‘Uphold peace, patriotism’
MBEYA: VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Philip Mpango has called on Tanzanians to honour the legacy of the nation’s founding father, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, by protecting the country’s independence, fostering peace, unity, patriotism and working hard to build a prosperous nation.
Speaking yesterday at a national event marking the 26th death anniversary of Mwalimu Nyerere held at the Sokoine Memorial Stadium in Mbeya Region, Dr Mpango stressed that Tanzania’s progress depends on citizens embracing the values and principles laid down by the Father of the Nation.
“We must continue to protect our sovereignty, uphold unity and peace and ensure justice for all. If we fail to do this deliberately, our nation’s future is at risk,” he warned.
The event also marked the national climax of the Uhuru Torch Race 2025 and National Youth Week. Dr Mpango urged citizens to uphold good moral conduct and instil strong values in the youth, who are both the present and future leaders of the nation.
He stressed the need to reject corruption and bribery, citing Nyerere’s strong stance against such vices.
“Tanzania will be built by Tanzanians themselves. Everyone has a role to play by working hard and seizing emerging opportunities in agriculture, business, ICT, sports and the arts,” he said.
He also called for greater environmental conservation, including protection of water sources, tree planting and maintaining cleanliness.
Reflecting on Nyerere’s legacy, Dr Mpango highlighted his leadership in gaining independence, promoting education and advocating for national unity by erasing tribalism and promoting Kiswahili as a national language.
“He laid the foundation for free basic education, human rights, the rule of law and democratic governance. He even led by example by voluntarily stepping down to allow peaceful transition of power to Ali Hassan Mwinyi,” Dr Mpango noted.
He also hailed Nyerere’s Pan-Africanist efforts in supporting liberation struggles across southern Africa and championing the formation of the United Republic of Tanzania alongside Zanzibar’s founding leader Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume.
On the Uhuru Torch, Dr Mpango said it symbolises love, unity and hope, values first ignited by Nyerere when the torch was lit atop Mount Kilimanjaro to show the meaning of freedom to the world.
“The Uhuru Torch has helped eliminate discrimination and tribalism, while promoting unity, accountability and development,” he said.
Regarding National Youth Week, he reiterated the government’s commitment to investing in education, technology and sports, empowering youth who make up over 77 per cent of Tanzania’s population.
Dr Mpango also conveyed President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s message urging all eligible voters to participate peacefully in the upcoming October 29th General Election.
Earlier, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa thanked Dr Mpango for attending the commemoration, saying it reflected his deep respect for the values Nyerere stood for.
“The Uhuru Torch and this commemoration bring Tanzanians together to reflect on the values of love, unity and dignity that Mwalimu embodied,” said Majaliwa.
He added that the sixth-phase government under President Samia remains committed to improving the economy, strengthening unity and maintaining Tanzania’s reputation as a politically stable nation.
