DAR ES SALAAM, June 8 -- TANZANIA has earned praise for upholding religious freedom and fostering peaceful coexistence among faith communities. Widely seen as a model for national unity, its approach continues to strengthen social harmony in one of Africas most diverse nations.

The Head of the Buddhist Faith in Tanzania, Rev. Ilukuptiye Pannasekara, made the remarks during celebrations marking the birth anniversary of the global Buddhist leader, born about 2,599 years ago, as well as the 106th anniversary of the countrys first Buddhist temple, the Golden Buddha House in Upanga, Dar es Salaam.

Rev Pannasekara said Tanzania continues to stand out as a symbol of religious tolerance, noting that Buddhists in the country freely practice thei...