East Africa is mourning the loss of a statesman. Former Tanzanian president Benjamin Mkapa died today morning while receiving treatment in hospital.

Kenya's president Uhuru Kenyatta has made a  "Presidential Proclamation, announcing that the Republic of Kenya shall observe THREE DAYS of national mourning throughout the entire territory of our Country. Further, the Kenyan Flag and the Flag of the East African Community shall fly at half-mast"  in honour of Mkapa.

In a statement Uhuru said,

"On behalf of the Government and the People of the Republic of Kenya, and on my own behalf and that of my family, I convey heartfelt condolences to His Excellency Dr. John Pombe Magufuli, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Mama Anna Mkapa and the entire Mkapa Family, the friends and associates of the deceased former President, and to the great People of Tanzania. We stand with them during this difficult time of loss and mourning of a great Statesman."

Mkapa leaves behind his wife Anna and three children and several grandchildren.

Anna Mkapa served as the third First Lady of Tanzania from 1995 to 2005.

Here are photos of the family during happier times.