observations to the comments made thus far. I give the floor to the Permanent Secretary or the Ambassador. United Republic of Tanzania [2:08:58]: Thank you. I would like to make some comments in response to the October 2025 election-related violence and breaches of peace. The United Republic of Tanzania remains firmly committed to ensuring accountability for unlawful acts arising from the events surrounding the 29th October 2025 general election, upholding the rule of law, and safeguarding the rights of all persons affected. The Government deeply regrets the loss of lives, injuries, and destruction of property, and reiterates that accountability must be comprehensive, impartial, and based on evidence, regardless of the identity, position, or affiliation of those responsible. The events of 29th October, 2025, involved serious disturbances, including reported incidences of violent demonstrations, destructions, looting of public and private property, attacks against individuals, civilians, and law enforcement officers. The government also recognizes the need to examine allegations that the violence was preceded by organized mobilization, inflammatory political rhetoric, incitement, and the use of digital platforms to encourage unlawful acts. The Government emphasizes that accountability must extend to all alleged unlawful conduct, including the planning, financing, organization, and perpetration of violence, attacks against civilians and law enforcement personnel, destruction of property, and any excessive or unlawful use of force during the responses to the disturbances. Independent inquiries and further investigations were established and adopted to investigate the causes, circumstances, and causes of the arrest. Regarding publication of the findings, The Government recognizes the public interest in transparency and access to information concerning the events surrounding the October 2025 general election. Decisions on publication must, however, be considered in accordance with the applicable legal framework, taking into account the protection of confidential information, the rights of affected persons, the integrity of ongoing investigation, and legitimate institutional considerations. The Government's commitment to accountability is not dependent solely on publication of the report. but it is also reflected in the concrete measures undertaking, including the establishment of a second commission to investigate individual responsibility and allegations of unlawful conduct. The government remains committed to taking appropriate action on the findings and recommendations in accordance with the law, with a view to ensuring accountability, access to justice, and prevention of reoccurrence. I thank you. Speaker 140 [2:11:35]: Gracias. HRC · Vice-President [2:11:37]: Thank you. Ambassador, please. United Republic of Tanzania · Ambassador and Permanent Representative [2:11:42]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. I would like to make comments on two issues: one generally on ratification of international human rights instruments, and the other one regarding special procedures. Now, regarding the ratification of international human rights instruments, Tanzania recognizes the importance in strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights. But while international law generally affords states discretion in determining how to implement their treaty obligations domestically, it is equally important to recognize differences in constitutional arrangements, legal systems, and national procedures governing ratification. These differences warrant due consideration, particularly where ratifications require legislative reforms, institutional adjustments, and national consultations. Ratification should therefore be understood as a commitment supported by the legal and institutional arrangements necessary for effective implementation. In this regard, Tanzania continues to examine outstanding international human rights instruments through its established national processes with a view to ensuring that any commitment undertaken can be effectively implemented. And on recent statement by one of the regarding special procedures, we would like to be recorded that Tanzania has never, I repeat, Tanzania has never refused to grant entry to special procedure mandate holders. We've never done so and it has never been our practice. We remain committed to constructive engagement with these mechanisms and continue to cooperate with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, as reaffirmed in his recent statement. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:13:43]: Thank you, Ambassador. If there are no other statements by the delegations, then we can turn to the interactive dialogue, and I call on the Netherlands. Netherlands (Kingdom of the) [2:13:58]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Kingdom of the Netherlands thanks the United Republic of Tanzania for presenting its national report. The Netherlands welcomes Tanzania's progress in combating gender-based violence. We remain concerned about reports of human rights violations during and after the October 2025 elections. In the spirit of constructive cooperation, the Netherlands makes the following recommendations. Review and amend laws restricting civic space to ensure that journalists, human rights defenders, and civil society organizations can. Exercise their rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association without intimidation or reprisal, including during elections. Ensure the effective protection of LGBTIQ+ persons from violence and discrimination through safe and confidential reporting without. Fear of arrest or reprisals and prompt, impartial investigations of reported incidents. The Netherlands wishes Tanzania every success with the follow-up and implementation of all accepted recommendations during this fourth cycle. Thank you, Mr. Vice President. HRC · Vice-President [2:15:02]: Thank you, Acolon, New Zealand. New Zealand [2:15:06]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We warmly welcome the delegation from Tanzania and acknowledge improvements made since Tanzania's previous review, including on economic and social rights. We express serious concerns, however, over reports of enforced disappearances, arbitrary detention, torture, and extrajudicial killings before, during, and after the October 2025 elections. New Zealand recommends that Tanzania: 1. Ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty. 2. Ratify the Convention against Torture. 