Scores pay tribute to Sarungi legacy of service excellence

DAR ES SALAAM: A REVERED surgeon, medical educator and former cabinet minister, Professor Philemon Sarungi was laid to rest yesterday at Kinondoni Cemetery in Dar es Salaam, leaving behind a profound and enduring legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.

At the age of 89, Sarungi passed away after a lifetime of exceptional service to his country, people and profession.

His burial drew leaders from various sectors who gathered to honour his remarkable contributions to the nation. Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner, Mr Albert Chalamila, who spoke on behalf of ruling party CCM Secretary-General, Ambassador Emmanuel Nchimbi, described Prof Sarungi as a dedicated public servant, who consistently prioritised the national interest in every ministry he served.

Mr Chalamila reflected on the late Sarungi’s widereaching influence, particularly in the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Education and most significantly, the Ministry of Health, where his expertise and commitment made an indelible impact.

“Despite his initial field being medicine, Prof Sarungi excelled in all his roles, demonstrating that his skills extended far beyond the theatre room,” he said. Political leaders also took the opportunity to pay tribute.

Minister of State, Prime Minister’s Office (Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disability) Mr Ridhiwani Kikwete, urged all to remember Sarungi for his positive actions and the transformative impact he had on the healthcare sector.

“Let us honour the late Prof Sarungi for the good deeds he performed and the lasting legacy he leaves behind,” Ridhiwani said.

Former Prime Minister Joseph Warioba shared fond memories of Prof Sarungi, recalling his arrival in Dar es Salaam and the admiration he quickly earned from the youth, who recognised his distinguished qualifications and dedication to medicine.

Warioba further praised Sarungi’s humility, noting that despite his many accolades and leadership roles, he remained approachable and unpretentious even after his retirement.

For Tundu Lissu, National Chairman of Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA), Sarungi’s contributions to Tanzania were a beacon of knowledge and service.

“We must pray for his soul to rest in peace, for he has completed the work he was called to do on this earth. We have much to learn from him,” Mr Lissu said.

Former Vice-Chairman of CCM (Mainland), Abdulrahman Kinana said, “Prof Sarungi may have left us, but his actions will live on as lessons for all generations.”

Former Minister for Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development, Professor Anna Tibaijuka, recalled a personal encounter when Sarungi’s skillful diagnosis and compassionate care saved her life during a critical illness.

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She also praised his steadfast dedication to promoting women’s rights, particularly his role in securing significant reforms in the education sector.

The Chairman of the Mwalimu Nyerere Foundation (MNF) Board of Trustees, Mr Joseph Butiku, also lauded Sarungi’s love for his country, his sense of humour and his commitment to truth.

“Sarungi’s commitment to his roots was clear and he even authored a book about his tribe, demonstrating his deep appreciation for his heritage,” Mr Butiku explained.

Musoma Rural Member of Parliament, Professor Sospeter Muhongo, recalled how Sarungi had been both a teacher and close friend, deeply influencing his political career and achievements.

“We must preserve Sarungi’s legacy, especially within the medical community, where his influence was immense,” Prof Muhongo said.

He also noted the importance of ensuring that Sarungi’s name lives on at the Muhimbili Orthopaedic Institute (MOI), where he was a founder.

Executive Director of MOI, Dr Mpoki Ulisubisya, reflected on the profound impact Sarungi had on the institute.

He recalled how the institute, which started with fewer than 20 beds, now boasts 366 beds.

“We will continue to honour his vision and bravery,” Dr Ulisubisya affirmed.

On his side, Professor Laurence Museru, representing Sarungi’s former students, spoke passionately about how the professor’s teachings went beyond textbooks.

“Professor Sarungi was a practical teacher who instilled in us the importance of commitment, courage in the face of challenges and deep care for our patients,” Prof Museru said.

Dr Robert Mhina, representing the Tanzania Orthopaedic Association (TOA), fondly remembered Sarungi’s passion for the profession, which led to the creation of the association.

“His legacy lives on through TOA, and his contributions to orthopaedic surgery will continue to inspire future generations of doctors,” Dr Mhina said.

President of the Medical Doctors Association of Tanzania, Dr Alex Msoka, hailed Sarungi’s leadership skills and noted that his work laid the foundation for many of the organisation’s current achievements.

“Prof Sarungi was not just a leader; he was a teacher and a mentor,” Dr Msoka said. Prof Sarungi’s vision, compassion and unwavering dedication to service have left a lasting imprint on the nation.

As Tanzania mourns his loss, the lessons he imparted will continue to resonate for years to come. While the country has lost one of its finest sons, his wisdom, integrity and legacy will never be forgotten.