[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 185 (Wednesday, December 5, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2505]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               TRIBUTE TO THE UNITED REPUBLIC OF TANZANIA

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. PAUL RYAN

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 5, 2007

  Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin. Madam Speaker, I rise to mark the 46th 
anniversary of independence for the United Republic of Tanzania, and to 
congratulate the leaders and citizens of that great Nation for all that 
they have achieved.
  It's impossible to talk about Tanzania's history and development 
without remembering the Nation's founder and first president, Julius 
Nyerere. Mwalimu, or ``Teacher,'' as he was affectionately known, was a 
great man among African leaders of his time. He dedicated his life to 
building a sense of national identity and unity. He wanted his 
countrymen to think of themselves as Tanzanians first and foremost, and 
not to set themselves apart because of their religion or ethnicity. 
Nearly a half century later, it is clear that his dream is alive and 
well.
  We should also commend Tanzania's president, Jakaya Kikwete, for all 
of his efforts to carry on the good work of Mwalimu and other Tanzanian 
leaders. From his leadership of Tanzania's National Testing Campaign 
for HIV/AIDS to his calls for greater transparency in government and an 
end to corruption, President Kikwete has tirelessly dedicated himself 
to a brighter future for his country and his people.
  As Tanzania enters its 47th year of independence on December 9, 2007, 
let us celebrate Tanzania's legacy of peace and stability, thank 
Tanzania for its close friendship with the United States, and pledge 
ourselves to work closely with President Kikwete and his people as they 
move boldly into the future.

                          ____________________