3. End arbitrary arrests and detentions of political opposition, journalists, human rights defenders, and peaceful protesters, ensuring that all arrests comply with human rights standards, due process, and fair trial guarantees. Four, undertake inclusive electoral and constitutional reforms to ensure electoral independence, transparency, judicial oversight, and strengthen protection of civic space. We thank the delegation for their participation and wish them a successful review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:16:11]: Thank you. I call on Nigeria. Norway [2:16:18]: Nigeria welcomes Tanzania's participation in Universal Periodic Review. We remain deeply concerned about violence and discrimination against women and children, about serious restrictions on civic and political space, and credible reports of extrajudicial killings, disappearances, and arbitrary arrests. NOAHRE recommends that Tanzania: one, ensure accountability for all human rights violations committed in connection with the 2025 elections by addressing such cases through independent, impartial, and transparent processes; Two, ensure the effective protection of the rights of human rights defenders, members of opposition parties, and civil society. Three, review the Media Services Act, Cybercrimes Act, and related regulations to bring them into conformity with international human rights law. Four, amend the Law of Marriage Act to establish 18 as the minimum age of marriage without exceptions. And adopt adequately funded measures to prevent and respond to child marriage. Five, strengthen accountability for gender-based violence, including female genital mutilation. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:17:28]: Thank you. I see that Nigeria is not in the room. So we will now call on the distinguished representative of Oman. Oman [2:17:47]: Thank you, Vice President. My delegation welcomes the delegation of Tanzania, and we welcome the participatory approach to the national report and the efforts to facilitate access to justice. with a broadening of jurisdictional of legal aid and electronic resources. Within this dialogue, we recommend continuing to extend drinking water and sanitation services, particularly in rural areas, and development of the water sector, to provide training for young people and connect them with the labour market. We wish Tanzania every success in this review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:18:48]: Y Llywydd / The Llywydd: Thank you. I call on Algeria. Algeria · Ambassador [2:18:57]: Thank you, Mr. Chair. Algeria warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation of the sisterly Republic of Tanzania, led by His Excellency Honorable Minister. We sincerely commend Tanzania for the progress made in promoting the right to development and the enjoyment of economic, social, and cultural. Rights. We particularly welcome the significant reduction in maternal mortality, supported by the expansion of health infrastructure and the extension of social protection coverage. for more than 5 million beneficiaries. To further consolidate these achievements, Algeria wishes to make the following two recommendations: first one is to continue strengthening its health care system, with particular emphasis on maternal and child health services; and the second one is for Tanzania to further expand social protection programs and access to quality education with a view to ensuring that no one is left behind. We wish the delegation of Tanzania every success. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:20:00]: Thank you, Ambassador. I call on the Philippines. Philippines [2:20:05]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Philippines warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania. We recognize the steps taken to implement recommendations from the previous cycle, including those offered by the Philippines on gender mainstreaming and combating trafficking in persons. We also welcome the launch of the second National Plan of Action to end violence against women and children and the 2022 re-entry guidelines enabling adolescent mothers to return to formal education. To consolidate these gains, allow us to offer the following recommendations. One, continue enhancing measures aimed at addressing child marriage, female genital mutilation, and other forms of gender-based violence. Two, integrate human rights into climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction policies, ensuring the meaningful participation of affected communities. And three, further improve accessibility for persons with disabilities and strengthen protection for persons with albinism from violence and discrimination in line with Vision 2050. We wish Tanzania a successful review. HRC · Vice-President [2:21:11]: Thank you. I call on Poland. Poland [2:21:17]: Mr. President, Poland welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and extends gratitude for the national report. We acknowledge the ongoing efforts to address violence against women and children. Poland also welcomes the establishment of the Ministry for Youth and Development and perceived it as a positive step towards addressing the needs and aspirations of young people. However, we remain concerned about restrictions on civic space and reports of serious human rights violations surrounding the 2025 election. Poland recommends that Tanzania amends legislation that is currently restricting freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association to ensure compliance with international human rights obligations and ensures a safe and supportive environment for journalists and human rights defenders. conducts prompt, independent and impartial investigations into alleged unlawful killings and forced disappearances and torture, including in the electoral context; holds perpetrators accountable and provides effective remedies to victims; strengthens measures. To prevent child early and forced HRC · Vice-President [2:22:26]: Thank you. I call on Portugal. Portugal [2:22:30]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Portugal welcomes the delegation of Tanzania and thanks it for the presentation of its national report. We welcome the implementation of the universal health insurance scheme that made health coverage mandatory and aims to eliminate financial barriers to medical care. Portugal respectfully recommends that Tanzania: 1. abolish the death penalty and ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the ICCPR; Two, undertake constitutional and legislative reforms to strengthen judicial independence and safeguard the effective exercise of the rights to freedom of expression, association, peaceful assembly, and political participation in accordance with international human rights standards. Three, strengthen the legal and institutional framework to prevent and address gender-based violence, ensuring effective protection and support for survivors, access to justice, and accountability for perpetrators. Portugal would like to wish Tanzania a successful review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:23:32]: Thank you. I call on Qatar. Qatar [2:23:35]: Thank you, Vice President. My delegation welcomes that of Tanzania. We commend the detailed report, which reflects a commitment to promoting human rights. We note the adoption of the reforms and the launch of a working plan to 2050 related to