Dodoma. Vice President, Dr Philip Mpango, has underscored the enduring legacy of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, describing the Father of the Nation as a steadfast advocate of peace, unity and human equality, whose ideals remain foundational to Tanzania’s development trajectory.
Speaking during a symposium to mark 103 years since the birth of Mwalimu Nyerere, held at the Jakaya Kikwete Convention Centre in Dodoma, on April 13, Dr Mpango said the late leader believed firmly in building a classless and self-reliant society grounded in reconciliation and national cohesion.
He noted that the late Nyerere’s guiding principles continue to inspire President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership, particularly through her R4 philosophy—an approach focused on rebuilding, reforming, fostering reconciliation and reinforcing resilience.
According to Dr Mpango, this philosophy has enhanced national unity, strengthened governance systems and expanded citizens’ freedoms, including in political and religious spheres.
Dr Mpango further hailed the role of the Founding Father in establishing the Union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar, alongside the late Sheikh Abeid Amani Karume, saying President Samia had safeguarded this legacy by addressing 15 key Union-related concerns during her first four years in office.
“Mwalimu Nyerere believed in the power of dialogue and consensus,” the Vice President said.
“And this spirit has guided efforts to preserve the Union and resolve its challenges peacefully.”
Dr Mpango added that Nyerere’s early investment in infrastructure signalled his foresight in laying the groundwork for economic transformation.
He said President Samia had carried forward that legacy through strategic projects under the Kazi Iendelee mantra, including major initiatives in transport, health, education and energy.
Highlighting key achievements, Dr Mpango cited the Julius Nyerere Hydropower Project, the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), port and airport upgrades, ship construction, rural and trunk road development, and the expansion of healthcare and education infrastructure across the country.
He also commended the President for advancing gender inclusivity by appointing women to senior government roles, echoing Nyerere’s emphasis on women’s participation in leadership since independence.
“Active citizen participation in elections strengthens democracy and ensures leaders are held accountable,” he said, while calling upon young people to study Nyerere’s writings to grasp the breadth of his philosophical and developmental contributions.
Speaking at the same event, Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Foundation Chairman. Paul Kimiti. urged the government to strengthen the institution so it may continue preserving the late leader’s legacy and promoting unity and peace, especially during elections.
Meanwhile, the deputy minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dunstan Kitandula, revealed that a plot in Dodoma’s Mtumba area has been secured for the construction of a Presidential Museum, which will include a gallery on Mwalimu Nyerere’s national and international contributions.
He also announced that the Kongwa area had been declared a national heritage site in honour of its role in southern Africa’s liberation struggles.
His ministry, he added, will collaborate with stakeholders to promote other former liberation fighter camps as sites of historical significance.
