Mwinyi honoured for political, economic reforms

Dar es Salaam. Former President Ali Hassan Mwinyi has been honoured for liberalising the economy during his leadership between 1985 and 1995.

The CEO Roundtable Tanzania gave him a Public Service Lifetime Achievement Award of  2013.

 The CEO Roundtable encompasses leaders of private  companies.

It has recognised Mzee Mwinyi’s work in transforming the country’s economy from a socialist to a mixed economy one.

Under his leadership, doors were opened for the involvement of the private sector in setting ventures and driving the economy.

CEO Roundtable chairman Ali Mufuruki said Mr Mwinyi made tough decisions to save the country during his tenure.

 “He made various social and economic reforms, which included transforming the economy from the socialist one. He spearheaded the privatisation of public enterprises and the adoption of multiparty democracy which the country enjoys today, but he hasn’t been thanked for that,” said Mr Mufuruki

In the 1990s, Mr Mwinyi transformed the country from a monolithic party to multiparty — a concept that was  unfamiliar in many African countries.

That needed a determined and  courageous person, said Mr Mufuruki.

“He opened opportunities for all of us. He encouraged the private sector to take part in running the country’s economy.”

He explained that in his leadership he pioneered the media freedom in the country. “It was during his tenure that private media houses in the country were allowed to operate.”

Mzee Mwinyi’s daughter, Salama Mwinyi Mgaya, received the award on his behalf. She said: “We are very much pleased for my father’s recognition for the work he did when he was the president.”