Former EAC Secretary General laid to rest as leaders pay tribute

Tanga. Former Chief Justice Chande Othman, on Sunday, March 30, 2025 led mourners in bidding farewell to the former Secretary General of the East African Community (EAC), Ambassador Juma Mwapachu, who was laid to rest in Pande Village, Tanga District.

Addressing the gathering, Mr Othman urged public servants to follow Mwapachu’s example of patriotism and commitment to his country.

Ambassador Mwapachu, who was a visionary in uniting East Africa, was described as a leader whose contributions continue to shape the region. Othman called for the revival of his initiatives, noting that Mwapachu’s legacy remains integral to the future of East African integration.

Deputy Minister for Information, Arts, Culture and Sports, Hamis Mwinjuma, also honoured Mwapachu’s memory, stating that the Government of Tanzania has lost a dedicated servant. "Mr Mwapachu was a hardworking leader who cared deeply for his country. On behalf of the Government of Tanzania, we promise to uphold and continue the work he initiated," said Mwinjuma.

In his tribute, Member of Parliament for Bumbuli, January Makamba, described Mwapachu as a father figure who offered guidance on how best to serve the nation. "Mzee Mwapachu raised and guided me in numerous ways on how to serve our country and government effectively. We have lost a great leader, a true patriot," Makamba said.

The funeral prayer at Mwapachu’s family cemetery was led by Sheikh Mohamed Idd, and several prominent leaders were in attendance, including former ACT Wazalendo party leader Zito Kabwe, the Regional Commissioner for Iringa, Peter Serukamba, the Regional Commissioner for Tanga, Dr Batilda Buriani and several permanent secretaries from various ministries. Staff from the EAC Secretariat also participated in the ceremony.

The Member of Parliament for the East African Legislative Assembly and aide to the President of the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar (SMZ), Dr Abdul Makame, spoke at the farewell ceremony at Mwapachu’s home in Chumbageni, Tanga. He said that although Mwapachu was the third Secretary General of the East African Community, the work carried out during his tenure remains a guiding reference to this day.

"Although Mwapachu was the third Secretary General of the East African Community, the guidelines he left behind are still a key reference for many operational matters within our Community," Dr Makame added.

Mwapachu’s legacy as a leader who dedicated his life to the development and integration of East Africa continues to inspire leaders across the region.