RECIPIENTS OF THE HONORARY DOCTORATE DEGREES (HONORIS CAUSA) CONFERRED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF DAR ES SALAAM (1961 - PRESENT)
1966: Julius Kambarage Nyerere
Honorary Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa)Nyerere was the first president of Tanzania, a renowned statesman, and a visionary leader who played a pivotal role in the country's independence and post-colonial development. He is celebrated for his philosophy of Ujamaa (African socialism), which sought to foster self-reliance and unity among Tanzanians.
1986: Julius Kambarage Nyerere
Honorary Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa)He was recognized again for his continued contributions to governance, education, and Pan-Africanism. As Chancellor of the University of Dar es Salaam, he championed higher education and research for national development.
2005: Ambassador Juma Volter Mwapachu
Honorary Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa)A seasoned diplomat and scholar with a strong regional integration and economic development background. Mwapachu was crucial in strengthening the East African Community (EAC) and advancing Tanzania's position in international affairs.
2006: Benjamin William Mkapa
Honorary Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa)Former President of the United Republic of Tanzania (1995-2005), recognized for his leadership in economic reform, poverty alleviation, and press freedom. Mkapa was instrumental in implementing structural adjustments that transformed Tanzania's economy, paving the way for sustainable growth.
2011: H.E. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete
Honorary Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa)Fourth President of Tanzania (2005-2015), known for his dedication to national development, education, and diplomacy. He played a key role in expanding higher education opportunities and fostering Tanzania’s relations with international partners.
2011: H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni
Honorary Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa)Museveni is the president of the Republic of Uganda, recognized for his role in regional stability, pan-Africanism, and economic transformation. His leadership contributed to infrastructure development and peacekeeping initiatives within the East African region.
2013: Prof. Ngugi wa Thiong’o
Honorary Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa)Ngugi is a globally celebrated literary icon, scholar, and activist known for his contributions to African literature, language preservation, and post-colonial critique. He advocates for decolonizing African education and has influenced generations of writers and thinkers.
2014: Ambassador Fulgence Kazaura
Honorary Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa)A distinguished Tanzanian diplomat and public servant who represented the country in key international roles. His foreign policy and governance expertise have significantly shaped Tanzania’s global engagement.
2014: Lord David John Sainsbury
Honorary Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa)A prominent philanthropist, former UK Minister for Science and Innovation (1998–2006), and founder of the Gatsby Charitable Foundation. He has significantly contributed to science education, innovation, and economic development in Africa.
2016: H.E. Thabo Mvuyelwa Mbeki
Honorary Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa)Former President of South Africa (1999-2008), Mbeki is recognized for his role in the African Renaissance, economic diplomacy, and peacebuilding. He was a key architect of NEPAD (New Partnership for Africa’s Development) and played a significant role in mediating conflicts across the continent.
2020: Hon. Pius Chipanda Masanga Msekwa
Honorary Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa)A veteran statesman and Tanzania’s first Vice Chancellor of UDSM. Msekwa also served as Speaker of the National Assembly, contributing to strengthening parliamentary democracy and governance structures in Tanzania.
2020: Hon. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah
Honorary Doctor of Letters (Honoris Causa)Namibia's deputy prime minister and minister of foreign affairs were recognized for their contributions to the country’s independence struggle and their leadership in international diplomacy, gender equality, and pan-Africanism.
2022: H.E. Samia Suluhu Hassan
Honorary Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa)She is the president of the United Republic of Tanzania and the first female head of state in the country’s history. She has been instrumental in advancing gender equality, economic reform, and Tanzania’s international engagement. Her leadership continues to inspire many across Africa and beyond.
