Religious leaders in Dar es Salaam marked the International Day of Peace on Saturday with joint prayers for Tanzania, urging citizens to safeguard unity as the nation heads toward the general elections.
The event, held at Mzani Mmoja (Mashujaa wa Uhuru grounds), brought together clerics from different faiths under the theme “Our Peace, Our Pride. It Is Ours.”
Sheikh Walid Omari Kawambwa, Chairperson of the Peace Committee, said peace is the foundation of national stability.
“Without peace, no activity can thrive whether religious, political, or social. Peace is the backbone of development and harmony,” he said.
He cautioned against attempts by individuals seeking to disrupt the country’s unity.
“As religious leaders sheikhs and bishops we are united in declaring that we will not allow our nation to descend into chaos. We turn to God in prayer and call on those with harmful intentions to abandon their plans,” he added.
Pastor Paul Bendera, who also addressed the gathering, urged Tanzanians not to be swayed by divisive voices.
“We should not risk losing the peace we enjoy. As religious leaders, we do not wish to see conflict between government, leaders, and citizens. Tanzania is a peaceful country, and it is our shared responsibility to preserve that peace,” he said.
The gathering underscored the role of faith leaders in promoting harmony and sent a unifying message to Tanzanians to protect the country’s long-standing reputation as a beacon of peace.