The Uhuru Torch[1] (Swahili: Mwenge wa Uhuru, literally "Torch of Freedom") is one of the National Symbols of Tanzania. It is a kerosene torch. It symbolizes freedom and light. It was first lit on top of Mount Kilimanjaro on December 9, 1961 by Alexander Donald Gwebe-Nyirenda. [2] Symbolically to Shine the country and across the borders to bring hope where there is despair, love where there is enmity and respect where there is hatred. The Uhuru Torch race takes place every year starting from different places throughout the country.
In 2024, the Uhuru Torch was once again brought to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro to commemorate 60 years of the union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar and the 25th anniversary of the passing of Tanzania's first president, Julius Nyerere.[3] On 15 October, soldiers from the Tanzania People's Defense Force began carrying the torch up the Marangu route to the peak.[4]
See also
edit- Uhuru Monument
- Arusha Declaration Monument
- Order of the Uhuru Torch at Orders, decorations, and medals of Tanzania
References
edit- ^ Tanzania National Symbols
- ^ "Tanzania: Man Who Took Uhuru Torch to Kilimanjaro Peak". allafrica.com. AllAfrica. Retrieved 23 January 2015.
- ^ "UHURU TORCH @60 Why this year's race unique - Daily News". 2024-10-13. Retrieved 2024-10-26.
- ^ "Altezza Travel accompanies the Uhuru Torch to Kilimanjaro". Altezza Travel. Retrieved 2024-10-26.