President Uhuru Kenyatta has declared a seven-day national mourning following the death of Tanzania’s President John Pombe Magufuli who succumbed to a heart problem on Wednesday.

Kenya, a long standing friend of Tanzania, said it will observe seven days of national mourning due to the high esteem the two East African countries have for each other.

Uhuru also ordered flags to fly at half-mast through out the Republic of Kenya in recognition of Magufuli’s strong legacy and in solidarity with her neighbour Tanzania.

“That as a symbol of our enduring respect for the fallen President, as well as our solemn solidarity with the Nation and the People of the United Republic of Tanzania; the Flag of the East African Community and the Flag of the Republic of Kenya shall be flown half0masr at all public buildings and public grounds and wherever else,” said President Uhuru Kenyatta.

The Head of State said flags will be flown half mast until the sunset of Magufuli’s burial day.

President Magufuli died at a hospital in Dar es Salaam while receiving treatment. For close to two weeks, Magufuli had been away from the public eye. The Vice President Ms Suluhu Samia confirmed Magufuli’s death on Wednesday night though a televised national address.

“Rais wa Jamhuri ya Muungano wa Tanzania Mheshimiwa Dr. John Pombe Magufuli amefariki kutokana na maradhi ya moyo(President John Pombe Magufuli has died from a heart disease),” said Ms Suluhu.

Ms Suluhu is set to be sworn in as President for the remainder of the term that ends in 2025.