TANGA, Oct. 6 -- ON August 31, 1984, in the quiet wards of Handeni District Hospital in Tanga Region, a baby boy entered the world- one whose journey would one day mirror the spirit of a nation in transition.

Born to Elias Mulumbe, a respected District Natural Resources Officer and Ruth Kimbute, a dedicated mother with a strong sense of integrity, young Wilson Elias was nurtured in a home that valued discipline, education and service.

His parents were public servants in every sense of the word and from them, Mr Elias absorbed a deep understanding that leadership means responsibility, not privilege.

Four decades later, that same boy now stands at the forefront of Tanzanias new generation of political leaders.

Mr Elias is the presidenti...