What began as an ordinary day of fishing turned into a moment of extraordinary courage for Jackson Majaliwa, a Tanzanian fisherman whose quick thinking and selfless bravery saved 24 lives after a plane crash.
Majaliwa was near the crash site when the aircraft went down, trapping dozens of passengers inside the wreckage. Without protective gear or formal emergency training, he forced his way into the damaged plane, breaking through parts of the fuselage to reach those inside.
Witnesses say thick smoke, fuel fumes and rising water made the rescue extremely dangerous. Yet Majaliwa repeatedly climbed into the wreckage, pulling passengers to safety one by one, helping them escape before conditions worsened.
“I didn’t think about myself,” Majaliwa later said. “I only saw people who needed help.”
Emergency responders arrived later, but by then Majaliwa had already rescued 24 passengers, many of whom were injured, frightened or unable to move on their own. Survivors credit his actions with preventing what could have been a far deadlier tragedy.
Local residents and first responders described the fisherman’s actions as decisive in the critical early moments when every second mattered.
News of Majaliwa’s heroism quickly spread across Tanzania, drawing praise from citizens and leaders alike. In recognition of his bravery, President Samia Suluhu Hassan personally honored him and announced his appointment to the Fire and Rescue Brigade, turning a civilian hero into a public servant.
The appointment was seen as both a reward and a symbolic gesture, highlighting the importance of courage, service and community responsibility.
Majaliwa was also awarded 1 million Tanzanian shillings (approximately $438) as a token of appreciation for his actions.
For Majaliwa, the recognition marks a dramatic change in his life. Once known simply as a fisherman, he is now celebrated nationwide as a symbol of courage and humanity.
Officials say his story underscores the vital role ordinary citizens can play during emergencies, especially in areas where professional responders may not arrive immediately.
“Jackson Majaliwa represents the best of our nation,” a government official said. “His actions remind us that heroism is not defined by uniforms, but by choices.”
As Majaliwa prepares to begin training with the Fire and Rescue Brigade, many Tanzanians say his story will inspire others to act bravely in moments of crisis.
For the 24 people whose lives he saved, his courage will never be forgotten.
“He didn’t know us,” said one survivor. “But he risked everything for us. To us, he will always be a hero.”
