Remarks at the UN General Assembly on the Late H.E. John Magufuli, President of Tanzania

Ambassador Patrick F. Kennedy
Senior Advisor for UN Management and Reform
New York, New York
April 16, 2021

 

AS DELIVERED

Thank you, Mr. President

On behalf of the government and people of the United States of America, I would like to begin by extending our deepest sympathies to the wife and children of the late President, Dr. John Pombe Magufuli, to his extended family and friends, and to all the people of Tanzania.

Gathering here today, we remember a man who took immense pride in leading Tanzania and who consistently reminded us of his country’s history as a leader in securing independence and promoting sustainable development across the continent of Africa. When President Magufuli assumed office in 2015, my government saw the sense of urgency he brought to the fight against corruption and heard his desire to improve the efficiency of the Tanzanian government. When he took steps to cut down the size of Presidential delegations, and to shrink his Cabinet, we took notice. We also took notice of Tanzania’s improvement in transparency metrics, and President Magufuli’s efforts to strengthen his government’s corruption accountability mechanisms. May his memory be a blessing for those commemorating his life and tenure.

His successor, President Suluhu Hassan, and her government, are in our thoughts during this difficult time of transition. The United States has a long history of partnership with the people of Tanzania. We stand with all the Tanzanian people as they seek to move forward, united in their determination to build a more democratic, healthy, and prosperous society. We are committed to working with Tanzania’s new leadership and support their efforts as they strive to build that society for all Tanzanians.

Thank you.