Joseph Isangura
The Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Ambassador Dr. Emmanuel Nchimbi, visited the home of the late Jenista Mhagama yesterday, December 11, 2025, at the Itega area in Dodoma to offer condolences following her sudden passing earlier that day.
Jenista Mhagama, who until her death served as the Member of Parliament for Peramiho Constituency, died on December 11 in Dodoma.
Yesterday evening, several top national leaders also gathered at the residence to comfort the bereaved family. Among them were the Speaker of the National Assembly, Mussa Azzan Zungu, Deputy Speaker Dr. Daniel Sillo, and CCM Vice Chairman Stephen Wasira.
Colleagues Remember a Dedicated Public Servant
Same East MP Anne Kilango Malecela described the loss as a major blow, calling Mhagama a hardworking legislator who fully understood her responsibilities and contributed significantly to harmony within Parliament.
Speaking at the family residence, Kilango said she had not received any prior information about Mhagama’s illness and learned of the death directly as the news broke. She contacted Speaker Zungu, who confirmed the reports.
Kilango and the late Mhagama shared a long friendship, having entered Parliament together in 2000 under CCM.
Songea Urban MP, Dr. Damas Ndumbaro, expressed deep sorrow over the sudden death of the Peramiho legislator. He noted that as of the previous day, Mhagama had appeared to be in good condition, speaking to people normally, before her condition deteriorated abruptly on Thursday morning.
Dr. Ndumbaro said the Ruvuma Region had lost a remarkable leader, explaining that she was fondly referred to as “the Queen” by her constituents because of her dedication and service.
President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan sent her condolences to the Speaker of the National Assembly following the death of Jenista Joakim Mhagama.
In a statement issued by the Director of Presidential Communications, Bakari Machumu, the President described Mhagama as a diligent, humble, and committed leader.
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“I extend my condolences to the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Mussa Azzan Zungu, the people of Peramiho, the family, relatives, and friends,” the President said.
Prime Minister Mwigulu Pays His Respects
Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba also visited the family home in Dodoma to convey his condolences. He said the nation was shocked by Mhagama’s sudden passing, noting that they had been together in Parliament only a few days earlier and she had not indicated any health concerns.
“We are deeply shocked because just recently we were together in Parliament and she did not complain of any health issues. We leave it to God,” he stated.
Dr. Mwigulu praised the late Mhagama as a leader of integrity and determination who performed her duties with exceptional commitment both as a Member of Parliament and as a Cabinet Minister.
Burial Schedule Confirmed
According to the funeral schedule released by the Office of the National Assembly, Jenista Mhagama will be laid to rest on December 16, 2025, in Ruanda Village, Mbinga District, Ruvuma Region.
Updated Funeral Program:
- December 12, 2025 (Today):
The body will arrive at the family home in Itega, Dodoma, where public mourning will continue. - December 13, 2025:
A funeral mass will be held at the Catholic Church in Kiwanja cha Ndege, Dodoma. Condolence messages will be delivered, followed by public viewing of the body. The body will then depart for Songea later in the afternoon. - December 14, 2025:
The body will be received at Matogoro Catholic Church in Songea for a service, then taken to the family home in Makambi, Songea. - December 15, 2025:
The procession will move to Peramiho for a service, condolence speeches, and final respects. - December 16, 2025:
Burial at Ruanda Village, Mbinga District.
