22 Jul
Commemorating 25 Years Since Mwalimu Julius Nyerere’s Passing and Revived East African Community
A momentous event unfolded at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Kololo, marking the launch of a pilgrimage to Butiama to commemorate 25 years since the passing of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere and the revival of the East African Community (EAC). The press conference, attended by dignitaries, scholars, and youth leaders, highlighted the enduring legacy of Nyerere and his contributions to Pan-Africanism and regional integration.
Dr. Ronex Kisembo, CEO of Afrika Mashariki Fest, and Dr. Nansozi Suzie Muwanga, Executive Director of the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (TheJNLC), welcome HE Maj. Gen. Paul Simuli Kisesa, the High Commissioner of Tanzania to Uganda, as the chief guest.
In his welcome remarks, Dr. Kisembo expressed the significance of the pilgrimage, stating, “This pilgrimage is an initiative of Afrika Mashariki Fest, and we believe that as young people who espouse the legacy and values of Mwalimu and other leaders, it’s important we go visit the ancestral home and the resting ground of Mwalimu in Butiama.”
“Ideally, when we go there, it will be a reflective moment when we are in Butiama. Africa is faced with many challenges as we speak now. We have an integrity crisis across the continent, and we hear of corruption in all corners of the continent. As young people, if we want to emulate the legacy of Mwalimu and his comrades, we need to sit down, and we choose to go to his ancestral home, sit down under the tree, and reflect. Look at the EAC community and why the founding fathers chose to integrate after attaining independence. Why did they choose to unite? To them, integrity was very paramount.”
Prof. Mwambutsya Ndebesa, in his opening remarks, shared personal anecdotes from his time as a student at the University of Dar es Salaam. He recalled Nyerere’s words at the Nkrumah Quadrangle: “Tanzania may have failed in providing economic development, but we have built a nation.” Prof. Ndebesa emphasized that Nyerere’s legacy of nation-building and unity continues to inspire many.
Dr. Nansozi Suzie Muwanga reflected on the importance of the commemoration, noting, “On this commemoration of 25 years since Nyerere passed, it is indeed a time to reflect on the enduring legacy of his servant leadership and Pan-Africanism. These are qualities that the JNLC highly esteems in our active quest to build leadership that can impact the future. I am highly optimistic that our partnership in this year’s celebration, as well as the journey ahead, will encourage more youth to embody the legacy of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere.”
Maj. Gen. Paul Kisesa Simuli delivered an address on Nyerere’s pivotal role in the establishment of the OAU, integrating East Africa, and promoting Kiswahili as a unifying language. He hailed Nyerere as the father not only of the nation but also of the region, underscoring his vision for a united Africa. He also spoke about Nyerere’s enduring impact on the continent and noted how Nyerere was a visionary leader who dedicated his life to serving the people of Tanzania. He believed in the concept of servant leadership that emphasized putting the needs of others first before self. This philosophy was deeply ingrained in Nyerere’s leadership, something for which he is celebrated to this day. Maj. Gen. Paul Kisesa Simuli also underscored that we Africans must strive to emulate Nyerere’s values and principles in our own lives and work together in building a more just, equitable, and united Africa. He called on everyone to enhance their ability to overcome obstacles in their path and build a resilient and robust future based on the values of African unity.
Why Nyerere is Celebrated
Julius Nyerere, fondly known as “Mwalimu” (teacher), is celebrated for his visionary leadership and commitment to Pan-Africanism. He played a crucial role in the liberation struggles of several African nations and championed the cause of African unity. Nyerere’s philosophy of Ujamaa (African socialism) and his efforts in promoting education, social justice, and economic self-reliance have left an indelible mark on the continent. His dedication to the principles of equality and unity continues to inspire generations.
Inspiration for Youth Leaders
For youth leaders, this occasion holds profound significance. It serves as a reminder of the power of visionary leadership and the impact of selfless dedication to the greater good. Nyerere’s life and legacy offer a source of motivation, encouraging young leaders to aspire to values of integrity, service, and commitment to societal transformation. The pilgrimage to Butiama presents an opportunity for reflection, learning, and the cultivation of leadership qualities that can drive positive change in Africa and beyond.
As the press conference concluded, attendees were encouraged to embrace the maiden pilgrimage to Butiama, Tanzania, scheduled for October 14, 2024. Themed “Espousing Mwalimu Julius Nyerere’s Enduring Legacy & Values – Lessons for Mother Africa,” the pilgrimage promises to be a significant event in honoring Nyerere’s legacy and inspiring future generations.
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