Africa-Press – Tanzania. Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is in mourning following the death of former Prime Minister and First Vice President, Cleopa David Msuya, who passed away on Wednesday, May 7, at Mzena Hospital in Dar es Salaam, aged 94.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan confirmed Mr Msuya’s death in a recorded video, stating that he passed away at 9 a.m. on May 7, 2025, while receiving treatment for cardiac complications.
“The nation has suffered a great loss. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, relatives, friends and all Tanzanians. I hereby declare seven days of national mourning, during which flags will fly at half-mast from May 7 to May 13,” said President Hassan.
Mr Msuya had been receiving treatment for a prolonged illness both locally and abroad, including at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute (JKCI), Mzena Hospital and in London, UK.
Born on January 4, 1931, at Chomvu Usangi, Mwanga District, Kilimanjaro Region, Mr Msuya was a prominent civil servant and politician.
After studying at Makerere University from 1952 to 1955, he began his career in rural community development before rising through the ranks of public service. Between 1964 and 1972, he served as Permanent Secretary in several key ministries, including Community Development and Culture, Lands and Water Development, Economic Affairs and Planning, and Finance.
He was appointed Minister for Finance in 1972, later serving as Minister for Industry before being named Prime Minister in 1980.
Mr Msuya went on to hold multiple cabinet positions, including Minister for Finance, Economic Affairs and Planning and Minister for Industry and Trade.
He returned as Prime Minister and Vice President in 1994, serving until 1995. After retiring from active politics in 2000, he remained active in the ruling CCM, serving on its National Executive Committee.
In addition, Mr Msuya chaired the Kilimanjaro Development Forum and was appointed Chancellor of Ardhi Institute in 2019.
The government is expected to provide further details on funeral arrangements in due course.
For More News And Analysis About Tanzania Follow Africa-Press
