In a 1967 article, the late Professor Ali Mazrui spoke about “Tanzaphilia”, explaining it as “a romantic spell which Tanzania casts on so many of those who have been closely associated with her.” Mazrui was an internationally renowned Kenyan-born professor, historian and author. This description of Tanzania aligns with the vision of the first president of Tanzania, Julius Nyerere, which likened Tanzania to a candle on top of Mount Kilimanjaro that sends beyond its borders rays of hope, love and dignity. It is unfortunate that in recent years Tanzania has become the opposite of Mazrui’s description and Nyerere’s vision. A vivid manifestation of this sharp turn is the denial of the COVID-19 pandemic as the rest of the East Africa region has acknowledged the pandemic and taken steps to manage it.