Career
He was the effective ruler of the country from January to December 1972 while Julius Nyerere toured the countryside. Kawawa was a strong advocate of economic statism. He later served as Defense Minister from 1977 to 1980.
After his retirement, Kawawa remained a behind-the-scenes influence in Tanzanian politics.
Kawawa died on 31 December 2009 in Dar es Salaam at the age of 83. Honorary degrees.