the SDGs. We also commend the National Assistive Technology Strategy for Persons with Disabilities on the fourth plan of action to combat corruption recommendations, continue efforts for a national plan of action on human rights, and continue access for quality, equitable education for all children, including disabled children with disabilities. Thank you. Republic of Korea [2:24:41]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The Republic of Korea appreciates the United Republic of Tanzania's commitment to implementing the recommendations of the third cycle of the Universal Period Review, notably through the adoption and implementation of the second National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children. Bearing this in mind, my government would like to recommend the following: one, continuing efforts to ratify the Convention Against Torture; two, strengthening legislative measures and child protection systems and raising awareness to prevent child marriage; three, enhancing efforts to ensure a safe and enabling environment for civil society to exercise their right to freedom of peaceful assembly and of political participation. We look forward to a successful and constructive review of the United Republic of Tanzania. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:25:33]: Thank you. I call on Romania. Romania [2:25:37]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Romania welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and appreciates the submission of its national report. We take note of the legislative and institutional reforms, as well as the sectoral national strategies adopted since the last UPR cycle. We would like to recommend the following: increase cooperation with the Human Rights Council and its mechanisms, including the special procedures; revise the Law of Marriage Act of 1971 to establish the minimum age of marriage at 18 years, with a view to ending child, early, and forced marriages; take measures to ensure freedom of expression, assembly, thus enabling political parties, media, and civil society organization to participate safely in the public life; Romina wishes Tanzania success in this UPR cycle. Thank you, Mr. Vice President. HRC · Vice-President [2:26:30]: Thank you. I call on the Russian Federation. Russian Federation [2:26:37]: Thank you, Vice President. We welcome the delegation of Tanzania and thank it for presenting the report. We note some progress in human rights since the third cycle. We support the consistent efforts to strengthen the national capacities to promote and protect human rights. We note the government's efforts to reduce poverty and develop the socioeconomics sphere. In connection with the ongoing difficulties, Russia recommends: continue to ensure that the legislation in practice protects vulnerable groups, women, children, persons with disabilities, older persons, and ethnic minorities, and two, continue to take measures to improve the situation in the judicial and prison system. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:27:29]: Thank you. I call on Rwanda. Rwanda [2:27:35]: Mr. Vice President, Rwanda welcomes the distinguished delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania. We commend the launch of Tanzania's Vision 2050, advancing inclusive and sustainable development. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Rwanda recommends the following for Tanzania: One, ensure adequate financing and effective implementation of its action plan on albinism, strengthening protection against violence and access to health and education. Two, expand access to clean cooking solutions and community-based initiatives to reduce pollution, address climate change, and protect public health, particularly for women and children. Rwanda wishes the United Republic of Tanzania a successful review. I thank you, Mr. Vice President. HRC · Vice-President [2:28:24]: Thank you. I call on Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia [2:28:31]: Thank you, Vice President. My delegation welcomes the delegation of Tanzania and thanks it for presenting the detailed report, which reflects the efforts made to promote the legislative and institutional framework and the focus on development. including primary health care. We welcome the progress in health, education, social protection, and protection of children, as well as in constructive cooperation. We recommend continuing the implementation of policies and programs on the right to development, too. Consider adopting a plan to implement the recommendations of the UPR. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:29:23]: Thank you. I call on Serbia. Serbia [2:29:27]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We commend Tanzania for its continued commitment and active engagement in the UPR mechanism. We commend the strengthening its policy and its institutional frameworks for gender equality and for its support for recommendations from the previous UPR cycle aimed at combating discrimination and violence against women and girls. We welcome the development of the National Gender and Women Development Policy and the National Women Access to Justice Strategy. In the spirit of constructive dialogue, Serbia recommends that Tanzania strengthen its efforts to eliminate all forms of discrimination against women and girls by ensuring the effective implementation of gender equality policies and strategies in practice, enhancing women's access to justice and their equal rights to land, and allocating adequate resources for gender-responsive planning and budgeting. Serbia wishes the United Republic of Tanzania a successful review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:30:25]: Thank you. I call on Sierra Leone. Sierra Leone [2:30:32]: We say karibu to the Honorable Abdulla Ulega, Minister of Constitutional Affairs, and the delegation from the URT. We offer the following recommendations from the URT’s consideration: consider guaranteeing one year of free pre-primary education, as well as 12 years of free primary and secondary education by law; two, strengthen efforts to prevent and respond to gender-based violence through survivor-centered services and accountability measures; and three, ensure measures to combat gender-based violence and ensure support for survivors is provided. Seylon commends the URT for its ongoing commitments to promoting the right to education. This commitment is evident in its policy of providing one year of complimentary pre-primary education and 13 years of free primary and secondary education. We also welcome the expansion of access to free education and the introduction of two years of free compulsory pre-primary education in Zanzibar. We wish the brotherly Republic of Tanzania a successful review. Asante sana. Vice President, thanks. HRC · Vice-President [2:31:39]: Thank you. I call on Singapore. Singapore [2:31:43]: Mr. Vice President, Singapore warmly welcomes the participation of the United Republic of Tanzania in the fourth cycle of the UPR process. Singapore welcomes Tanzania’s efforts in promoting women’s participation in Parliament and its courts. We also welcome Tanzania’s efforts to prevent and respond to gender-based violence through its Second National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children. Singapore recommends that Tanzania continues to enhance its policies that promote and protect the rights of women. Singapore also welcomes Tanzania’s efforts to enhance its people’s right to health through increased health financing. This has contributed to improving health outcomes, including a decline in maternal mortality rates from 197 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2022 to 104 in 2026. Singapore recommends that Tanzania continues to enhance its efforts to promote the right to health, including by reducing maternal mortality rates. