The presidency breaking the news reported that Lowassa, aged 70 died on Saturday afternoon after a long period of illness with complications

Tanzania’s Vice President Philip Mpango in a post on X, was receiving treatment for lung ailment, and high blood pressure, at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute in Dar es Salaam until his death.

Five days of national mourning have been declared in honour of the former prime minister during which all flags will be flown at half-mast throughout the country.

Edward Lowassa was a public servant who served Tanzania for 35 years.