[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 146 (Monday, October 25, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2176]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  IN HONOR OF PRESIDENT JULIUS NYERERE

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. JANICE D. SCHAKOWSKY

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, October 25, 1999

  Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, as the world mourns the death of 
President Julius Nyerere, I wish to send the deepest condolences to the 
people of Tanzania.
  For many years, the world has come to know President Julius Nyerere 
as a pioneer for change. He was committed to his people and was a 
leader whose only ambition was to build a strong nation and a solid 
future for Africa. That is why he was a great statesman and a favored 
son of millions of Africans.
  President Nyerere fought for his nation's independence and was 
elected to lead Tanganyika in 1961. In 1964, President Nyerere 
peacefully united Tanganyika with the island of Zanzibar, forming the 
Republic of Tanzania. He served as the leader of that nation for nearly 
twenty-five years. A proud father of a post-colonial nation, he worked 
to translate that pride and success to all of Africa.
  All righteous people admired him, for he was a fearless pursuer of 
justice. He stood tall and spoke up against African strongmen and 
brutal dictators like Uganda's Idi Amin and the minority rule in South 
Africa.
  President Nyerere voluntarily stepped down in 1985. A world leader, 
he built a solid foundation for his nation so that it can peacefully 
grow and flourish. He returned to his modest farm, but remained a 
powerful voice for peace and a relentless ambassador for the needs of 
Africans and the African continent.
  He died at the age of 77 while trying to meditate an end to the war 
in Burundi. At the time of his death, President Nyerere was engaged in 
his favorite activity--finding a way to lead Africa on a journey of 
lasting prosperity and peace. For all he has given to his nation, his 
beloved continent and its people, and the world, I am certain that his 
legend will live on forever. Having had the good fortune to work with 
the 9th Congressional District African and Caribbean Advisory 
Committee, I know that his influence has been broadly felt and am 
hopeful that his spirit will guide us in the future.

                          ____________________