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:32:39]: Thank you. And I call on Slovenia. Slovenia [2:32:44]: Mr. Vice President, Slovenia commends United Republic of Tanzania for its commitment to the UPR process. We welcome steps undertaken by the Government of Tanzania to ensure inclusive and quality education for all children. However, child marriage still remains a significant barrier for girls who become pregnant while in school to continue their education. We recommend to amend the Law of Marriage Act to set the minimum age of marriage to 18 for both boys and girls, and to eliminate child marriage. While we note that Tanzania maintains de facto moratorium on the death penalty, and no executions have been carried out since 1994, we recommend to take steps to abolish the death penalty and to ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the ICCPR. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:33:41]: Thank you. I call on South Africa. South Africa [2:33:45]: Vice President, South Africa welcomes the report of the distinguished delegation of the sisterly country of Tanzania to this UPR session. My delegation commends Tanzania for its efforts to advance HIV prevention among adolescents and young people through the implementation of the National HIV Prevention Roadmap. This, along with the provision of free antiretroviral therapy. And an increase in the number of health facilities providing HIV care and treatment services, has greatly advanced the. Right to health. South Africa wishes to respectfully. Recommend that Tanzania consider the following: adopt the Nelson Mandela Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners; bolster the implementation of the national strategy to ensure stronger protection for persons with albinism from violence, attacks, and abuse, and further strengthening budgeting and institutional mechanisms to ensure effective implementation of the National Plan of Action to End Violence Against Women and Children. South Africa wishes Tanzania a successful review and continued cooperation. Asante sana. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:34:50]: Thank you. I call on Spain Ambassador. Spain · Ambassador [2:34:56]: Thank you, Vice President. Spain welcomes delegation of Tanzania, thanks it for presenting its report and welcomes the responses to the questions as well as the adoption of the National Plan of Action on Violence Against Women, Girls 2027 and the progress made in combating FGM. Spain recommends: one, progress on the legal abolition of the death penalty for all cases and joining the second optional protocol to the ICCPR. Two, protecting freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly through a reform on the law of cybercrime and NGOs. Three, address forced disappearance and prevent and punish transnational repression and arbitrary detention of human rights defenders, journalists, opposition figures, and civil society; 4. decriminalize same-sex consensual relations, protecting LGBTI persons from discrimination and violence. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:35:59]: Thank you. I call on Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka [2:36:04]: Mr. Vice President, Sri Lanka warmly welcomes the delegation of Tanzania. We take positive note of the progress achieved by Tanzania, including the expansion of economic opportunities, improvement of living standards of its people, and the introduction of the National Anti-Trafficking in Persons Action Plan. We also welcome the launch of the National Development Agenda Vision 2050, outlining a human rights approach to development. In a constructive spirit, Sri Lanka recommends that Tanzania: one, further enhance anti-corruption and transparency measures, including continued strengthening of the Prevention and Combating of Corruption Bureau; and two, scale up affirmative action programs to advance the rights of vulnerable groups, including through the expansion of social protection programs. We wish Tanzania a successful UPR. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:37:03]: Thank you. At this time, I understand that the delegation would like to take the floor to make some comments and respond to questions asked up to now. So I will give the floor to the delegation. You have the floor. United Republic of Tanzania [2:37:24]: Yeah, thank you, madam Chair. On behalf of the government of the United Republic of Tanzania, I would like to clarify that Tanzania is home to more than 120 distinct ethnic groups, and it is one of the few African nations that encompasses representatives from all four of the continent's major ethnolinguistic families. Khoisan are the earliest inhabitants represented the hunter-gatherer communities, the Hazabe and the Sandawe people, who are noted for their distinctive click consonant languages. Kushites were the first group to set foot in Tanzania as immigrants, and they migrated from the north thousands of years ago, introducing early food production and livestock keeping. Descendants include groups like the Iraq people of the North Central Highlands. Bantus were the second group to set foot in Tanzania, and they began arriving from West and Central Africa around 2,000 years ago, bringing iron working, advanced agriculture, and new forms of social organization. They formed the overwhelming majority of about 95% of the country's population. Nilotics were the third group and late comers to set foot in Tanzania, and these are the pastoralist groups who migrated south from the Nile River region in later waves up through the 18th century, notably including the Maasai, Datoga, and Barabai. It follows true that, during their southward expansion, the Maasai utilized their highly organized warrior society, the Morans, to secure grazing lands. This expansion led to fierce conflicts, bloodshed battles, and the disruption and displacement of area inhabitants from their land, including the Khoisan, the Cushitic, and Bantu agriculturists. Historically, the Maasai conquered and expanded southward from the Nile Valley through the 17th and 18th