By Damian Masyenene ,
FORMER Vice President, Dr Philip Mpango, has recalled working with the late President John Pombe Magufuli, including how he curbed excessive foreign travel by some public officials.
Dr. Mpango made the remarks today, March 17, 2026, while giving greetings at the fifth-anniversary commemoration of Magufuli’s death, held at the late president’s residence grounds in Chato District, Geita Region.
Dr. Mpango said when Magufuli saw the long list of planned trips, he cut names from it and, at one point, also reduced the funds allocated for the officials and their aides.
“The money involved was significant, so I couldn’t decide on my own. I sought guidance from my superior, who called me in, reviewed the list, and cut the names starting with the days those leaders were scheduled to travel. He told me, ‘You’ve done well collecting revenue, so don’t spend it carelessly—don’t make that mistake again,’” he said.
He added: "Magufuli was meticulous with public funds and placed his trust in God in all matters."
“He insisted that funds be directed to areas that touch the lives of citizens. Truly, Tanzanians should pray for him so that when he meets God, he may be welcomed in Heaven, because what he did for this nation was tremendous,” he said.
Dr. Mpango said he worked with Magufuli from the time he appointed him as Commissioner of the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), and later as Finance Minister, giving him the critical task of increasing government revenue and planning its use.
“I was fortunate to be one of his close aides. One thing I clearly remember: he told me, ‘This position was given to you by God—do it properly.’ He also told me to make great efforts to collect government revenue. We all remember that under his leadership, we worked hard to."
More on that, one of the most enduring lessons from Magufuli, remembered by all Tanzanians, was to trust in God.
Recalling a time when he suffered from back pain, Dr. Mpango said he told Magufuli, who brought him a book of prayers and arranged for elders from Karagwe to pray for him, also including Mama Janeth Magufuli over the phone.
“I urge my fellow Tanzanians: this is a great lesson. Don’t think you are clever on your own. Trusting God is the greatest wisdom. Mama Janeth, know that the whole nation is with you—we will continue to pray, knowing that one day we will all rejoice with our father, JPM, in God’s Heaven,” Dr. Mpango insisted
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