First Governor of the Bank of Tanzania is Dead

Edwin Mtei, Tanzania’s first Governor of the Bank of Tanzania (BoT) and a founding member of the opposition party Chadema, has died aged 94.

His death was announced by the President of the Republic of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu.

“I have received with sadness the news of the death of Mzee Edwin Mtei, the First Governor of the Bank of Tanzania (BoT),” Suluhu said.

Suluhu said Mzee Mtei will be remembered for his significant contribution to the building of our nation.

She added that his efforts were particularly notable in strengthening the foundations of planning, the economy, finance, and democracy.

“Mzee Mtei will be remembered for his significant contribution to the building of our Nation, especially in strengthening the foundations of planning, economy, finance, and democracy,” she added.

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Samia Suluhu Condolence Message

Suluhu said she offers her condolences to the family, relatives, friends, and all those affected by this tragedy.

“I offer my condolences to the family, relatives, friends, and all those affected by this tragedy. May Allah rest his soul in peace.”

CHEDEMA Party Members

Former Chadema chairman Freeman Mbowe said Mtei had been ill for a long time and that his condition deteriorated suddenly.

“He died in an ambulance while being taken to Seliani Hospital. By the time he reached the hospital, he had already passed away,” Mbowe said.

Chadema National Vice Chairman John Heche said the party had lost one of its pillars.

“Our party will issue an official statement today. We take this opportunity to convey our deepest condolences to Mzee Mtei’s family, relatives, and friends,” Heche said.

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Mzee Edwin Mtei Tenure

Mtei, who began serving as Governor of the Bank of Tanzania in 1966, passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

Twelve years after his appointment at the central bank, he became Minister for Finance and Planning, a position he held from 1978 until his resignation in 1981.

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Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu. PHOTO/Suluhu X.