Joseph Isangura
The Tanzanian government has officially launched the National Legal Aid Campaign, a program designed to provide free legal assistance to citizens, particularly those in underserved areas.
The campaign, which aligns with President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s vision for a more inclusive legal system, was inaugurated in Lindi by Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa on February 19, 2025.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Majaliwa emphasized the importance of making legal aid accessible to every Tanzanian, regardless of their financial situation. He noted that over 1.3 million people have already benefited from the initiative, with a significant number of men leading in seeking legal services.
“This campaign is about ensuring that justice is not a privilege for a few, but a right for all,” Majaliwa stated. “We encourage citizens, especially those in remote areas, to take advantage of this opportunity and resolve their legal disputes.”
Professor Palamagamba Kabudi, Minister of Information, Culture, Arts, and Sports, described the campaign as a groundbreaking initiative that directly supports President Samia’s 4R philosophy—focused on reconciliation, resilience, reforms, and rebuilding Tanzania. He highlighted that the Ministry of Constitution and Legal Affairs has played a crucial role in implementing the program, ensuring that legal aid services reach as many people as possible.
The campaign, which will run until February 2026, covers both Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar. It aims to educate citizens on legal matters such as gender-based violence, land disputes, inheritance rights, and human rights. The initiative is a joint effort involving various government ministries, civil society organizations, and legal experts.
For many Tanzanians, especially those in rural areas, accessing legal help has been a major challenge due to financial constraints and lack of awareness. The campaign seeks to bridge this gap by increasing legal education, offering counseling to victims of domestic violence, and helping citizens understand their rights and responsibilities.
“We want people to know that justice is not just for those who can afford lawyers. It is for everyone,” said Professor Kabudi. “By reaching out to communities, we are giving people the tools they need to protect their rights and resolve conflicts peacefully.”
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The government hopes that in the long run, this initiative will improve access to justice for vulnerable groups, reduce legal conflicts caused by misinformation, and promote overall stability and social harmony.
As the campaign continues across the country, officials urge citizens to participate and seek the legal support they need. “If you have a legal issue and don’t know where to turn, this campaign is for you,” Majaliwa said. “Justice should not be out of reach for anyone.”
With its people-centered approach, the National Legal Aid Campaign stands as a testament to Tanzania’s commitment to building a fair and just society—where the law works for everyone, not just a select few.
