Residents in Dar es Salaam are calling on young people to refrain from emotional decision-making and avoid being drawn into actions that threaten national peace, warning that the economic consequences of the October 29 unrest are already being felt across several regions.
The disturbances, which affected Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, Arusha, Songwe, and Mbeya, resulted in temporary closures of markets, transport routes, and key trading points.
In Dar es Salaam’s Kariakoo market, one of the country’s largest commercial hubs, business operations were halted for several days, leading to reduced supply of essential goods and a noticeable rise in prices.
Traders report that some commodities experienced price spikes within days.
A single tomato that previously sold for Sh100 is now being sold for around Sh1,000, while the price of a kilogram of rice has risen from an average of Sh2,500 to Sh4,000.
Similar increases have been observed in cooking oil, maize flour, and vegetables—items that form the core of daily consumption for most households.
Local trader Rahim Hassan Bakari described the unrest as driven largely by “mihemko,” or impulsive emotional reactions, rather than clear political or economic demands.
According to him, many young people who joined the demonstrations may not fully understand the broader impact their participation has on livelihoods, particularly those of small business owners and wage earners who depend on daily trade.
He emphasized the need for grievances to be addressed through structured civic engagement and official channels rather than disruptive protests that burden ordinary citizens.
In Mbagala, resident Faizat Peter shared similar concerns, explaining that the disruptions affected household budgets, community welfare, and workplace routines. She noted that families with limited income were forced to adjust meals and spending plans as prices climbed and supplies became uncertain.
Her appeal echoed a broader message emerging from affected communities: that peace is a shared responsibility that requires reflection, patience, and national unity.
Analysts warn that recurring episodes of unrest may erode economic confidence, discourage investment, and slow down development progress.
Tanzania’s economic stability relies heavily on the continuity of market operations and the predictability of social order.
When these are disrupted, the effects ripple through transport, food systems, informal trade, and family welfare.
As calm returns to affected regions, residents hope that the experience will encourage more constructive dialogue, stronger civic awareness among youth, and a renewed commitment to safeguarding peace as a national asset.