Former Tanzania president Mkapa dies at 81

Tanzania’s former President Benjamin Mkapa, who served from 1995 to 2005, died last night, President John Magufuli said in a statement.

Mkapa, who was Tanzania’s third president who led several regional peace mediation efforts in office and afterwards, died while receiving treatment at a hospital in Dar es Salaam, Magufuli said, without giving more details.

He declared a seven day mourning period, during which all flags will be flown at half-mast.

Magufuli asked all Tanzanians to remain calm, patient and united during this difficult time.

Mkapa, who died aged 81, also served as an ambassador, minister and key official of the ruling CCM party, Magufuli said.