Tanzania is a country located in East Africa. It is renowned for its wildlife and natural beauty, with some of the most iconic national parks in the world, such as the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Nevertheless, Tanzania has a complex history and a vibrant culture. In this article, we will explore some of the key aspects of Tanzania’s society, economy, and politics.

Geography and wildlife

Tanzania has a total area of 947,303 square kilometers, making it the 31st largest country in the world. It shares borders with Kenya and Uganda to the north, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west, Zambia to the south, and Malawi, Mozambique, and the Indian Ocean to the east. Tanzania’s topography is characterized by mountains, plains, and lakes, with the highest peak being Mount Kilimanjaro, which stands at 5,895 meters tall.

The country is home to a diverse range of animal species, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, and many more. Tanzania’s national parks are some of the most visited in Africa, with millions of tourists coming every year to watch the annual wildebeest migration in the Serengeti, or to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

History and culture

Tanzania has a complex history that reflects its strategic location at the crossroads of different cultures, religions, and political systems. The earliest human fossils found in Tanzania date back to 2 million years ago, while the first recorded civilization was that of the Kilwa Sultanate, which thrived on the Swahili coast from the 9th to the 16th century.

In the 19th century, Tanzania became a contested territory between several European powers, namely Germany and Britain, who established colonial rule and exploited the country’s natural resources. Tanzania gained independence in 1961, following a peaceful transition led by Julius Nyerere, who became the country’s first president and advocated for socialist policies that aimed at eradicating poverty and promoting education.

Tanzania is home to over 120 ethnic groups, each with its own language, customs, and traditions. Swahili is the official language, spoken by about 90% of the population, along with English and other local languages. Tanzanian culture is characterized by music, dance, art, and storytelling, which are used to transmit moral and social values across generations.

Economy and politics

Tanzania is a low-income country with a GDP per capita of $1,100, according to the World Bank. The economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, which employs about 75% of the population and accounts for 25% of GDP. Other key sectors include mining, tourism, and manufacturing, with opportunities for growth in renewable energy and infrastructure development.

Tanzania is a multiparty democracy with regular elections and a constitution that guarantees civil liberties and human rights. Nevertheless, the country faces challenges of corruption, inequality, and political stability, especially as it prepares for the upcoming presidential elections in 2020. The current president, John Magufuli, has been criticized by opposition groups and civil society for his authoritarian approach and crackdown on dissent.

Conclusion

Tanzania is a fascinating country that offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and political complexity. From its magnificent wildlife to its rich history and diverse society, Tanzania is a country that deserves to be explored and appreciated. Whether you’re a safari enthusiast or a cultural traveler, there’s always something new to discover in Tanzania.

Quest'articolo è stato scritto a titolo esclusivamente informativo e di divulgazione. Per esso non è possibile garantire che sia esente da errori o inesattezze, per cui l’amministratore di questo Sito non assume alcuna responsabilità come indicato nelle note legali pubblicate in Termini e Condizioni
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