Rombo mourns father Pius’s community leadership
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People in Rombo District, Kilimanjaro region, Tanzania, are mourning Father Dr. Pius Shao, who died on September 13, 2026, after a long illness.
Politicians, religious leaders, and residents described Father Pius as a key figure in the area’s development for around 40 years. Born in 1932 in Makiidi village, Rombo, he became a priest in 1967 and dedicated his life to improving health, education, and social welfare in the community.
Professor Adolf Mkenda, Member of Parliament for Rombo and Minister of Education, Science and Technology, stated that Father Pius used his faith to inspire progress and championed the founding and expansion of Ngoyoni Hospital and Mengwe Vocational Training Center. Residents compared his impact to that of Mangi Horombo, a historical leader who also contributed greatly to the region. Beyond his work on institutions, Father Pius served as a family mediator and advisor, uniting relatives and offering guidance on development issues.
Joseph Selasini, a former MP and Father Pius’s grand-nephew, explained that the priest was a mentor to many families. Assistant Bishop Deogratius Matiika noted that Father Pius fought against harmful traditional beliefs, alcohol abuse, and encouraged hard work to improve livelihoods. His funeral was to be held on September 21, 2026, in Longuo, Moshi District.
