Mohammed Iqbal Dar, who named “Tanzania,” passed away at 80 in Birmingham. Born in Tanga, he suggested the name during a contest in 1964, combining elements from Tanganyika and Zanzibar. Despite his health issues, he remained dedicated to Tanzania, supporting various humanitarian projects and attending events.
Mohammed Iqbal Dar, the individual credited with naming “Tanzania,” has passed away at the age of 80 in Birmingham, United Kingdom, where he resided since 1965. Mr. Dar had been in declining health for nearly a decade and was unable to walk during his final years.
Born on August 8, 1944, in Tanga, Tanzania, Mr. Dar was the son of Dr. Tufail Ahmad Dar, a respected physician who practiced across various locations in the country. He received his education at H.H. The Aga Khan School and later at Mzumbe Secondary School in Tanzania.
In 1964, while still a student, he responded to a newspaper advertisement requesting suggestions for a name for the newly formed union of Tanganyika and Zanzibar. His proposal, “Tanzania,” was selected as the winning name, earning him a prize of Sh200 (approximately $280 today) along with a medal presented by Sheikh Idrisa Abdul Wakil, the then Minister for Information.
Mr. Dar elaborated on the name’s creation: he combined the first three letters of “Tanganyika” (TAN) and “Zanzibar” (ZAN), incorporated an “I” from his first name, Iqbal, and added an “A” to signify his affiliation with the Ahmadiyya Muslim community. This innovative process resulted in the name “Tanzania.”
Despite relocating to the United Kingdom, Mr. Dar maintained a strong connection to Tanzania, visiting frequently and supporting numerous humanitarian projects that benefitted people of all backgrounds. He also participated in religious events in Tanzania.
Mohammed Iqbal Dar’s legacy endures through his significant contribution to Tanzania’s national identity. His thoughtful naming process reflects both personal and cultural connections. Mr. Dar’s continued philanthropic efforts and bonds with his homeland demonstrate his enduring love for Tanzania, despite living abroad in his later years.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
