Mwalimu Nyerere Day at the United Nations

Powering Potential founding executive director Janice Lathen attended the commemoration of Mwalimu Nyerere Day at the United Nations on Monday, October 14.

Mwalimu Nyerere Day dais

Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere was a visionary leader of solid moral integrity. He served as the first president of Tanzania from 1964-1985, which earned him the title “Father of the Nation.” His influence reached multitudes during that time, including Nelson Mandela. He is known as a model of peace and unity, and was a dignified African presence on the world stage. A famous quote of Nyerere: “A country or a village or a community cannot be developed. It can only develop itself. If real development is to take place, the people have to be involved.”

Economic and Social Council Chamber

Held in the Economic and Social Council Chamber, the prestigious event began with opening remarks by the Permanent Representative from the United Republic of Tanzania to the United Nations Ambassador Tuvako Manongi, and a keynote address from the UN Deputy Secretary General Jan Eliasson. Afterward, ambassadors from around the world paid their respects to a hero who set an example for leaders across the globe.

Book signing

After closing statements, a book launch was held for the release of Julius Nyerere: Africa’s Titan on a Global Stage by Prof. Ali A. Mazrui and Prof. Lindah Mhando; and a reception followed at the Tanzania Mission to the United Nations.

Ms. Lathen said, “The first time I went to Tanzania, the cooperative spirit of the Tanzanians was palpable to me and I was spiritually uplifted by it. When I asked about it, I was told it was because of their first leader, Mwalimu Nyerere. Tanzanians are truly blessed to have such an inspired first leader and the world can benefit from following their example.”