Tanzania’s Vice President Mpango: I’m retiring to inherit my father’s farming legacy

Iringa. Vice President Dr Philip Mpango has announced his decision to retire from public service, marking the end of a distinguished four-decade career in government and academia. His next chapter, he said, will be spent in the fields—fulfilling a personal dream and continuing the farming legacy of his late father.

Speaking on Wednesday, 14 May 2025, during the 20th anniversary of Ruaha Catholic University (RUCU) in Iringa, Dr Mpango said his decision to retire was inspired by a desire to reconnect with his roots and to give space for younger generations to lead.

“I have decided to retire from public service and go back to farming, which was my father’s lifelong occupation,” he said. “I have served my country with commitment and integrity—now it’s time to return home and take up the hoe.”

Dr Mpango, who has served in several key government roles including Minister for Finance and Planning before being appointed Vice President in 2021, said he had also spent 14 years teaching at the University of Dar es Salaam before joining the public sector.

Reflecting on his long career, he said he felt fulfilled but believed the time was right to step aside. “We have been nurtured and we have served; now it is the turn of the youth,” he said. “Over 75 percent of our population is made up of young people. It is time for them to make their mark.”

He drew parallels to the recent retirement of Bishop Tarcisius Ngalalekumtwa of the Catholic Diocese of Iringa, commending the former cleric for voluntarily stepping down and setting an example of servant leadership.

The Vice President also used the platform to call for active civic participation ahead of the General Election scheduled for October 2025. He urged citizens, particularly the youth, to ensure their names are listed in the national voter register and to vote wisely.

“I strongly urge all citizens to safeguard the peace of our motherland during this electoral period,” he said. “Let us vote for visionary and capable leaders who will manage our resources for the benefit of future generations.”

Dr Mpango’s announcement comes at a significant political moment as the ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) and opposition parties prepare for a high-stakes election season.

The celebration at RUCU, owned by the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC), marked two decades of the university’s contribution to higher education in Tanzania. The Vice President commended the institution for its role in shaping responsible citizens and professionals grounded in ethics and service.

“RUCU has been a pillar in promoting quality education and moral values. I am confident it will continue playing a vital role in nurturing future leaders,” he said.

Dr Mpango’s remarks drew praise from students, staff, and clergy present at the ceremony. Many commended his humility, lifelong commitment to public service, and willingness to return to a simpler life rooted in agriculture.

He closed his speech with a note of personal reflection and gratitude. “I believe my late father would be proud to see me return to the land he so dearly loved. My journey has come full circle.”