centuries, reaching their peak territorial reach in the mid-19th century. At its height, the Maasai land spanned the Great Rift Valley from central Kenya down through large portions of northern and eastern Tanzania, including the Serengeti Plains, the Ngorongoro Highlands, Arusha, and areas stretching toward the coast and southern plains in Manyara, Kilimanjaro, Kosti, Morogoro, and Tanga regions in Tanzania. The history is clear that during the 18th and 19th centuries, the Maasai disrupted and displaced established populations, including Bantu farmers, Cushitic groups, the Irak, and older pastoralist groups like the Datoga. If land rights are determined strictly by who occupied the land first, Groups displaced by the Maasai holds a prior claim, making modern Maasai claims to exclusivity less absolute in Ngorongoro and other areas. The United Republic of Tanzania does not officially recognize nor define indigenous peoples and their ancestral land in its constitution and domestic statutory laws. The government views all citizens as equal nationals, and generally, there is no specific category of indigenous peoples, as all Tanzanians of African descent are indigenous to the country. Tanzania land policy and legislation do not recognize a distinct legal category of ancestral land. The malicious and widespread allegations against Tanzania Spread by few people and groups who have decided to ignore the facts I have just alluded to you today, we wish to tell them that Tanzania is a country guided by the rule of law, respect for human rights, and the fundamental principles of good governance. The government of the United Republic of Tanzania will continue to address the challenges facing its people, bearing in mind their dignity, livelihood, and traditions are protected. In conclusion, The sixth phase government, led by Her Excellency Dr. Samia Sulu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, has continued to enhance efforts to foster socioeconomic development while safeguarding the human rights of its citizens by allowing, among others, freedom of speech, freedom of movement, free and peaceful assembled for political rallies in line with the constitution and the ratified international and regional human rights treaties, we urge you. The Council to adhere to the principles of universality, impartiality, objectivity, and non-selectivity. The United Republic of Tanzania shall continue to promote and protect the human and people's rights of its people, regardless of their status, tribe, ethnic group, descent, tradition, religious, race, or social status. Thank you. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:43:19]: I don't know if any other member of the delegation wishes to take the floor at this time. If not, then we will continue with the list of speakers. And I call on the State of Palestine. State of Palestine [2:43:39]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. The State of Palestine warmly welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and thanks it for its national report. We value the long-standing friendship and solidarity between our two peoples. We commend the progress achieved by Tanzania since its last review, notably its legal aid campaign reaching nearly 8 million people, and the fall in maternal mortality from 197 to 104 deaths per 100,000 live births. We also welcome expanded rural access to water, now above 85%. In the spirit of constructive cooperation, the State of Palestine recommends that the United Republic of Tanzania: first, finalize and adopt its second National Human Rights Action Plan; second, continue expanding fee-free education and inclusive schooling, including for children with albinism. We wish the United Republic of Tanzania a successful review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:44:37]: Thank you, distinguished representative. Sudan has the floor. Sudan [2:44:47]: Thank you. Sudan would like to welcome the high-level delegation of Tanzania, headed by the Minister of Constitutional and Legal Affairs. We commend the multi-party democratic practice, as well as the implementation of sustainable development agenda, including education and health services, lowering the mortality rate among children. We appreciate the progress that has been made in increasing women's participation in leadership roles, as well as the protection of people living with HIV. We would like to recommend to continue national policies and plans in the area of human rights and education; to continue policies in order to promote democratic governance. We wish Tanzania all the best and continued progress. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:45:46]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Sweden has the floor. Sweden [2:45:50]: Vice. President, Sweden acknowledges that Tanzania has taken national measures regarding gender equality and women's and girls' enjoyment of human rights. For example, the reentry framework for pregnant schoolgirls. However, Sweden remains concerned about the human rights violations surrounding the October 2025 elections, restrictions on independent media, and the freedoms of expression, assembly, and association. Sweden would like to make the following recommendations. One, enable future free and fair elections, including by undertaking political and electoral reforms to ensure that political parties, observers, journalists, and civil society organizations can operate freely and safely before, during, and after elections. Publish the findings of inquiries into the violence and human rights violations surrounding the October 2025 elections to ensure accountability. ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearances. We wish Tanzania a productive review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:46:55]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Switzerland has the floor. Switzerland [2:47:02]: Mr. Vice President, Switzerland would like to welcome the delegation of Tanzania and make the following recommendations. 1. To ensure accountability for human rights violations committed during and after the general elections of 2025 through prompt, independent, impartial, and transparent investigations. 2. To guarantee freedom of expression, including online, by amending restrictive provisions of the 2015 Cybercrime Act, including Article 16. and to make it in line with international standards; three, to ensure freedom of association and assembly by reviewing the 2002 Non-Governmental Organization Act and the 1992 Political Parties Act to remove disproportionate restrictions on their activities; four, abolish the death penalty and commute all existing death sentences into fair and proportionate sentences; five, strengthen the protection of indigenous peoples; land rights by preserving their cultural heritage and traditional livelihoods. