After years of repressive tribal policies and in-direct German and British rule, Tanzania shed its Colonial heritage and became independent in 1961 under the leadership of the Tanganyika African National Union (TANU). Julius Kambaraga Nyerere adopted a politically fragile country, plagued by corruption, unemployment and lack of adequate heath and educational structures. Due to these hurdles, TANU opted for a policy of Socialism and self-reliance. His Arusha Declaration called for a uniform language, a common and unified party, one common economic policy, and the abolishment of tribal divisions. His vision, while economically devastating, may well have saved Tanzania from the political instability that has ravaged the region. Today the United Republic of Tanzania enjoys free markets, and a budding economy, and a stable government under President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete.
Culture
A cultural wonderland
Tanzanian’s Social fabric charm is the prime attraction for cultural and eco-tourism. The culture of Tanzania is so diverse from region to region, and incorporates so many diverse influences, that a lifetime would not be enough to garner even a perfunctory familiarity with the culture. The folklore, “ngomas” and dance styles vary from region to region and tribe to tribe. While the Sukuma use live snakes in their dances, the Maasai warriors are famous for their leaping dance.Each of the over 120 tribes has its own and unique traditional ngoma and dancing style. The same can be said for dress customs, as the Maasai men drape toga-like Maasai blankets about them, while the Makonde people indulge in filing their teeth and tattooing their faces and bodies. In the coastal regions the paintings of hands, feet lips and nails with henna is the custom. From diverse foods, dress, dances and songs, Tanzania is a cultural wonderland.
