Msuya was born in Chomvu, Usangi, in the Mwanga District of Kilimanjaro Region.

He attended Makerere University College from 1952 to 1955 and worked for social and community development in rural areas from 1956 to 1964.

On November 6, 1985, his portfolio was expanded and he became Minister for Finance, Economic Affairs and Planning until March 1989.

[2] In December 1994, Msuya became Prime Minister for a second time, concurrently serving as Vice President.

[3] On 23 October 2019, Cleopa Msuya, at the age of 88, was appointed Chancellor of the Ardhi Institute by the President of the United Republic of Tanzania.