Kimiti calls on Tanzanians to uphold Nyerere’s legacy of peace, unity

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Chairperson of the Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Memorial Institute and former Cabinet Minister, Paul Kimiti has called on Tanzanians to continue honouring the legacy of the Father of the Nation, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, by safeguarding the pillars of peace, unity and patriotism.

In an exclusive interview with the ‘Daily News Digital’, Mr Kimiti said that Tanzania’s long-standing stability depends on the commitment of its people, especially the youth, to uphold the values Nyerere championed.

“Tanzania belongs to this generation. Our young people must understand that they have a duty to love, protect and develop their country. That’s what Mwalimu stood for,” he said.

Mr Kimiti stressed the importance of responsible civic participation, especially in a democratic society.

“Our citizens must understand their responsibilities when it comes to national policies. Even when you disagree, the answer is not to cause unrest. Mwalimu Nyerere taught us that change comes through the ballot, not through chaos,” he said.

“Democracy means respecting the majority’s decision. Disagreements are natural, but violence solves nothing,” he added.

Mr Kimiti noted that dialogue, unity and nonviolence were foundational principles laid by Mwalimu Nyerere, principles that have kept Tanzania a beacon of peace in Africa for over half a century.

“No nation succeeds through violence. Once we stop valuing peace, we begin to destroy ourselves. Many countries lost their stability because they abandoned the values Nyerere upheld,” he warned.

His remarks come as Tanzania marks 26 years since the passing of Mwalimu Nyerere, who died on October 14, 1999.

Throughout the years, Tanzanians continue to honour his immense contributions to building a nation rooted in unity, equality and self-reliance.

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Mwalimu Nyerere, through his policy of Ujamaa and Self-Reliance, encouraged Tanzanians to work together in building a strong and independent economy, driven by shared values and national solidarity.

“He was a leader of integrity, morality and unwavering love for his country,” Kimiti said.

The Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Foundation, Kimiti noted, is committed to continuing its work of educating young people about Nyerere’s vision, values and philosophies to inspire patriotism and respect for democracy in future generations.

“Mwalimu gave us a clear path. It’s now up to us to walk it. Peace must be protected through action, not just words,” Mr Kimiti said.

“The youth are the future. If they lose direction, the whole nation suffers.”

He concluded with a powerful reminder of Nyerere’s belief: “As Mwalimu once said: ‘Peace does not come by chance, it is the result of justice and mutual respect.’ That remains true today.”