By Musa Mbogo
Cavendish University, represented by its leadership and stakeholders, convened in Dar-es-Salaam on 1st October 2024 to pay tribute to its former Chancellor, H.E. Benjamin William Mkapa, during the 3rd Benjamin Mkapa Memorial Lecture. The lecture, held at the Johari Rotana Hotel, honored Mkapa’s lasting legacy as a visionary leader whose contributions impacted both Tanzania and the wider East African region.
Dr. Olive Sabiiti, Vice Chancellor of Cavendish University Uganda, opened the lecture by recognizing the six years during which Mkapa influenced the university’s growth and mission. The theme of the lecture, “The Role of Diplomacy in Institutional Building, Private Sector Development, and Regional Integration: Reflections on the Late H.E. Benjamin Mkapa’s Leadership,” was a fitting tribute to his commitment to diplomacy, which Dr. Sabiiti described as a driving force behind his efforts to empower the private sector, build regional unity, and strengthen institutions. Reflecting on the values Mkapa embodied, Dr. Sabiiti urged attendees to consider how they can embody his legacy in their work at Cavendish University, within the East African Community, and beyond.
The significance of diplomacy and collaboration was a recurring theme throughout the event. Dr. Sabiiti called on the audience to build bridges rather than walls, emulating Mkapa’s vision for fostering understanding and cooperation in the region. She expressed hope that the discussions would ignite ideas to continue Mkapa’s vision and contribute to a brighter future.
Benjamin Mkapa served as the third President of Tanzania from 1995 to 2005. Known for his visionary policies and commitment to Pan-Africanism, he played a significant role in fostering economic stability, private sector growth, and regional integration in East Africa. He passed away in July 2020.
Dr. David Mutabanura, Executive Director of Cavendish University Uganda, recalled the inception of the memorial lecture as a way to maintain a connection to Mkapa’s visionary leadership.
Initially conceived in Kampala in 2022, the lecture’s move to Tanzania this year symbolized the deep ties between the two countries and honored Mkapa in his homeland. Dr. Mutabanura acknowledged the welcome and support from Mkapa’s family, led by Mama Anna Mkapa, and various partners, such as the Benjamin Mkapa Foundation and the Tanzanian High Commission in Uganda.
He praised Mkapa’s dedication to transformative change, academic excellence, and a student-centered culture at Cavendish University. Under his tenure, the university flourished, now hosting nearly 5,000 students from 47 nationalities.
Prof. Olubayi Olubayi, Chairman of the University Council, also spoke on Mkapa’s exceptional leadership, both as the President of Tanzania and as Chancellor of Cavendish University Uganda. He highlighted Mkapa’s achievements, including visionary policies for economic and social advancements, Pan-African ideals, and a commitment to ethical leadership. Mkapa encouraged students to contribute meaningfully to Africa’s development and maintain integrity and innovation, leaving a lasting impression on graduates.
Reflecting on Mkapa’s legacy, Prof. Olubayi described how Mkapa believed in the power of education to drive societal transformation. Mkapa’s vision for Africa was centered on unity, progress, and shared prosperity, and his leadership fostered a culture of excellence at Cavendish University that aligns with these principles.
Hon. Prof. Palamagamba John Aidan Mwaluko Kabudi, Tanzania’s Minister of Constitutional and Legal Affairs, served as the Guest of Honour, commemorating Mkapa’s commitment to public service, diplomacy, and regional integration. Recalling his own shared trajectory with Mkapa, transitioning from journalism to leadership, Prof. Kabudi praised Mkapa’s ability to combine diplomacy with practical action.
He acknowledged Mkapa’s achievements in establishing the Benjamin Mkapa Foundation, which significantly impacted Tanzania’s healthcare system by addressing workforce shortages, particularly in rural areas. Mkapa’s contributions extended to fostering a robust private sector and economic policies that laid the foundation for Tanzania’s economic stability today.
Prof. Kabudi also praised Mkapa’s role in conflict mediation and peace-building within East Africa, including efforts in Burundi and his instrumental role in shaping the modern East African Community. Mkapa’s vision for an integrated region prioritized economic growth and diplomatic cooperation, influencing the current framework of regional collaboration.
The speakers reiterated that Mkapa’s vision for ethical leadership, regional unity, and development remains a guiding principle for Cavendish University and beyond. Bringing the lecture to Tanzania was seen as a tribute to Mkapa’s enduring legacy and an opportunity to reflect on his values of education, diplomacy, and transformational leadership.
The event closed with a call to action, encouraging all attendees to emulate Mkapa’s dedication to building a united, prosperous, and peaceful East Africa. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at [email protected]).
