Tanzania, East Africa
Location
Tanzania lies on the coast of East Africa and shares borders with 8 other African countries. Its world famous parks and attractions include Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, and Mt. Kilimanjaro. Zanzibar, the Spice Island, combines both ancient ruins and beautiful beaches.
Population Profile
Tanzania's population is approximately 45 million and includes over 120 tribes. TZ is split into almost equal thirds among Christians, Muslims, and those with indigenous beliefs. The ethnic profile is 99% African and the remaining 1% European, Arab, and Asian.
Economy
Tanzania ranks 187th out of 194 countries in purchasing power, according to the IMF. Tourism represents 68% of the economy, along with small locally owned agriculture and transportation services. 1 in 5 girls have no education at all, despite the fact that 1 extra year of secondary school will boost earning potential by 15-25%. Females reinvest 90% of income into family (education, healthcare, family business), compared to 30% of male reinvestment. The economy grows by 3% overall if only 10% more girls go to school!
Daily Life
75% of the population has contracted malaria, 60% HIV. The rate of HIV infection is 5.6%, with malaria as a co-morbid factor. 73% of Tanzanians live in rural environments on less than $1USD per day, without access to clean water, basic sanitation, healthcare, or markets. The poorest of the poor tend to be women, who by custom, are afforded few rights (to be educated, to work for income, to own property) yet carry the most responsibility for the family welfare.
Politics
The United Republic of Tanzania was formed out of the former colonies, Tanganyika and Zanzibar. Tanganyika became sovereign in 1961 and Zanzibar in 1963. President Julius Nyerere united the country in 1964 under a single language, kiswahili, and vision. Since independence, Tanzania is unique in Africa for never having had any conflicts. Tanzania has a 1 party government system, not a recognized democracy, consisting of a federal ruling party President based on mainland Tanzania and a semi-autonomous President in Zanzibar.