The government of Tanzania is reported to have engaged a US lobbying firm to manage its international relations following last year’s post election crisis.
The firm Ervin Graves Strategy Group was hired to as a matter of priority manage relations with the Trump administration.
In December, Tanzania issued a request for proposals from lobbyists to help shape its narrative on Capitol Hill and beyond. This followed a widespread criticism of Preside Samia Suluhu Hassan handling of the October 29 elections and its aftermath.
Hundreds of people are said o have been killed or detained by local police in the election that the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) was announced as the winner.
The lobbying by the Ervin Graves Strategy Group is expected to restore Tanzania’s image amid diplomatic challenges. The scope of the work is also expected to include a human rights narrative and an economic strategy.
On December 4th, 2026, the US State Department announced that it was reviewing its relationship with Tanzania. This was based on concerns over religious freedom, free speech, violence against civilians and obstacles to US investment.
The firm appointed by Dodoma to clean up its mess in the global arena is headed by a former Republic Congressman John Thomas Graves.