MARA: THE fallen retired Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General David Musuguri was laid to rest on Monday in a ceremony befitting a national hero –warrior leader, who fought for the liberation of the nation during his lifetime.
The funeral took place at his home town in Butiama, Mara Region, attracting a large crowd that included government officials and top former and current military leaders.
The service adhered to all military protocols, featuring a 17-gun salute to honour the late general.
The casket was carried by eight senior officers holding the rank of lieutenant colonel, arranged with four on each side. At the same time, eight brigadier generals accompanied the body, dressed in black hats and belts as a mark of mourning.
The casket, draped in the national flag, symbolised the nation’s loss of a protector who dedicated his life to its defence.
The official parade entered in formal mourning attire, consisting of two sections, including a mourning group of 16 soldiers and 66 soldiers who participated in the proceedings, also firing 17-gun salutes as a tribute to Gen Musuguri’s legacy, as casket carrying his remains was lowered into the grave.
The late Gen Musuguri’s contributions to the nation were widely recognised during the ceremony, reflecting the deep respect and admiration he earned throughout his service.
The funeral was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Energy, Dr Doto Biteko, Minister for Defence and National Service, Dr Stergomena Tax and retired CDFs including General Robert Mboma, General George Waitara and General Venance Mabeyo.
Representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan, at the burial ceremony, Dr Biteko described the late Gen Musuguri as a unique leader and a mentor to many, who left an indelible mark on the country’s liberation.
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“He has left a great legacy of courage, patriotism and a spirit of selflessness that will live in the nation’s memory. Throughout his life, he dedicated himself wholeheartedly to ensuring that the country remains peaceful, safe and united,” Dr Biteko said.
He added that the late Gen Musuguri faced numerous challenges with great bravery, setting an exemplary model that teaches the importance of unity and the sincere commitment to protect the nation.
Moreover, Dr Biteko urged Tanzanians to recognise the thousands of soldiers who risk their lives for the safety of the citizens.
“Let us continue to honour leaders like him. Mzee Musuguri is one of the fighters who ensured our nation remains secure,” he stressed.
He also called upon Tanzanians to uphold the teachings of Gen Musuguri by ensuring the country remains peaceful, especially during this election period, saying his life should serve as a lesson of dedication for the nation.
“Without peace, there is no development and development is built on a foundation of peace. Therefore, let us all embrace peace for the progress of our nation,” he added.
Dr Biteko also conveyed condolence messages from President Samia, Vice-President Dr Philip Mpango and Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa.
On her part, Dr Tax said that the country will not forget the late Gen Musuguri for his bravery, expertise, patriotism, resilience, hard work and love.
She said that the nation has lost a very important figure, especially within the Tanzania People’s Defence Forces (TPDF). She called on the citizens to continue honouring all that he did and to pray for God to grant him eternal rest.
Describing the life history of Gen Musuguri, Chief of Defence Forces, General Jacob Mkunda noted that the late general dedicated 44 years and 24 days equivalent to 43 per cent of his life to public service through the TPDF.
Gen Musuguri passed away at the age of 104 last Tuesday, while receiving treatment at a hospital in Mwanza.
He was born on January 4, 1920, in Butiama, Mara Region. He joined the military on August 9, 1943 and attended various military courses including the fenders from 1959 to1960 in Nakuru, Kenya.
He was commissioned in February 6, 1962. He then attended the command and staff course from 1975 to 1976 in China.
Musuguri served the force in various ranks. He served as a Chief of Staff in 1972, Brigade Commander in 1974, Commander of the 20th Division in 1978 and CDF from 1980 to 1988. He retired from the force on September 1, 1988.
In recognition of General Musuguri’s contribution and strong leadership, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces conferred him various medals including that of the Kagera war, the 20 years of TPDF, Medal for long service and the distinguished service medal.
Gen Musuguri began his military career in the King’s African Rifles (KAR), beginning as a private where he later served with the KAR in Madagascar.
He later became a sergeant and acted as an instructor at Kahawa Barracks in Nairobi, Kenya. Thereafter, he joined the TPDF.
In 1978, General Musuguri led Tanzanian forces in the war against Idi Amin of Uganda following the invasion of the Kyaka area in Kagera Region
Upon receiving the news of the passing on of the revered retired general Musuguri, last week, President Dr Samia sent heartfelt condolences to CDF, General Jacob Mkunda.
The Head of State, said the fallen Musuguri has left the country with a shining example of public service that will continue to inspire both within and beyond the defence forces.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Chief of Defence Forces, General Jacob John Mkunda, the commanders, retired fighters, active service members, relatives, friends and all Tanzanians on the loss of our hero, beloved teacher, advisor and leader, former Chief of Defence Forces, Retired General David Bugozi Musuguri,” mourned President Samia.
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