Tanzania: Mkapa leaves a socialist state more liberalised

After two consecutive five-year terms, Tanzanian President Benjamin Mkapa will retire after elections on 14 December. Known as a brilliant and largely socialist politician, he nonetheless adopted a pragmatic approach in his efforts to improve the country's economy. Mkapa's two terms in office have brought to Tanzania significant economic progress, although much more needs to be achieved if the nation is to be placed on the same economic footing as some other developing countries.