In a story that has left many both shocked and inspired across East Africa, Mzee Sabasita, the father of popular Tanzanian artist Tunda, has once again captured public attention — this time after receiving his custom-made coffin, which he personally commissioned and paid for six months ago.
The retired police officer, who first made headlines in September last year for organizing his own funeral preparations while still alive, continues to embrace death with calm acceptance and meticulous planning.
According to reports aired by Wasafi TV, the elderly man expressed immense joy and satisfaction after receiving the coffin from local carpenters who had spent half a year crafting it to his exact specifications.
“I am genuinely delighted. Today marks a day of great happiness for me,” he said joyfully. “This day is significant because I have received what I shared with the public – after preparing the grave, now I am awaiting the coffin.”
“The coffin is exquisite, and I am satisfied with it. I paid three million shillings, and what I have received matches the quality corresponding to the amount I paid. Now, I await death,” he added with a serene smile.
An Unusual Yet Thoughtful Preparation
Mzee Sabasita’s story began drawing attention last year when he revealed that he had already dug and decorated his own grave to meet specific standards. He explained that he was not doing it out of fear or morbidity, but as a way of accepting life’s inevitable end and ensuring his family would not be financially burdened after his passing.
At that time, he estimated the grave’s cost at TSh 7 million, but with advice from friends and well-wishers, he made improvements that raised the total cost to TSh 10 million. Combined with his TSh 3 million coffin, his total spending now stands at TSh 13 million — a clear reflection of how seriously he has taken his final preparations.
A Lesson from the Past
In an earlier interview, the retired officer explained that his decision stemmed from painful memories dating back to 1995, when both his parents passed away and the family struggled to afford their burial arrangements.
“I’m undertaking these preparations to avoid the inconveniences I witnessed in 1995 when my parents passed away,” he shared. “It’s to reduce the burden on my family and to remind everyone that death is inevitable. Each passing day reduces our lifespan by one day.”
Online, Tanzanians have expressed mixed reactions to Mzee Sabasita’s story. While some have described his actions as wise and courageous, others find them strange and unsettling. Many, however, agree that his level of acceptance and preparedness reflects deep faith and peace of mind — qualities rarely seen in conversations around death.
A Peaceful Outlook on Life and Death
Despite the unusual nature of his preparations, Mzee Sabasita’s calmness and positivity stand out. His words carry a profound message about embracing life’s natural cycle with dignity and readiness, instead of fear or denial.
As he put it, “I have done my part. I’m at peace, and I’m ready whenever my time comes.”
For many, his story serves as a reminder that while death is inevitable, how we prepare for it — emotionally, spiritually, and practically — defines how peacefully we live today.
