By Lisa Nyambura
Tanzania is mourning the loss of veteran politician and diplomat Ambassador Juma Mwapachu, who passed away at the age of 82 while receiving treatment at Muhimbili National Hospital.
Born on September 27, 1942, in Mwanza, Mwapachu was a prominent statesman known for his extensive contributions to law, diplomacy, rural development, and private enterprise.
He was a longtime member of Tanzania’s ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), and held several key leadership positions in the country and the East African region.
From 2002 to 2006, Mwapachu served as Tanzania’s Ambassador to France and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO.
In 2006, he was appointed Secretary-General of the East African Community (EAC), where he played a crucial role in advancing regional integration until 2011.
Beyond diplomacy, Mwapachu chaired the Tanzania Railways Corporation, the Confederation of Tanzania Industries, and the East African Business Council.
He also contributed to Tanzania’s Development Vision 2025 and served on several presidential commissions.
A trained lawyer with a degree from the University of Dar es Salaam, Mwapachu held honorary doctorates in Literature and Political Science.
He was also an accomplished author, advocating for Tanzania’s transformation through knowledge and intellectual growth.
Tanzania remembers him as a visionary leader who left an indelible mark on the nation.
