Minister for Home Affairs Innocent Bashungwa has directed the Immigration Department to intensify nationwide patrols to prevent foreigners with ill motives from disturbing peace as the country prepares for the 2025 General Election.
Speaking during the inauguration of a new Immigration Office building in Busega District, Simiyu Region, on July 11, 2025, the minister stressed the need for round-the-clock vigilance, calling for day and night operations across all regions.
“I want the Immigration Department to step up efforts in ensuring that no foreigner or group of foreigners with malicious intent enters the country to incite or promote unrest during and after the elections,” he said.
Bashungwa also instructed the department to resolve disputes over citizenship status for election candidates with urgency and in accordance with the law.
He emphasized the need for close collaboration with the Independent National Electoral Commission to educate the public on citizenship issues.
The newly inaugurated district office was constructed with funding support from the United States Government through the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
According to Bashungwa, the government under President Samia Suluhu Hassan has allocated Tsh 3.8 billion in the 2025/26 fiscal year to support immigration infrastructure projects, including Tsh 1.5 billion for the construction of a regional immigration office in Simiyu.
He commended the Immigration Department for its ongoing efforts to provide quality services to citizens and foreigners, including effective control of illegal immigration. He also applauded its cooperation with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism in facilitating increased tourist arrivals.
The minister urged Tanzanians to remain law-abiding and report any suspicious individuals or activities that may threaten national peace and security.
Immigration Commissioner General Dr. Anna Makakala said the Busega office construction began on October 28, 2024, and was completed on June 20, 2025. The project cost Tsh 628 million, fully funded by IOM.
Simiyu Regional Commissioner Anamringi Macha noted that the new facility will play a vital role in combating illegal migration, especially due to the district’s proximity to Kenya and Uganda through Lake Victoria.