GEITA: VICE-PRESIDENT Dr Emmanuel Nchimbi is set to be the guest of honour at the commemoration marking five years since the passing of the country’s fifth phase President, the late Dr John Magufuli.
Geita Regional Commissioner Martine Shigela announced the plans on Sunday during a briefing with journalists.
He said the main commemoration will take place today in Chato District, the late president’s home district. Dr Nchimbi arrived in Geita Region yesterday ready for the occasion.
Other national leaders expected to attend include President of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar Dr Hussein Mwinyi, who will arrive today morning, former Vice-President Dr Philip Mpango and former Prime Minister Mr Kassim Majaliwa.
According to Mr Shigela, the commemoration has been organised jointly by the family of the late president and the government.
The programme will begin with a Holy Mass at around 9:00 am at Dr Magufuli’s home in Chato, led by Bishop Severine Niwemugizi of the Catholic Diocese of Rulenge–Ngara.
He added that pre-commemoration activities started yesterday, featuring several community and social initiatives.
These include a marathon that started in the morning and ended at Chato District Hospital, blood donation drives, assistance programmes for inmates at Chato Prison, visits to the late president’s grave and an overnight vigil to honour his memory.
“Regardless of political affiliation, we urge all citizens to participate in large numbers and continue to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr John Magufuli,” Mr Shigela said.
The late Dr Magufuli, who served as Tanzania’s President from 2015 until his sudden passing on March 17th, 2021, was widely recognised for his strict anti-corruption measures, ambitious infrastructure projects and focus on domestic industrialisation.
His tenure saw the construction of major roads, bridges and energy projects aimed at boosting Tanzania’s development. He remains a popular figure for his decisive policies and emphasis on accountability in public service.
The fifth anniversary of his death provides an opportunity for Tanzanians to reflect on his achievements, especially in advancing public infrastructure, education and health services, while remembering his enduring influence on the country’s political and economic landscape.
The commemoration in Chato is expected to draw Tanzanians from across the country, as well as local and international dignitaries, reflecting both the national significance of Dr Magufuli’s legacy and his strong connection to his home region.
Meanwhile, the family of the late Dr Magufuli has called on the public to uphold unity and solidarity as central values in honouring the leader.
The late president’s daughter and Special Seats Youth Member of Parliament for Geita Region, Ms Jesca Magufuli, made the appeal yesterday during charitable activities held at Chato District Hospital.
She said the principles of unity and solidarity are reflected in helping the underprivileged, particularly those struggling with the cost of living, as a way of preserving the legacy of her father.
ALSO READ: YEAR-ENDER: JP Magufuli Bridge opening marks 2025 milestone
“In order to maintain the brotherhood among all Tanzanians, society has a responsibility to support those in need, especially people who cannot afford hospital treatment,” Ms Jesca said.
“Tanzanians are always one family. Our unity will be strengthened by standing with and helping each other during difficult times.”
Ms Jesca also commended the government for its continued efforts to improve health services through the construction of health infrastructure, provision of medical equipment and employment of healthcare workers.
Medical Officer in Charge at Chato District Hospital, Dr Madili Sakumi acknowledged that some patients, particularly those suffering from bloodrelated complications, still struggle to afford treatment.
He praised the late Magufuli for upgrading the facility from a health centre to a district-level hospital and appealed to the government to repair the hospital’s perimeter fence and staff housing, which have deteriorated over time.
Laboratory Services Coordinator and Safe Blood Programme Coordinator at the hospital, Ngolo Ngusa, highlighted a shortage of blood supplies caused by low public participation in blood donation, noting that the hospital largely depends on donations from students.
The commemorative activities in Chato reflect the family’s commitment to preserving the late president’s values through service to the community
No comments :
Post a Comment