July 24, 2020

Former Tanzanian President Benjamin William Mkapa dies

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ZTN Correspondent

TANZANIA’s former President Benjamin William Mkapa has died at the age of 81.

The country’s President John Magufuli announced Mkapa’s death on Tanzania Broadcasting Corporation (TBC) this morning.

President Magufuli said Mr Mkapa died at Dar es Salaam Hospital where he was admitted.

“I call on all Tanzanians to receive the news of his death and to pray for Mzee Mkapa. More information will be released but Mzee Mkapa is no more,” he said in a brief television statement.

President Magufuli also declared a seven-day mourning period. During this time, all flags in the country will be flown at half-mast.

Mr Mkapa led Tanzania from 1995 to 2005 before handing over to Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete.

The former president is known for leading several peace mediation efforts in the region, including taking part in Kenya’s post-election reconciliation exercise in 2008.

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