In Loving Memory of Mohammed Iqbal Dar (1944 – 2025)
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mohammed Iqbal Dar, a man whose legacy is forever etched in the history of Tanzania. He passed away at the age of 80 in Birmingham, United Kingdom, where he had resided since 1965. A visionary, a patriot, and a devoted humanitarian, he leaves behind a legacy of unity, faith, and unwavering dedication to his roots.
Born on August 8, 1944, in Tanga, Tanzania, Mohammed Iqbal Dar was the beloved son of Dr. Tufail Ahmad Dar, a renowned doctor who served in the Tanga and Morogoro regions. From a young age, he exhibited a keen intellect and a passion for learning. He received his primary and secondary education at H.H. The Aga Khan School before proceeding to Mzumbe Secondary School in 1964.
It was during his time at Mzumbe that he responded to a public call in The Standard newspaper, seeking a name for the newly formed union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar. With remarkable creativity, he coined the name Tanzania—a fusion of TAN from Tanganyika, ZAN from Zanzibar, and the letters IA to complete its distinct identity. This historic contribution earned him a cash reward of Tsh200 and a medal presented by Sheikh Idrisa Abdul Wakil, then Minister for Information.
Despite moving to the UK in 1965, Mohammed Iqbal Dar remained deeply connected to Tanzania. He was a regular attendee at religious and cultural events, contributing to humanitarian causes that transcended religious and national boundaries. His enduring love for his homeland was evident in his unwavering support for charitable initiatives and his commitment to fostering unity and progress.
His life was not without struggle. The last decade of his journey was marked by illness, which made mobility increasingly difficult. Yet, even in adversity, his spirit remained strong, and his legacy continued to inspire those who knew him.
Mohammed Iqbal Dar’s name will forever be synonymous with the very identity of Tanzania—a testament to the power of ideas and the enduring mark one person can leave on history. His story is a reminder that even the simplest acts of creativity and patriotism can shape the course of a nation.
He is mourned by family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched with his kindness, intellect, and unwavering devotion. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary soul, we celebrate a life well-lived and a name that will never be forgotten.
May he rest in eternal peace…..