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:48:07]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Timor-Leste is recognized. Timor-Leste [2:48:12]: Mr. Vice President, Timor-Leste warmly welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and thanks it for its informative report. We commend Tanzania's effort to advance human rights, particularly the inclusion of gender-equitable land rights in its 2023 national land policy. And its progress in promoting and protecting. The rights of older persons through the implementation of the Older Persons Act in Zanzibar and the National Ageing Policy. In a constructive spirit, Timor-Leste recommends that Tanzania: First, consider enshrining the right to education in the Constitution of Zanzibar; and second, strengthen measures to prevent and combat torture. We wish the United Republic of Tanzania a successful review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:49:01]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Togo is recognized. Togo [2:49:07]: Mr. Vice President, my delegation would like to thank the distinguished representatives of the United Republic of Tanzania for their reports, and we take note of the progress made by Tanzania in the protection and promotion of human rights. However, in a constructive spirit, Togo recommends that Tanzania ratify the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhumane or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and its optional protocol; 2, to ratify the Second Optional Protocol to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, aiming at the abolition of the death penalty; 3, to ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. The delegation of Togo wishes every success to the delegation of Tanzania in following up on the recommendations from this review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:49:53]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Tunisia is recognized. Tunisia [2:50:02]: Thank you, Vice President. My delegation would like to welcome the delegation of Tanzania, and we thank them for the presentation of their report. We commend the commitment of the Government of Tanzania to strengthen the legal and institutional framework of the human rights system. We welcome collaboration with international human rights mechanisms. mainly through the approval of the Gender Equality Law, and in ensuring women's access to justice, as well as the National Plan on the Elimination of Violence against Women and Children. We recommend: Pursue efforts to improve health services for mothers and children; Continue efforts to provide adequate housing for all; In conclusion, we wish every success to the delegation of Tanzania in implementing the recommendations. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:50:59]: Distinguished representative of Ukraine has the floor. Ukraine [2:51:03]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Ukraine welcomes the delegation of Tanzania and thanks it for the presentation of national report. We commend Tanzania for expanding access to primary health care and for strengthening inclusive education. At the same time, certain challenges remain to be addressed. In this regard, Ukraine wishes to recommend to Tanzania. Strengthen the independence and capacity of the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance in line with Paris Principle. Advance constitutional reforms and safeguard fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and political participation. Strengthen child protection and intensify efforts to eliminate child marriage. Ukraine wishes Tanzania every success in the review process and in fulfilling its ongoing human rights commitments. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:51:51]: Thank you. The distinguished delegation of the UAE has the floor. United Arab Emirates [2:52:01]: Mr. Vice President, at the outset, we would like to pay tribute to the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania for the efforts that have been made in the area of human rights. In particular, through the National Development Agenda Vision 2050, a plan which highlights combating poverty, improving quality education, health services, and promoting gender equality. Constructively, we would like to recommend to continue the implementation of the National Action Plan for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Children 2024-2028, to strengthen measures to prevent all forms of violence; two, to continue to promote access of persons with disabilities to basic services, including health, education, and social services, thereby improving their full, equal participation in society. We wish the Republic of Tanzania prosperity and progress. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:53:09]: Thank you. The United Kingdom has the floor. United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland [2:53:14]: The UK welcomes Tanzania’s participation in the UPR. We remain deeply concerned by the violence around Tanzania’s October 2025 elections, including the reported excessive force by security forces. And significant loss of life. We regret that the Commission of Inquiry’s report was not published and emphasise the importance of accountability and inclusive reconciliation. We note the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention’s opinion that the detention of opposition leader Tundu Lissu is arbitrary and raises serious fair trial concerns. The UK recommends that Tanzania: 1. Ensures transparent and accountable justice mechanisms to address human rights violations during the 2025 electoral period, including through independent investigations, prosecution of perpetrators, including state actors, and remedies for victims; 2. Ends prolonged pre-trial detention and review the use of non-bailable offences against political opponents, journalists, human rights defenders, and civil society actors; 3. Amends or repeals restrictive provisions on the Political Parties Act, Media Services Act, Cybercrimes Act, and Electronic and Postal Communications Act. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:54:21]: Thank you. The representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela has the floor. Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) [2:54:28]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. We would like to cordially welcome the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and thank them for their presentation. We welcome the progress that has been made in the area of human rights, and we highlight the launch of the Presidential Commission for Criminal Justice Reform and the approval of the National Strategy for Inclusive Education as proof of their commitment to the promotion and protection of the human rights of its people. In this regard, we would like to encourage the State to continue implementing public policies based on their national reality for the promotion, protection and enjoyment of human rights, including the right to development. In view of the above, and constructively, we recommend: 1. To continue the implementation of the National Development Plan called Vision for Development 2050; 2. To strengthen the National assistive technology strategy 2024-2027 in order to benefit for people with disabilities. In conclusion, we wish every success to the United in the UPR. