Veteran Tanzanian politician and ex-EAC Secretary-General Juma Mwapachu dies at 82
Throughout his career, Mwapachu made notable contributions in law, banking, rural development, diplomacy, and private enterprise.
Tanzania is mourning the loss of veteran politician and diplomat Ambassador Juma Mwapachu, who passed away at the age of 82.
Mwapachu, a longtime member of Tanzania’s ruling party, Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), died while receiving treatment at Muhimbili National Hospital.
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News of his passing was confirmed on Friday, March 28, 2025, through various media reports.
Born on September 27, 1942, in Mwanza, Mwapachu was a prominent statesman who held several key leadership positions in Tanzania and the East African region.
From 2002 to 2006, he served as Tanzania’s Ambassador to France and the country’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO.
In April 2006, he was appointed Secretary-General of the East African Community (EAC), succeeding Uganda’s Amanya Mushega.
He held the position until 2011, playing a key role in advancing regional integration efforts.
Beyond his diplomatic work, Mwapachu was actively involved in multiple sectors. He chaired the Board of Directors of the Tanzania Railways Corporation, the Confederation of Tanzania Industries, and the East African Business Council.
Additionally, he was a commissioner of the Presidential Parastatal Sector Reform Commission and contributed to Tanzania’s Development Vision 2025 as a member of several presidential commissions.
A trained lawyer, Mwapachu graduated from the University of Dar es Salaam in 1969 with a law degree.
He later pursued a Postgraduate Diploma in International Law, International Institutions, and Diplomacy at the Indian Academy of International Law and Diplomacy in New Delhi, India.
In recognition of his contributions, the University of Dar es Salaam awarded him an Honorary Doctorate in Literature (Doctor of Literature, Honoris Causa) in 2005.
He also held honorary degrees in Literature from the University of Dar es Salaam and in Political Science from the National University of Rwanda.
Mwapachu was also an advocate for knowledge sharing and intellectual growth.
He authored several books and articles on Tanzania’s transformation and development.
In August 2023, he published his autobiography, A Journey, which compiled his major speeches and writings, providing insight into his multifaceted career and personal experiences.
His commitment to mentoring future generations was evident through his leadership in academic institutions.
Mwapachu served as president of the Convocation and vice chairman of the Governing Council at the University of Dar es Salaam, as well as chairman of the Council of the University of Dodoma.
Throughout his career, Mwapachu made notable contributions in law, banking, rural development, diplomacy, and private enterprise.
His leadership and dedication to regional and national development left a lasting impact.
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