TANU founder, independence hero Songambele dies at 100
DAR ES SALAAM: VETERAN politician and one of the architects of Tanganyika’s independence, Alhaj Mustafa Mohamed Songambele, has died at the age of 100 in Dar es Salaam.
The news of his passing was confirmed by his daughter, Dorah Songambele, who said preparations were underway to transport his body to Songea, Ruvuma Region, for burial.
A wake is currently being held at the late Songambele’s residence in Mwananyamala, Dar es Salaam.
His death comes just days after celebrating his 100th birthday on Sunday, May 25, 2025, surrounded by close family and friends.
Alhaj Songambele was a founding member of the Tanganyika African National Union (TANU), a key political party in the country’s liberation movement and later Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM).
He held TANU membership card number 27, placing him among the original 30 founders who stood beside Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere in the struggle for independence.
In recognition of his unwavering commitment to the nation, Mwalimu Nyerere appointed him as the country’s first District Commissioner, serving the then Pwani District—today known as Ilala.
He later rose to become the Dar es Salaam Regional Commissioner, overseeing one of Tanzania’s most politically and economically vital regions.
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He was also among the first residents of Dar es Salaam to welcome Nyerere after he left his teaching post to lead the independence movement.
Songambele played a critical role in helping the future Father of the Nation secure a plot of land in Magomeni Mikumi, where Nyerere’s historic home—now preserved as a national museum—was built.
Born on May 25, 1925, in Ruvuma Region, Songambele spent much of his adult life in Dar es Salaam, where he became an influential figure in both government and CCM.
He notably served as the TANU Regional Secretary for Dar es Salaam during a transformative era in Tanzania’s history.
In addition to his political legacy, Songambele was remembered for his wit and warmth. One popular story tells of a moment when he made Nyerere laugh so uproariously that the President fell to the ground.
When questioned by guards, Songambele’s humorous explanation led to laughter all around, averting what could have been a serious misunderstanding.
Later in life, he established Chandamali General Supplies Company Limited, a construction firm registered in 2002 under the Contractors Registration Board (CRB).
As funeral arrangements proceed in Songea, tributes continue to pour in for a man celebrated as a pillar of Tanzanian nationhood, remembered for his devotion, humour and historic contributions.
