By The Arusha News – Reporters in Arusha and Moshi
Hundreds of mourners from all walks of life gathered in Arusha and Moshi last Wednesday to pay their final respects to Advocate Wilson Jacob George Mallya who passed away in Arusha on August 8.
Born on July 15, 1951, the distinguished lawyer was celebrated for his integrity, humility and lifelong commitment to justice and public service.
“He was dedicated to his profession and a very calm person,” recalled Justice Mohamed Othman Chande, former Chief Justice and a classmate of the late Mallya at the University of Dar es Salaam.
Admitted to the Roll of Advocates of the High Court of Tanzania in 1978, the late Mallya served with distinction in government, the East African Community (EAC) and the Tanzania Farmers Association before transitioning to private practice where he remained until his retirement in 2017.
His contributions extended beyond the legal field, as he served on various boards and commissions, including the African Peer Review Mechanism, making significant impacts on both national and regional development.
Tributes described him as a soft-spoken mentor, a devoted family man and a man of faith whose kindness, selflessness and service touched countless lives. Many remembered him as a leader who made personal sacrifices for the good of others, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations.
Diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2022, the late Mallya faced his illness with remarkable courage. He is survived by his wife, Edith, four children and three grandchildren.
FINAL JOURNEY – With measured steps and heavy hearts, members of Arusha’s legal fraternity escort the body of the late Senior Advocate Wilson Mallya from his residence in Arusha on Wednesday, beginning the solemn journey to Moshi, where he was laid to rest at his farm. A towering figure in the legal community, the late Mallya is honoured by his peers who now bear him with dignity and respect. At the front left, Senior Advocate Elvaisson Maro leads, followed by Advocates Reeta Jonas Minja; on the front right is Advocate Arnold Laizer, Senior Advocates Method Kimomgo and Hamis Mkindu close behind — a silent guard of honour for a man whose life was defined by service to justice. Inset: The late Mallya. (Photo: Filbert Rweyemamu/ EAC).
