Dar es Salaam. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has sent a message of condolence to Catholic faithful in Tanzania and around the world following the death of the head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis, who died on Monday at the age of 88.
In a statement issued through her official X (formerly Twitter) account on April 21, 2025, President Samia said she was deeply saddened by the passing of the pontiff, describing him as a teacher and leader who devoted his life to promoting human development and global peace.
“I am saddened by the news of the passing of the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis. During his 12 years as the head of the Church, he lived as a teacher and leader who championed human progress and the preservation of peace,” she wrote.
She added; “On behalf of the government and citizens of the United Republic of Tanzania, I send heartfelt condolences to all Catholic faithful in the country and around the world. May Almighty God rest his soul in eternal peace.”
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1936, was elected the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church in March 2013.
He made history as the first pope from the Americas, the first Jesuit to ascend to the papacy, and the first non-European pope in over 1,000 years.
His tenure was marked by a strong commitment to social justice, environmental protection, and outreach to the poor and marginalised.
He also championed interfaith dialogue and modernised various aspects of the Church’s teachings and practices.
In February 2024, President Samia paid a historic visit to the Vatican where she met Pope Francis—becoming the first Tanzanian head of state to visit the Holy See in over 15 years.
Their meeting focused on the Church’s contributions in Tanzania, particularly in the areas of education, health, and social development.
The Catholic Church commands a large following in Tanzania, with approximately 12 million adherents according to various unofficial estimates.
It plays a major role in delivering essential services, operating hundreds of schools and hospitals across the country.
Global tributes have continued to pour in, with world leaders praising Pope Francis’s humility, compassion, and tireless advocacy for peace and inclusivity.
Funeral preparations are underway, with the Vatican expected to announce official arrangements in due course.
