Former Tanzanian President Dr Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete played a pivotal role in securing Kenya’s landmark peace agreement that ended the country’s devastating post-election violence in 2008. 

The historic accord was signed on 28 February 2008 after two months of intense mediation following the disputed Kenyan general elections of 27 December 2007, which triggered widespread violence and left more than 1,000 people dead while hundreds of thousands were displaced. 

The agreement, signed at Harambe House in Nairobi by President Mwai Kibaki and opposition leader Raila Odinga, established the National Accord and Reconciliation Act 2008. It created the position of Prime Minister for Mr Odinga and paved the way for a Grand Coalition Government that restored political stability. 

The mediation was led by former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan under the African Union’s Panel of Eminent African Personalities, with Former Tanzanian President Benjamin Mkapa serving as a key member of the mediation team 

Dr Kikwete, then President of Tanzania and Chairperson of the African Union, had intervened during the final stages of negotiations, applying diplomatic engagement that helped bridge differences between the rival parties and break the deadlock, contributing significantly to one of Africa’s most successful peace processes.