Mohammed Iqbal Dar: The Man Who Named Tanzania Passes Away at 80

Mohammed Iqbal Dar, the man who named Tanzania, died at 80 in Birmingham. He creatively suggested the name by combining letters from Tanganyika and Zanzibar. With a passion for humanitarian work, he maintained strong ties to Tanzania even after his move to the UK.

Mohammed Iqbal Dar, the individual credited with naming “Tanzania,” has passed away at the age of 80 in Birmingham, United Kingdom. His health had been declining for nearly a decade, leading to difficulties in mobility during his final years. Mr. Dar was born on August 8, 1944, in Tanga, Tanzania, and was the son of the esteemed physician, Dr. Tufail Ahmad Dar, who practiced in various regions throughout the country.

Mr. Dar received his education in Tanzania, attending H.H. The Aga Khan School followed by Mzumbe Secondary School. In 1964, while studying, he came across a newspaper advertisement soliciting name suggestions for the newly formed union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar. He enthusiastically participated and submitted the name “Tanzania,” which won the competition.

As a recognition for his suggestion, Mr. Dar was awarded a prize of Sh200 (approximately $280 in 1964) and a medal presented by the then Minister for Information, Sheikh Idrisa Abdul Wakil. He later shared the inspiration behind the name, combining the first three letters of “Tanganyika” (TAN) with those of “Zanzibar” (ZAN), incorporating an “I” from his name, Iqbal, and an “A” to symbolize his ties to the Ahmadiyya Muslim community.

Despite relocating to the UK in 1965, Mr. Dar maintained a strong bond with Tanzania, making numerous visits and supporting humanitarian initiatives benefiting diverse communities. He remained actively involved in attending religious gatherings within Tanzania, highlighting his enduring connection to his homeland.

In summary, Mohammed Iqbal Dar’s legacy as the namer of Tanzania endures through his significant contributions and his unwavering connection to his homeland. His innovative approach to creating the name illustrates his dedication and creativity. Mr. Dar’s commitment to aiding humanitarian efforts and involvement in religious affairs continues to inspire many, reflecting a life well-lived.

Original Source: globalsouthworld.com