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:55:31]: The delegation of Vietnam has the floor. Viet Nam [2:55:33]: Mr. Vice President, Vietnam thanks the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania for presenting its national report. We commend Tanzania's progress in the promotion of human rights, in various areas, notably the significant reduction in maternal and child mortality, the efforts to expand inclusive education, social protection for vulnerable households, and access to safe water, particularly in rural areas. Vietnam is honored to serve as a member of the Troika for Tanzania's UPR review and will fulfill this responsibility in a constructive spirit. In this connection, Vietnam would like to make two recommendations. First, continue expanding equitable and sustainable access to safe drinking water and sanitation, particularly in rural areas. Second, further strengthen inclusive and quality education, including access to appropriate learning facilities and digital educational access for children. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:56:41]: Thank you. The distinguished representative of Zambia is recognized. Zambia [2:56:47]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Zambia cordially welcomes the distinguished delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and commends the government for its continued efforts to advance socioeconomic development and improve the enjoyment of human rights, particularly through initiatives aimed at expanding access to health care and essential social services. In the spirit of constructive engagement, Zambia recommends that Tanzania, one, continue strengthening access to affordable and quality healthcare, particularly maternal and child healthcare, with special attention to rural and vulnerable populations. Two, intensify measures to eliminate child marriage and gender-based violence, including through strengthened legal safeguards, community awareness, and improved access to protection and justice for victims. Zambia wishes Tanzania a successful review and continued progress in implementing its human rights commitments. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:57:41]: Thank you. The distinguished delegation of Zimbabwe is recognized. Zimbabwe [2:57:46]: Mr. Vice President, Zimbabwe welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania to the review. We commend Tanzania for the ongoing legal and institutional reforms that promote and protect the human rights of its people. We recognize Tanzania's commitment in investigating the circumstances of the unlawful acts of violence associated with the 2025 general elections and ensuring accountability through credible evidence-based processes in accordance with applicable national laws and international rights obligations. In the spirit of dialogue, Zimbabwe recommends the following: one, to ensure strengthening its access to justice reforms aimed at improving justice and reducing delays in justice delivery; and two, to reinforce and strengthen legal framework for sustainable management of natural resources in advancing the right to development, poverty reduction strategy, and economic empowerment of women and vulnerable groups. We wish Tanzania a successful review. I thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:58:47]: Thank you, distinguished representative. El Obeidi is recognized. Albania [2:58:52]: Vice President Obeidi would like to thank the delegation of Tanzania for the presentation of the national report. We recognize the efforts that have been made in recent years, namely the reforms seeking to improve democratic governance, the participation of women in public life. and access to education and social services. However, we remain concerned by information highlighting violations of human rights during and after the October 2005 elections, as well as restriction of fundamental rights. With that in mind, Albania would like to make the following recommendations. to guarantee independent and impartial investigations into alleged violations of human rights related to the 2025 elections; two, to improve the protection of the right of peaceful assembly and association; and three, to improve the violence against domestic violence and child marriage. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [2:59:43]: Thank you, distinguished representative. Pakistan is recognized. Pakistan · Ambassador [2:59:46]: Mr. President, Pakistan welcomes the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania and appreciates its constructive engagement with the Universal Periodic Review process. We commend Tanzania for the adoption of its National Action Plan on the Elimination of Child Labour, reflecting its commitment to protecting children’s rights. Pakistan recommends that Tanzania continue strengthening access to quality health care, particularly maternal and child health care services, in rural and underserved communities. Number two, further community – further enhance measures to protect persons with albinism from violence and discrimination, including through effective implementation of the national strategy on their rights. Pakistan wishes Tanzania continued success in advancing the promotion and protection of human rights. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [3:00:36]: Thank you, distinguished ambassador. Bulgaria is recognized. Bulgaria [3:00:41]: Gracias, Mr. Vice President, dear minister. Bulgaria welcomes the distinguished delegation of Tanzania and thanks for the presentation of its national report. Bulgaria notes the efforts made by Tanzania to implement the recommendations from the previous review period. We welcome measures to promote equality between women and men and to facilitate the return of pregnant girls and young mothers to education. In the spirit of constructive cooperation, Bulgaria would like to offer the following recommendations. accelerate the efforts to provide equitable access to health care, especially in remote and underserved areas, and to socially disadvantaged citizens. Two, consider enacting legislation to make pre-primary education free and compulsory for at least one year and guarantee access to free primary and secondary education. We wish Tanzania a successful review. