Africa-Press – Tanzania. PRESIDENT Samia Suluhu Hassan has mourned the death of the retired Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Dar es Salaam, His Eminence Polycarp Kardinali Pengo, who passed away on the night of February 19, 2026.
According to a statement issued by the Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Dar es Salaam, Jude Thaddaeus Ruwa’ich, Cardinal Pengo died at 10:00 p.m. at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute in Dar es Salaam, where he had been receiving medical treatment. We will announce funeral arrangements at a later date.
In her condolence message issued today in February through a statement by the Director of Presidential Communications, President Samia said she had received the news of his passing with deep sorrow.
President Samia described Cardinal Pengo as a spiritual leader and patriot who made a significant contribution to strengthening faith, moral values, unity, and national cohesion through his long service within the Catholic Church.
“The nation has lost a leader who served it with integrity and dedication. His contribution to spiritual and moral formation will continue to be remembered, valued, and honoured,” President Samia said.
She also extended her condolences to Archbishop Ruwa’ich, the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC), religious leaders, and all believers affected by the loss.
