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Ramaphosa sends condolences to Tanzania as the country begins 14 days of mourning

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his condolences to the people of Tanzania following the passing of President John Magafuli.

The 61-year-old Magufuli died from a heart disease. He had not been seen in public since February 27.

President Ramaphosa says: “South Africa is united in grief with the government and people of Tanzania as they go through this difficult moment.”

President Magufuli served as the fifth President of Tanzania and chaired the Southern African Development Community until August 2020.

Tanzania has declared 14 days of mourning following his passing.

Burial arrangements

Vice President, Samia Suluhu Hassan says burial arrangements are under way and that flags will be flown at half-mast.

Magufuli is Tanzania’s first President to pass away while in office.

Kenya declares 7 days of mourning

Kenya has declared seven days of mourning over Magufuli’s death, while the US has said it remains committed to continuing to support Tanzanians as they advocate for respect for human rights while combating the COVID-19 pandemic.

World Health Organisation Director General, Dr Tedros Ghebreyesus, and other world leaders, including British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro, have also sent their condolences to the late President’s family and the people of Tanzania.

Tributes pour in: 

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