Tanzania’s Vice President Philip Mpango to retire from public service
Looking back on his journey, Dr Mpango expressed a sense of satisfaction, adding that he believes it is the right moment to make way for young and capable leaders.
Tanzania’s Vice President, Dr Philip Mpango, has announced plans to retire after a four-decade-long stint in public service. Dr Mpango announced on Wednesday during the 20th anniversary of Ruaha Catholic University (RUCU) in Iringa, stating that he plans to become a farmer, just like his late father.
“I have decided to retire from public service and go back to farming, which was my father’s lifelong occupation. I have served my country with commitment and integrity—now it’s time to return home and take up the hoe,” he said.
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“I believe my late father would be proud to see me return to the land he so dearly loved. My journey has come full circle.”
Dr Mpango became Tanzania’s Vice President in 2021 after holding top government positions, including Minister of Finance and Planning. He also served as a lecturer at the University of Dar es Salaam before entering public service.
Looking back on his journey, Dr Mpango expressed a sense of satisfaction, adding that he believes it is the right moment to make way for young and capable leaders.
“We have been nurtured and we have served; now it is the turn of the youth. Over 75 per cent of our population is made up of young people. It is time for them to make their mark,” he said.
Referencing the recent retirement of Bishop Tarcisius Ngalalekumtwa of the Catholic Diocese of Iringa, Dr Mpango lauded the clergyman for voluntarily retiring, describing it as a powerful example of humility and servant leadership.
He similarly urged Tanzanian youth to register as voters and elect leaders who are committed to Tanzania’s development agenda and the well-being of all citizens.
“I strongly urge all citizens to safeguard the peace of our motherland during this electoral period,” he said. “Let us vote for visionary and capable leaders who will manage our resources for the benefit of future generations.”
Dr Mpango’s announcement comes as the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) gears up for the 2025 general elections.
The party has already confirmed President Samia Suluhu Hassan and President Hussein Ali Mwinyi as its presidential candidates for Tanzania and Zanzibar, respectively.
On the other hand, the opposition landscape remains divided, with major parties grappling with internal disputes and regulatory hurdles, including disqualification from electoral participation.
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