MWANZA: VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Philip Mpango stated on Monday that the late Julius Nyerere (pictured), Tanzania’s first President, laid strong foundations for a resilient nation.
Dr Mpango emphasised that current and future leaders must uphold these foundational principles.
He made this statement while representing President Samia Suluhu Hassan during the Holy Mass Memorial Service for Nyerere, held at St Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Nyakahoja, Mwanza.
Reflecting on Nyerere’s legacy, Dr Mpango highlighted his leadership in securing Tanganyika’s independence and uniting over 120 tribes through the promotion of a common language, Kiswahili.
Nyerere demonstrated his commitment to pan-African solidarity by delaying Tanganyika’s independence to support neighbouring countries in their struggles for freedom.
Under his guidance, Tanzania provided critical resources to liberation movements in Mozambique, Angola, Namibia and South Africa.
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A true Pan-Africanist, Nyerere was instrumental in founding the union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar and was a co-founder of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), which aimed to unite African nations.
He was known as a peace-loving leader, leaving behind a legacy of tranquility and stability.
Dr Mpango also noted Nyerere’s role as a skilled mediator in various African conflicts, including in Burundi.
“He fiercely defended our nation; when Idi Amin attempted to seize part of our territory, Mwalimu led Tanzanians in repelling the invader and supported Ugandans in ousting him completely,” he said.
Nyerere’s commitment to education was pivotal for national development. His government funded education for Tanzanians both locally and abroad, producing experts in fields such as defence, health, economics, water and agriculture.
“Mwalimu was a true patriot who did not seek personal wealth but dedicated his life to addressing the challenges faced by his people. He established and upheld the ethics of public leadership, actively combating corruption in both word and deed,” Dr Mpango remarked.
To instill patriotism and inspire selfless service among the youth, Nyerere founded the National Service (JKT). He was also a diligent environmentalist, establishing and maintaining a natural forest in his hometown of Mwitongo, Butiama.
The Vice President described Nyerere as a staunch advocate for justice who vigorously fought corruption.
The Holy Mass was officiated by Archbishop Renatus Nkwande of the Mwanza Roman Catholic Archdiocese and attended by various dignitaries, including President Samia Suluhu Hassan, as part of the Uhuru Torch light-off celebrations.
Nyerere also promoted a culture of hard work among Tanzanians, particularly encouraging best practices in agriculture through the optimal use of farm inputs.
Earlier, Archbishop Nkwande urged citizens to participate actively in the ongoing registration process for the upcoming local government elections, encouraging not only voting but also contesting for positions, especially women.
He reminded Tanzanians to respect the National Uhuru Torch, recognising its significant contribution to the nation’s development.
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