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Where is Tanzania; Land of Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar

Tanzania

Where is Tanzania (About Tanzania)

Official Name

United Republic of Tanzania

Capital

Dodoma (Parliament) and Dar es Salaam City (Admin.)

Independence

9 December 1961

Time

GMT +3 hours

Population

36,588,225 (estimated in 2004)

Area size

945,090 m 2 (886,040 km) land including Zanzibar, Mafia and Pemba Islands

Currency

Tanzania Shilling (TSh or TZS)

President

President Jakaya M. Kikwete (2005 to 2015)

Map

click to view it

Tanzania Public Holidays
New Year's Day 1 January; Zanzibar Revolution 12 Jan; Good Friday (varies) April; Karume Day 7 April; Union Day 26 April;
Constitution Day 27 April; Labour Day 1 May; Saba Saba 7 July; Farmers' Day 8 August; Nyerere Day 14 October; Independence Day 9 Dec; Christmas Day 25 Dec; Day of Goodwill 26 Dec; Ramadan (Varies) and Maulidi (Varies)

Tanzania Language
Kiswahili is the official language of Tanzania. It is used in primary education; however, English, as the second official language, is the spoken commercial language as well as the main teaching language at higher education institutions. Tanzania languages include several Kiswahili dialects, but standard spoken Swahili is based on the language of Zanzibar town. Written Swahili is based on the language spoken on the East African coast. Arabic is widely spoken in the coastal areas, particularly in Zanzibar.

Tanzania Culture
Tanzania has harmonious national culture, one that is based on a subtle but strong social code of courtesy and respect. Tanzania culture is a result of African, Arab, European and Indian influences. The African people of Tanzania represent about 120 tribal groups. The largest groups are of Bantu origin, including Sukuma around lake Victoria zone, Gogo central Tanzania, Nyamwezi, Makonde, Haya and Chagga. The Maasai are of Nilotic origin, as are the Arusha and the Samburu.

Tanzania is one of the least urbanised countries in sub-Saharan Africa, but traditional African ideals are being deliberately adapted to modern life. Tanzanians are friendly to foreigners and amongst themselves. Politeness, respect and modesty are also highly valued, so it would be very helpful to learn some Kiswahili greetings before visiting. Take the time to greet people before you ask them for directions.

A handshake is very important in social etiquette. Tanzanians frequently continue holding hands throughout a conversation. Note that the right hand is usually used for eating, while the left is traditionally used for toilet duties. You should try not to pass items to others with your left hand. When receiving items from others do so with both hands or with the right hand while touching the left hand to your right elbow. top




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