Why in news?
Tanzania featured in current discussions about African economic partnerships and tourism opportunities. To understand its significance, it is useful to review the country’s geography, history and economy.
Geography
- Location: Tanzania lies on the eastern coast of Africa. It borders Kenya and Uganda to the north, Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, Zambia and Malawi to the southwest and Mozambique to the south. The country also includes the semi‑autonomous islands of Zanzibar, Pemba and Unguja in the Indian Ocean.
- Landscape: The mainland encompasses highlands, savannas and coastal plains. Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 metres, rises in northern Tanzania. The Great Rift Valley traverses the west, containing deep lakes such as Tanganyika and Nyasa (Malawi). Lake Victoria in the north is the continent’s largest freshwater lake.
- Climate: The coast and islands have a tropical climate with two rainy seasons. Inland highlands experience milder temperatures. Rainfall supports grasslands and forests hosting diverse wildlife.
History and society
- Pre‑colonial and colonial eras: Tanzania’s interior hosted early human ancestors; fossils from Olduvai Gorge are among the oldest known. In the late 19th century Germany established control over Tanganyika, while the islands of Zanzibar were governed by Arab sultans and later the British.
- Independence: Tanganyika gained independence from Britain in 1961 and Zanzibar in 1963. In 1964 the two territories united to form the United Republic of Tanzania. Julius Nyerere became its first president and promoted a policy of African socialism known as ujamaa.
- Capital and language: The official capital is Dodoma, though Dar es Salaam remains the largest city and commercial hub. Kiswahili and English are the official languages; many local languages are also spoken.
Economy and culture
- Agriculture: Farming and livestock rearing employ most Tanzanians. Major crops include coffee, cotton, tea and cashews. The fertile volcanic soils of the north support horticulture and maize.
- Mining and natural resources: Tanzania is a leading producer of gold and diamonds. It is also known for tanzanite, a rare blue gemstone found only near Mount Kilimanjaro. Natural gas deposits offshore are being developed.
- Tourism: Visitors flock to Serengeti National Park to witness the annual wildebeest migration. The Ngorongoro crater, Selous Reserve and Zanzibar’s beaches attract wildlife and culture enthusiasts. Tourism is a major source of foreign exchange.
- Currency: The Tanzanian shilling (TZS) is the official currency. Economic reforms in recent decades aim to encourage investment and diversify exports.
Source: WorldData – Tanzania profile