The Government has called for the preservation of the Franciscan legacy in Tanzania, saying the religious family’s contribution to education, healthcare and community development forms an important part of the country’s social history.
Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Ngwaru Maghembe made the call on Friday during the launch of a book documenting the history and contribution of the Franciscans in Tanzania.
The book, Saint Francis of Assisi in Tanzania: A Living Presence – Mtakatifu Fransisko wa Asizi: Uwepo Ulio Hai Tanzania, was launched at the Padre Pio Shrine Pastoral Centre in Msimbazi, Dar es Salaam.
The launch formed part of activities marking 800 years since the death of Saint Francis of Assisi.
Dr Maghembe said documenting the Franciscans’ history was important because their work had extended beyond religious activities to areas that directly affect communities, particularly education, health and social services.
“Tanzania values the contribution of the Franciscans to the development of our communities,” he said, stressing the Government’s commitment to continued cooperation with faith-based institutions in providing services and improving citizens’ welfare.
He said the history of the Franciscans had become part of Tanzania’s heritage and should be preserved for future generations.
The publication traces the history of the Franciscan presence in Tanzania and highlights its contribution to the country’s social and cultural development.
The launch also highlighted the role played by the Franciscan network in strengthening Tanzania’s historical and diplomatic ties with Italy and Switzerland.
Italian Ambassador to Tanzania Giuseppe Coppola said the book offered an important account of how the legacy of Saint Francis had helped create links between Tanzania and Italy.
He said the history documented in the book demonstrated the contribution of the Franciscan family to Tanzania’s social and cultural development while also strengthening people-to-people relations between the two countries.
Swiss Ambassador to Tanzania Nicole Providoli highlighted the contribution of Swiss Franciscans, who arrived in Tanganyika in 1921.
She said they became involved in education, healthcare and community development, making their work an important part of the historical relationship between Switzerland and Tanzania.
“The contribution of the Franciscans has been an important part of strengthening the historical relationship and cooperation between Switzerland and Tanzania,” she said.
The book comes at a time when Tanzania is seeking to preserve historical records of institutions that have played a role in shaping communities and providing essential social services.
Beyond documenting the religious history of the Franciscans, the publication provides an account of their involvement in sectors that have had a direct impact on Tanzanian communities over generations.
The launch also underscored the broader role of faith-based institutions in national development, with the Government recognising their contribution alongside public efforts in education, healthcare and social welfare.
For Tanzania, preserving such records could help future generations understand how religious and community institutions have contributed to the country’s social development and international relationships.