By Grace Kuria
Top African leaders have already arrived at the Jamhuri Stadium in Dodoma, Tanzania, where the state funeral of the late Tanzania President John Joseph Pombe Magufuli is being held.
Kenya’s President Uhuru Kenyatta, South Africa’s Cyril Ramaphosa, Botswana’s Mokgweetsi Masisi , Malawi’s Lazarus Chakwera, Felix Tshisekedi of DR Congo, Comoros’ Azali Assoumani, Zambia’s Edgar Lungu, Zimbabwe’s Emmerson Mnangagwa, Mozambique’s Filipe Nyusi are among African leaders who are already present in Dodoma.
A host of Tanzanian leaders are also present, led by the country’s president, Samia Suluhu Hassan.
Thousands of Dodoma residents began gathering outside Jamhuri Stadium in the wee hours of Monday morning to bid farewell to Magufuli.
Zanzibar residents will view Magufuli’s body on Tuesday, March 23. Those in Mwanza will have their chance on 24th.
On Thursday, March 25 Magufuli’s body will be taken to his home, in Chato, where family members, people in Chato and neighbouring places will have their turn.
Magufuli will be buried the following day Friday, March 26th.