Mwanza- President Samia Suluhu Hassan today, Monday, October 14, 2024, attended a Holy Mass at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Parish in Nyakahoja, Mwanza, as part of the nationwide commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the passing of the Father of the Nation, Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere.
The day’s events are centered on honoring Nyerere’s legacy, with President Samia also visiting the Youth Week exhibitions at Furahisha Grounds. As well, she will also oversee the grand finale of the 2024 National Uhuru Torch Race and officially launch the book The Philosophy of Uhuru Torch, written by Job Lusinde and edited by Dr. Bashiru Ally.
The Uhuru Torch Race’s closing ceremony will feature a children's parade, cultural and musical performances, recitations, and speeches addressed to the nation. President Samia is expected to present awards and certificates to the winners of the 2024 Uhuru Torch Race competitions before receiving the final report from the race’s leader.
Mwalimu Nyerere, Tanzania’s first President, served from 1961 to 1985, guiding the nation for 24 years. He passed away on October 14, 1999.
Following an inspection of the event preparations yesterday Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa expressed his satisfaction with the arrangements. "I am pleased with the progress made for this important celebration, where President Samia will be the guest of honor, leading us through the day’s activities,” said Majaliwa. He also directed Minister of State Ridhiwan Kikwete to ensure that all remaining logistical details are swiftly finalized in collaboration with the organizing committee.
Kikwete, who provided updates on the event preparations, highlighted a variety of activities planned to honor the nation’s history and culture. According to the minister, President Samia will begin the day with a memorial service for Mwalimu Nyerere at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Parish in Nyakahoja, Mwanza, starting at 7:00 a.m. Following the service, the President is set to visit Youth Week exhibitions at Furahisha Grounds before overseeing the grand finale of the Uhuru Torch Race.
A key highlight of the event will be the launch of the book The Philosophy of Uhuru Torch, authored by Job Lusinde and edited by Dr. Bashiru Ally. The day’s celebrations will also feature a children's parade, musical and cultural performances, recitals, and speeches.
In addition to addressing the nation, President Samia will present awards and certificates to winners of the 2024 Uhuru Torch Race competitions. The event will culminate with the President receiving the official report from the 2024 National Uhuru Torch Race team leader, followed by the formal handover of the National Flag and the symbolic Uhuru Torch to the Chief of Defence Forces, marking the torch's next journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. This year’s Uhuru Torch Race celebrates Tanzania’s unity, peace, and freedom, drawing on the values and legacy of Mwalimu Nyerere.