The body of Tanzanian seafarer, Mr. Mchama Maregesi Mongu, who died while working in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has arrived in the country for burial arrangements.
The body arrived on May 18, 2026 at the Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA) in Dar es Salaam, where it was received by government officials, family members, relatives, and friends in a solemn ceremony marked by sorrow and reflection.
Mr. Mongu, who was serving as a seafarer aboard the tug boat VOLANS, died on May 3, 2026 after the vessel was reportedly attacked in the Strait of Hormuz while on a voyage from the United Arab Emirates to Oman.
Speaking after receiving the body, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Corporation (TASAC), Captain Mussa Mandia, expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation through the Tanzania Consulate General in Dubai, as well as all stakeholders who worked together to ensure the successful repatriation of the body.
He said the government, through its diplomatic missions, worked closely with partners to complete all necessary procedures that enabled the return of the deceased to Tanzania, and extended condolences to the bereaved family.
Captain Mandia also called on owners and operators of marine vessels to prioritize the safety of their workers by avoiding sending ships into high-risk maritime areas, stressing that the protection of human life must remain the top priority in the shipping industry.
The Director General of TASAC, Mr. Mohamed Salum, also attended the reception together with the Acting Director of the Middle East Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Mr. Selemani Nyange, and the Secretary General of the Tanzania Seafarers Union (TASU), Captain Josiah Mwakibuja.
After the airport reception, the body was taken to Lugalo Military Hospital in Dar es Salaam for preservation as burial preparations continue.
The family has announced that the burial will take place on May 21, 2026 at Makoko Cemetery in Mwisenge, Musoma, Mara Region.
The incident has been described as a painful loss to the maritime sector and the nation at large, with authorities and stakeholders continuing to extend support to the bereaved family during this difficult time.
