Former President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Thabo Mbeki, arrived in Tanzania today to participate in the 15th Africa Day Lecture, an event jointly organized by the Thabo Mbeki Foundation and the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania.
The lecture will be held on May 24, 2025, at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre in Dar es Salaam.
H.E. Mbeki was warmly welcomed at Julius Nyerere International Airport by the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Cosato David Chumi (MP).
Speaking during the welcoming ceremony, Chumi remarked:“We are deeply honored to welcome President Mbeki to Tanzania. His presence not only reflects the strong historical ties between our nations but also reaffirms our shared commitment to Pan-Africanism and sustainable development across the continent.”he added
The Africa Day Lecture, a flagship initiative of the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, serves as a platform for critical reflection on the continent’s past, present, and future.
This year’s edition will focus on Africa’s development trajectory, regional cooperation, and the continent’s positioning in global governance.
In a brief address upon arrival, Mbeki stated:“Africa Day is not just a commemoration of our liberation, but a call to action. It is a moment to reflect on where we stand as a continent, and how we can chart a path forward rooted in unity, innovation, and self-reliance.”
The lecture is expected to draw a diverse audience, including academics, government officials, former heads of state, youth leaders, and representatives from the private sector.
Among the key sessions will be panel discussions on the Blue Economy and Tourism, academic dialogues with university scholars, and a special forum on South Africa’s potential G20 presidency—and how such leadership can be leveraged for the benefit of Africa.
Highlighting the significance of this regional event, the CEO of the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, Dr. Mpho Tshivhase, noted:“Tanzania holds a special place in Africa’s liberation history and continues to be a beacon of stability and Pan-African values. Hosting this year’s lecture here is both symbolic and strategic as we look to mobilize East Africa’s potential in the broader African renaissance.”he added
Tanzania was selected by the Thabo Mbeki Foundation as this year’s host country for East Africa, recognizing its longstanding role in advocating African unity, economic transformation, and regional leadership.
The Africa Day Lecture continues to serve as a unique platform for thought leadership, intergenerational dialogue, and strategic partnerships aimed at advancing Africa’s progress in the 21st century.