Tanzania: evolving into a xenophobic society
Written byNdesanjo Macha
Ujamaa argues that Tanzania is evolving into a xenophobic society: “Whether it is the Begging Somali, the Grieving Burundian, The enterprising Kenyan or the shameless Muhindi, Tanzania has slowly but surely evolved into xenophobic society. If there is one aspect of our social development and growth that I could influence, I would choose this one; for it is my firm belief that a nation is built on humans and not nationals.”
Written byNdesanjo Macha
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The point on xenophobia is very true but I was highly perturbed a few days ago. Let me explain. I was at the Maasai Camp in Arusha a few nights ago and was seriously angered by what I deemed an act of gross racism.
I was with my white friend and we decided to go to a “nice” pub for a few drinks. We decided on Maasai Camp and when we got there I headed straight to the bar at the far end of the establishment to order two pints as my mate looked for seating.
Standing at the bar next to me when I got there was an Asian man. The bar tender cordially greeted him and took his order. Soon after he returned with the mans drinks. I reached out with my cash to give it the bartender but he arrogantly ignored me and instead served another white man who had clearly come after me.
Perplex I brushed it aside assuming the man must be a regular at the bar. Not long after the bartender returned with the second man’s drinks. By this time my white friend was growing impatient and had joined me at the bar where he stood behind me.
Once again as if in scripted fashion the bartender came towards my general direction. This time I was certain I was going to get some service. Brazenly however, he took the extra effort to reach out to my white friend (who by the way was standing BEHIND me) and ask to take his order.
At this point we were both so disgusted that we walked out without a word.
Xenophobia is worse now than it was years ago. It all boils down to what is considered acceptable in society. Law and Order is non-existent (notice I did not say virtually) so the country has turned into a banana republic. Off course the law only applies to foreigners, who are viewed as money making schemes. It is extremely surprising that anyone can decide to extort money from foreigners and will, by default, get the support of the Police and even members of the judiciary who will all be in on the deal. Unfortunately this culture of extortion (kuchakachua na kupanga jamaa) will eventually be detrimental to the growth of the country. And then other countries are expected to lend a helping hand just to have the hand chopped off.