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [3:01:35]: Thank you, distinguished representative. China, you are recognized. China [3:01:49]: Mr. President, we commend Tanzania for its constructive engagement with UPR. We note that the government has formulated Vision 2050, which incorporates objectives such as poverty reduction, quality education, healthcare, gender equality, clean energy, industrialization, and environmental sustainability, and has promoted the rights of children and people with disabilities, and has made positive efforts and achieved positive results. We have two recommendations. First, continue implementing Vision 2050 and accelerate structural transformation through strategic infrastructure development and productive investment. Second, continue promoting sustainable economic and social development, increasing investment in education and health care. Thank you, sir. Thank you. HRC · Vice-President [3:02:48]: The distinguished delegation of Guyana is recognized. Guyana [3:02:55]: Thank you, Mr. Vice President. Guyana extends a warm welcome to the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania. We note the efforts of the government in enacting several pieces of legislation and policies, which include the National Women Access to Justice Strategy, National Gender Equality Strategy, National Climate Change Response Strategy, and Blue Economy Policy. In a spirit of constructive engagement, Guyana proposes the following recommendations. Collaborate with WHO and other relevant bodies to accelerate equitable access to health care, particularly in underserved areas. Two, collaborate with all relevant bodies and development partners to strengthen response and attention to youth focused HIV intervention. And three, ensure access to menstrual products for all women and girls and family planning support. Guyana extends the best wishes to Tanzania during this process. Thank you, Chair. HRC · Vice-President [3:03:55]: Thank you very much. This has been the last speaker on the list of those wishing to take the floor this afternoon. Now, once again, I would like to give the floor to the delegation of the United Republic of Tanzania so that they can address the comments and observations that have been made and to present concluding observations as well. So the delegation has the floor. United Republic of Tanzania · Ambassador and Permanent Representative [3:04:23]: Thank you, Vice Chair. Before I leave the floor to Honorable Minister to conclude, I wish to make just some few comments. First, we wish to emphasize that respect for the rule of law is a responsibility shared by the state and all actors concerned. Breach of law may lead to legal action, and sometimes including prosecution. Under these circumstances, Taking of such action is, in fact, in compliance with due process and human rights mechanisms. The courts must be allowed to determine guilt or innocence independently through established legal procedures. Regarding concerns about restriction on civic space, we would welcome further discussion on specific legal provisions or measures being questioned and caution against overgeneralization. Overgeneralizations of concerns, risking overlooking significant achievements which have been obtained, or ignoring issues which have long been resolved. Concerning the events of October, 2025, we underscore the importance of respecting Tanzania's sovereignty and allowing the competent national institutions to carry out their responsibilities. These procedures must be conducted in accordance with due process, which we believe are in accordance with the country's, with our laws, in the country's human rights obligations without prejudging the outcome. With respect to the comment by the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom, we respectfully contest the characterization of Mr. Toundou Lissou's arrest as arbitrary and emphasize that his lawfulness must be assessed against applicable legal grounds and procedural safeguards with full respect for due process and presumption of innocence. Dialogue is constructive when sovereignty is respected and judicial processes are not politicized. We also note that mandate holders' recommendations do often overlook important legal matters. Thank you. Now the floor is yours, honorable Minister. United Republic of Tanzania · Minister for Constitutional and Legal Affairs; Head of Delegation [3:06:58]: Mr. President, members of the Council, Excellencies, Distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania and my delegation, we wish to thank all speakers who have contributed towards enriching this dialogue and fourth review of the United Republic of Tanzania. We thank for acknowledging the achievements made, and the majority of recommendations reflect the spirit of the UPR process, which is to constructively advise, encourage and support States in meeting their national, regional and international human rights obligations. We shall duly submit our position on the recommendations issued. I convey sincere appreciation to the Troika comprised of Burundi, Ecuador, and Vietnam, which should be preparing the report of the United Republic of Tanzania, and to the UPR Secretariat for their guidance and constant support in this process. I also thank you, Mr. President, for your stewardship and leadership, and we also appreciate the excellent organization of this session. Indeed, the United Republic of Tanzania has made significant progress in the promotion protection of human rights, and the Government shall continue to work with all actors to overcome challenges in the process. I once again reiterate our commitment to the UPR process as implementation of accepted recommendations leads to the realization of human rights for all Tanzanians. Finally, I I humbly welcome you all to Tanzania to see by yourself and to explore the beauty of our country and our people, the land of Kilimanjaro, the tallest stand-alone mountain in the world, Serengeti, and Zanzibar. Thank you all. HRC · Vice-President [3:09:58]: Thank you very much, Minister. I would like to thank His Excellency and his entire delegation for being here in Geneva for the presentation this afternoon and the participation during this review. The review's report will be drafted by members of the Troika. Burundi, Ecuador and Vietnam are in the troika. In keeping with the procedure we follow here in the Council since 2015, the recommendations section of the report is to be distributed next Tuesday, November 10, at 12:30. I would also like to remind you that according to the statement of the Chair of the Human Rights Council, PR/QR/19/1, adopted on December 8 last year, The recommendation section of all the reports of the working group will be considered for adoption next Friday, November 13th, at the last meeting of this session as of 14:30. The whole report, including the summary section, will be distributed by email Friday, November 20th, 2026. This brings us to the end of this afternoon's meeting. We'll be resuming tomorrow morning at 9:00 to review Antigua and Barbuda. I would like to remind you that the statement length will be one minute, 50 seconds. Those that have signed up and wish to withdraw from the list, please do so online through the event application no later than 30 minutes before the beginning of the review. So, without any further ado and no other business, we adjourn the meeting of this Human Rights Council of the UPR. Thank you.