Thank you for the opportunity.

Together with my fellow Tanzanians, I clearly explain that as you receive this saddest news with shock, it is the same way we, Tanzanian from abroad, received it with great shock.

All Ambassadors in our communications are united with our fellow Tanzanians together in mourning death of the Third President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Benjamin William Mkapa.

Much has been said about Mkapa, I would like to talk about three issues that I have not heard said or perhaps not said at all.

First, the role of Mkapa on Arbitration between leaders from different political parties.

In 1997, Christmas time, when I was working as Consulate official at the Embassy of the United Republic of Tanzania in Zambia, we all know that Kenneth Kaunda, the First President of Zambia was arrested and  imprisoned at Mkubeko prison located in Kabwe region, Zambia. Nyerere was the one who went and enabled Kenneth Kaunda to get out of prison after discussion with the then President of Zambia, Chiluba. The man behind all of this was Benjamin Mkapa. Mkapa was the one who discussed with Chiluba and asked Nyerere to intervene. He was the one who facilitated the whole issue and Nyerere finalized it.

Second, the role of Mkapa on cost-cutting.

I remember in the first and second leadership of Tanzania, the then Presidents were travelling to regions or abroad with Ministers and Permanent Secretaries on duties. Mkapa removed this tendency and made sure that his delegations were few in number. When traveling abroad, Embassy staff was the one dedicated to assist him. The Presidential plane he was using was never full. I was told that the plane had a capacity to carry 12 people only. In most cases, Mkapa’s delegation was less than 12 people.

Third, the role of Mkapa on improving Security forces.

When he entered power, the condition of our Forces was very bad, poor moral and many troubles. Mkapa made a visit to all forces [JWTZ, JKT, Policies, etc.] and saw the situation. From then, he managed to supply safety and security tools for essential materials and services which made our Forces more active. Thanks to the fourth and fifth Presidents, they improve greatly but the foundation began with Mkapa leadership.

Conclusion,

There are many good things that have been done by Mkapa and, as a human being, we all have shortcoming, but it is very sad to see that during this period of mourning, some Tanzanians are saying bad words and talking about shortcomings. This is not our traditional to offend others at this period of time.

I remember in 2005 when passing his power to Kikwete at the Stadium, he said: “I left a safe country.” Afterwards he said another word that we will remember him. It is true he left a safe country and we are remembering him, and we will remember him so much. Rest in peace Benjamin William Mkapa.