President Ramkalawan extends condolences to Tanzania, South Africa |20 March 2021

President Magufuli (photo left) and King Goodwill Zwelithini Zulu

President Wavel Ramkalawan has sent separate messages of condolence to Tanzania and South Africa following the passing of H.E Dr John Pombe Joseph Magufuli, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, and His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini Zulu.

In his message to H.E. Mrs Samia Suluhu Hassan, Designated President of the United Republic of Tanzania, President Ramkalawan highlights Dr Magufuli’s long political career, spanning many decades at the service of the people of Tanzania.

“The late President Magufuli was well-known and respected for his charismatic personality, bold and innovative thinking, as well as for his fervent patriotism. President Magufuli will be remembered and honoured as a foremost statesman of modern Africa, a courageous and steadfast leader, a man of conviction with a fierce determination to steer his country towards progress and shared prosperity. We mourn with you the passing of President John Pombe Joseph Magufuli and pray for the eternal repose of his soul,” expresses President Ramkalawan.

He concludes in offering his heartfelt condolences on behalf of the government and people of the Republic of Seychelles, to the family and loved ones of the late President, and to the government and people of the United Republic of Tanzania.

In a separate message of condolence to his counterpart, H.E. M. Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, President Ramkalawan underlines that throughout his long reign, spanning over five decades at the service of the Zulu nation and the people of South Africa, the late King Goodwill Zwelithini Zulu left a lasting impact on South Africa, on the great Zulu nation and on the African continent.

“He shall be remembered and respected as a pragmatic and courageous African statesman, and as a foremost proponent of the Zulu traditions, culture and customs,” expresses President Ramkalawan.

President Ramkalawan also highlights the important role the late King played in promoting and encouraging reproductive health education, creating awareness of the HIV/Aids pandemic in South Africa and contributing significantly to the fight against the deadly scourge on the African continent.

“On behalf of the government and people of the Republic of Seychelles, and on my own behalf, I offer my deep and heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of His Majesty King Goodwill Zwelithini Zulu, to the Zulu nation and to the government and people of the Republic of South Africa,” concludes the President.

Press release from State House