Prof. Sarungi: A Life Devoted to Healing and Leadership

Tanzanians Mourn the Passing of Prof. Philemon Sarungi, Renowned Surgeon and National Leader

DAR ES SALAAM, MARCH 8, 2025: The country is in mourning after the passing of Professor Philemon Sarungi, a distinguished surgeon, medical educator, and former cabinet minister. The news of his death on Wednesday evening has sparked an outpouring of grief from former cabinet ministers, academics, government leaders, and Tanzanians nationwide who knew him as a trailblazer in healthcare and leadership.

Prof. Sarungi, who dedicated his life to service, earned widespread admiration for his tireless efforts in healing and his invaluable contributions across various roles. His passing has left a profound void, particularly among those who had personal experiences with his expertise and compassion.

Former Minister of Lands, Housing and Human Settlement Developments, Prof. Anna Tibaijuka, spoke fondly of Prof. Sarungi, describing him as a leader, medical professional, and advocate for women's rights. She recounted how, in 1972, she was brought to Muhimbili Hospital in critical condition. Prof. Sarungi diagnosed and treated a neck condition that had troubled her for years, restoring her health. Later, in 1986, when she faced another health challenge, he again provided care and comfort, even joking with her husband about finding another wife due to her paralysis.

In addition to his medical work, Prof. Sarungi also played a pivotal role in advancing education in Tanzania. In 1994, when he served as Minister for Education and Culture, he supported the Tanzania Women’s Council (BAWATA) by enabling teachers from across the country to attend seminars, even when other leaders were skeptical.

Prof. Tibaijuka paid tribute to Sarungi’s legacy, writing, “You have secured your place in the annals of great leaders in our nation. Your battles have been fought with courage.”

Mr. Paul Kimiti, former Minister and Regional Commissioner, also mourned the loss of Prof. Sarungi, describing him as a dedicated public servant who prioritized national interests above all. Kimiti shared personal memories of working closely with Prof. Sarungi, emphasizing his hard work, integrity, and ability to make a lasting impact in every ministry he led. His tenure in the Ministries of Defence, Education, and Health is widely acknowledged for the strides made in each field, despite many of them being outside his original area of expertise.

Kimiti also reflected on a valuable lesson from Sarungi on the importance of respecting one’s work. “He once told me, ‘Play with your salary, not with the job you’re entrusted with,’” Kimiti recalled, underscoring the significance of accountability in one’s role.

Prominent businessman and investor, Mohamed Dewji, expressed his deep sorrow over the loss, calling Prof. Sarungi not only a great medical professional but also a beloved member of the Simba SC family. Dewji remembered him as a loyal and passionate patriot whose contributions extended far beyond medicine.

Prof. Sarungi passed away at the age of 88 from heart disease in Dar es Salaam, according to family spokesperson Martin Sarungi. The family is also grieving the loss of Emmanuel Sarungi, Prof. Sarungi’s younger brother, who passed away in Mwanza upon hearing of his brother’s death.

Born on March 23, 1936, in Tarime, Mara, Prof. Sarungi’s life was marked by a deep commitment to public service and the transformation of Tanzania’s health sector. His death marks the end of an era for Tanzanian healthcare and leadership.