Tanzania's long serving cabinet minister, William Lukuvi, dies at 70

President Samia Suluhu Hassan has announced the passing of the William Vangimembe Lukuvi. 

The veteran politician died at approximately 7:00 a.m. today, March 25, 2026.

He was receiving treatment for a heart attack at the Benjamin Mkapa Hospital in Dodoma.

At the time of his passing, Mr. Lukuvi was serving as the Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office [Policy, Coordination Parliamentary Affairs and Persons with Disabilities].

President Samia expressed deep sorrow and offered her heartfelt condolences to the Speaker of the National Assembly.

She also extended her sympathies to the bereaved family and the residents of the Isimani constituency.

The Head of State described the late minister as a dedicated public servant who spent decades building the nation.

Mr Lukuvi was a towering figure in Tanzanian politics with a career spanning over thirty years.

He first entered Parliament in 1995 representing the Isimani constituency in Iringa.

Throughout his tenure, he became known as a pragmatic leader and a stabilizer within the ruling party.

His legacy is most closely linked to his transformative work as the Minister for Lands, Housing, and Human Settlements Development.

During his seven years in that role, he spearheaded major land reforms and worked to digitize national land registries.

He was respected for his hands-on approach and his commitment to resolving long-standing land disputes across the country.

In recognition of his vast experience, President Samia appointed him as a Senior Advisor for Political and Social Relations in 2023 before he returned to the cabinet.

His sudden departure leaves a significant void in the government and the 13th Parliament. Further details regarding funeral arrangements will be released by the government in coordination with his family.