cypriot students — cypriot students — The 14 students from Cyprus who visited Tanzania on a voluntary work trip are expressing distress to their parents after being stranded there due to severe political unrest. Initially scheduled to depart today and return to Cyprus via Dubai, their plans were abruptly thwarted as flights were cancelled and local conditions deteriorated.
The situation in Tanzania has escalated, with reports of military intervention, a curfew in place, and disturbing accounts of violence against civilians during protests. Amidst this turmoil, the students, aged 17 and 18, have been trying to reassure their families, but the circumstances have taken a toll on their spirits. One student conveyed a sense of urgency during a phone call, saying, “We have food for two more days,” while another parent reported their child feeling scared and crying.
Parents, understandably alarmed, have reached out to the President of the Republic, urging him to do everything possible to secure their children’s safe return. They are also actively engaging with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to stay updated on the measures being taken. The Ministry confirmed that they are exploring all avenues for the return of the 14 students, along with two teachers and two chaperones from Greece, amounting to a total of 22 Cypriots in Tanzania.
The spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Theodoros Gotsis, indicated that efforts are being coordinated between the High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus in Nairobi and the Crisis Management Centre in Nicosia. There has been direct communication with the parents of the students, and Gotsis reassured them that there is no immediate security threat, despite the tense situation on the ground.
Moreover, the Ministry is collaborating with the EU delegation in Tanzania to facilitate the safe return of all citizens. In a proactive move, they have provided contact information for Cypriots needing assistance. Citizens in distress can reach out to the High Commission in Kenya or the Consular Affairs Directorate in Cyprus for support.
As the crisis unfolds, the resilience of the students remains a beacon of hope for their families. While the uncertainty looms large, the parents hold on to their faith in the Republic of Cyprus to navigate through this challenging episode and bring their children home safely.
