Presidents of Tanzania

Below are notable presidents of Tanzania in chronological order, with the years each served and a brief summary.

Julius Nyerere

Served: 1962–1985

Led Tanganyika to independence, became president in 1962 and of Tanzania after the 1964 union with Zanzibar; retired in 1985.

Ali Hassan Mwinyi

Served: 1985–1995

Eased state control of the economy and encouraged private enterprise.

Benjamin Mkapa

Served: 1995–2005

Known for anti-corruption efforts and tight public spending; died in 2020.

Jakaya Kikwete

Served: 2005–2015

Served two terms after a long career as foreign minister.

John Magufuli

Served: 2015–2021

Died in office on 17 March 2021.

Samia Suluhu Hassan

Served: 2021–present

Sworn in on 19 March 2021 as Tanzania's first female president, after Magufuli's death.

Sources: Wikipedia, List of heads of state of Tanzania; Wikipedia, President of Tanzania (checked Nov 2026). Tanzania has had six presidents.. Last reviewed November 2026.

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