Juma Mwapachu, Former EAC Chief, Dies at 82
Former EAC Secretary-General Juma Mwapachu has died at 82 in Dar es Salaam. He was a key figure in Tanzanian politics and diplomacy.
Veteran Tanzanian Diplomat and Former EAC Chief Juma Mwapachu Dies at 82
Saturday, March 29, 2025
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – Ambassador Juma Volter Mwapachu, a prominent figure in Tanzanian politics and former Secretary-General of the East African Community (EAC), has died at the age of 82. He passed away while undergoing treatment at Muhimbili National Hospital, according to reports confirmed on the evening of March 28, 2025.
Born on September 27, 1942, in Mwanza, Ambassador Mwapachu leaves behind a formidable legacy spanning diplomacy, law, politics, and regional integration. He was widely recognized for his extensive public service, particularly his influential role in strengthening East African cooperation.
A member of Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM), Tanzania’s ruling party, Mwapachu served in numerous senior capacities throughout his career. Notably, he was Tanzania’s Ambassador to France and later the country’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
His regional prominence grew significantly when he was appointed Secretary-General of the East African Community in 2006, succeeding Uganda’s Amanya Mushega. The appointment was made by former Tanzanian President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete and endorsed by the EAC Heads of State Summit on April 4, 2006. Mwapachu’s leadership during his tenure was instrumental in deepening integration among EAC member states.
Ambassador Mwapachu was a highly educated legal expert. He earned his law degree from the University of Dar es Salaam in 1969 and later obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in International Law, International Institutions, and Diplomacy from the Indian Academy of International Law and Diplomacy in New Delhi.
In recognition of his exceptional service and intellectual contributions, he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Literature (Doctor of Literature, Honoris Causa) by the University of Dar es Salaam in 2005. He also received honorary degrees in Political Science from the National University of Rwanda and in Literature from his alma mater.
Beyond diplomacy, Mwapachu held various roles in sectors such as banking, law, rural development, and private enterprise, showcasing a multifaceted professional journey that greatly benefited both Tanzania and the broader East African region.
Ambassador Juma V. Mwapachu’s passing marks the end of a distinguished era of public service. Tributes are expected to pour in from across the region, honoring his lifelong dedication to diplomacy, education, and regional unity.
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