CJ: Late Kipenka was dedicated public servant

SINGIDA: RETIRED Justice of the Court of Appeal of Tanzania, Kipenka Mussa who passed away on November 2, 2024, at Muhimbili National Hospital (Mlonganzila) in Dar es Salaam, was laid to rest in his home village of Kinampanda, Singida Region.

The funeral was led by the Chief Justice of Tanzania, Professor Ibrahim Juma, who, along with judicial staff and Tanzanians from across the country, joined the family and local community for the final farewell.

Justice Kipenka was buried at the family cemetery in Kinampanda, Iramba District.

Among those in attendance at the burial were six Justices of the Court of Appeal, the Principal Judge of the High Court of Tanzania, four High Court judges, the Chief Registrar, the Registrar of the Court of Appeal and other senior judicial officers.

The ceremony was also attended by officials from the Singida Resident Magistrate’s Court, as well as a retired High Court Judge, Fatuma Masengi.

Before his final interment, a special mass was held, led by Bishop Dr Syprian Hilinti, Head of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania, Central Diocese, who prayed for the late Justice Kipenka.

Following the mass, leaders from the judiciary, parliament and the government delivered their messages of condolence.

In his remarks, the CJ Prof Juma, described the late Kipenka as a dedicated public servant who performed his duties with professionalism, integrity and commitment.

He said that Kipenka’s contributions to the nation would not be forgotten, noting that his legacy lives on through the significant decisions he made during his career.

“To fully appreciate his history, we must look at the roles he played and the landmark laws and decisions he was involved in,” said Prof Juma.

“As Clerk of the National Assembly, Kipenka played a key role in passing several important laws, including the East African Charter, the Human Rights and Good Governance Commission Act and the Public Service Act of 2002.”

Prof Juma added that Kipenka’s judicial work, including his decisions as a Court of Appeal Justice, are accessible on the TanzLII website, preserving his legacy for future generations.

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He urged the family, particularly the late Kipenka’s wife and mother, to take comfort in the knowledge that his life and work have left a lasting impact on Tanzania.

Speaking on behalf of the government, the Deputy Minister for Land, Housing and Human Settlement Development, Mr Geofrey Pinda, offered his condolences to the family.

He encouraged them to remain strong during this difficult time, particularly the children, reminding them that Kipenka’s legacy lives on through his family.

Singida Regional Commissioner Ms Halima Dendegu also conveyed her condolences, expressing support for the people of Kinampanda as they mourned the loss of a respected leader. She acknowledged the late Kipenka’s significant contributions to the church, the judiciary and the nation.

“There is no pain greater than losing a child while you are still alive. It is a deep sorrow for a parent when they are left behind. But we accept God’s will and we pray for strength for the family,” she said.

Bishop Hilinti, speaking during the special mass, reminded mourners of the transient nature of material possessions and titles.

“All that we have, including titles and honours, will eventually be left behind, but our actions will follow us,” he said. “Let us live in a way that prepares us for the Kingdom of God.”