Mwalimu Julius Nyerere was an anti-colonial activist, political theorists, and politician who governed Tanganyika (Tanzania) as Prime Minister elected latter as Tanzania’s president. Nelson Mandela was an anti-apartheid activist, first black president of South Africa who assisted end the apartheid regime ushering in a peaceful transition to majority rule! These two former presidents played a big role and looked upon as the emblem of peace, unity, democracy, and leadership, and governance in Africa.
Mwalimu Julius Nyerere was the first African presidents to facilitate a peaceful transfer of power voluntarily vacating office in 1985 at the height of the cold war. It is a cult that has shaped Tanzania politics up to date, and it is among the few countries in Africa whereby elections periods do not lead to turmoil, hatred, and divisions. On the other hand, Mandela created a cult of reconciliation by reaching out to the enemy, in order to explore common grounds and do what is best for the country! The latter moves by the late Nelson Mandela and Mwalimu Nyerere show that it is possible for African leaders to unite practice good governance, and ethical leadership.
The two leaders provided the basis for leaders in Africa to practice goodwill ideals (Ujamaa) and set a perfect record of accomplishment for the organization of state matters, which will be a vital blueprint in governance. Nyerere ideologies based on honest in the public service sector, stewardship of public affairs, strategic guidance social justice, service and concern for the poor. Mandela leadership style based on delegation and persuasion, which creates a culture of leadership rejuvenation as well as initiative that, modelled strong personal ethics in leadership. Their major interest was to raise the living standards, & economic development of African people and that is why Julius Nyerere laid a strong foundation on Ujamaa, which eradicated corruptions, provided ingredients needed for democracy, and leadership for the people. Nelson Mandela on the other hand when elected as president focused to improve the living standards of black people in South Africa.
Image credit: AZ quotes
In conclusion, the legacies of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere and Nelson Mandela are still alive up to date, and is a reflection on what democracy, good governance and leadership should be.
Works Cited: Africacenter.org / Britannica /
By Samson Ogaye
Africa Global News Publication
