Tanzania cherishes Mandela’s legacy by investing in quality education, skills development, and innovation

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Tanzanian government said it will continue carrying forward Mandela’s legacy by investing in quality education, skills development, innovation, entrepreneurship and the effective use of technology to empower young people to play an active role in national development.

The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation responsible for East African Affairs, Charles Ngeleja Kadonya affirmed in Dar es Salaam 4 saying the values and principles championed by the late Nelson Mandela continue to serve as a guiding framework for building a peaceful, united and sustainably developed nation.

He stressed that good leadership is founded on dialogue, reconciliation and mutual respect.

Tanzania has used the 2026 International Nelson Mandela Day celebrations to reaffirm its commitment to promoting peace, national unity, reconciliation and inclusive development, while emphasizing youth empowerment as a key pillar in the implementation of the country’s Development Vision 2050.

Speaking during the commemoration held on July 18, 2026, at the WEEDO Tanzania offices in Dar es Salaam, Kadonya said the government is carrying forward Mandela’s legacy by investing in quality education, skills development, innovation, entrepreneurship and the effective use of technology to empower young people to play an active role in national development. He stressed that good leadership is founded on dialogue, reconciliation and mutual respect.

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Meanwhile, the Acting United Nations Resident Coordinator in Tanzania, Ronald Tran Ba Huy, called on citizens to commemorate Nelson Mandela Day by dedicating 67 minutes to community service, symbolizing the 67 years Mandela devoted to advancing human rights, equality and social welfare.

South Africa’s Ambassador to Tanzania, Noluthando Mayende-Malepe, said the late Nelson Mandela will continue to be remembered for his leadership rooted in tolerance, reconciliation, good governance and peace. She added that cooperation between Tanzania, the United Nations and development partners will continue to advance gender equality and expand opportunities for young people.

International Nelson Mandela Day is observed annually on July 18 to honour Mandela’s contribution to the struggle for human rights, equality and freedom, while encouraging people around the world to engage in volunteer work and acts of compassion aimed at improving the lives of others.