Mkapa played role in making Africa better – Kibaki

Former President Mwai Kibaki has described former Tanzanian President Benjamin Mkapa as a man who played a key role in making Africa a better place.

Kibaki said Mkapa, who took over from founding President Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, distinguished himself as one of the most reputable peace brokers in the region.

“At some point or other, he mediated peace talks in South Sudan, the DR Congo, Zimbabwe, Burundi and Kenya. He, no doubt, valued and worked towards a more tranquil Africa,” Kibaki said.

Mkapa and the late UN secretary general Kofi Annan were among the panel of eminent Africans that mediated a truce between Kibaki and Raila Odinga after the 2007-08 post-election violence.

The death of Mkapa was announced on Friday morning by Tanzanian President John Magufuli.

He was 81. Mkapa led Tanzania from 1995 to 2005 before handing over to Jakaya Kikwete.

Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho said Kenyans will remember Mkapa for the important role he played, alongside other eminent African leaders, in helping Kenya find a peaceful and amicable solution after the 2007-08 PEV.

Kisumu Governor Anyang' Nyong'o described Mkapa as a real giant at peacemaking and said the loss is not only Tanzania's but to the whole of Africa. 

President Uhuru Kenyatta has sent his condolences to Mkapa's family.

Uhuru mourned the departed leader as an outstanding East African who worked tirelessly for the integration, peace and progress of the region.

AU envoy Raila Odinga also mourned Mkapa as a great friend of the Kenyan people.

Edited by Josephine M. Mayuya