Media Statement

24 July 2020

President Ramaphosa sends condolences to Tanzania following passing of former President Benjamin Mkapa

President Cyril Ramaphosa has, on behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa, sent a message of condolences to the Government and the people of the United Republic of Tanzania following the passing away of HE Benjamin William Mkapa, former president of the United Republic of Tanzania.

HE Benjamin Mkapa was born on 12 November 1938 in Mtwara, Tanzania, and passed away on 24 July 2020 at the age of 81.

President Ramaphosa said Former President Mkapa was a visionary African leader. An exceptional peace broker leading several peace mediation processes in Africa. He was a revolutionary at heart and formidable leader championing peace, integration and economic development in East Africa and Southern Africa.

President Ramaphosa also recalled the words of President Mandela in his address to President Mkapa in his 1998 visit to Tanzania where he said: “The struggle for our liberation was one that you made your own, not in any distant way but as freedom fighters sharing the sacrifices and the dangers. You gave us a home away from home when we most needed it.”

President Ramaphosa underscored the important role played by Former President Mkapa, particularly how he supported and encouraged sanctions against apartheid South Africa for their occupation of Namibia at the United Nations and on the international stage.

President Ramaphosa said the people of South Africa will always have warm recollections of the life of Former President Mkapa, for the role that he played not only in South Africa but also on the African continent.

Media enquiries: Khusela Diko, Spokesperson to the President – media@presidency.gov.za

ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION

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