The Minister for Community Development, Gender, Women and Special Groups, Dr. Dorothy Gwajima, has officially inaugurated a Children’s Remand Home in Mtwara Region, reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting children’s rights and strengthening the criminal justice system under the leadership of President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
The launch, held on April 12, 2025, coincided with the commemoration of the International Day for Street Children, marked in the region.
Dr. Gwajima emphasized that the new remand home is part of the government's broader efforts to ensure children in conflict with the law are not detained alongside adult offenders—an act that contravenes the Child Act, Chapter 13.
She further noted that the government has already started implementing the recommendations of the Criminal Justice Reform Commission.
These include the establishment of remand homes and rehabilitation schools in various regions to create a child-friendly environment for minors undergoing legal proceedings. To date, 16 regions have allocated land for the construction of such facilities.
Dr. Gwajima urged the Judiciary, Police Force, Prosecutors, and Social Welfare Officers to ensure that children are handled in accordance with the law, particularly by considering their actual age and presenting accurate information to support fair and appropriate court decisions.
She underscored that the Mtwara Remand Home will provide a safe and secure environment for children who come into conflict with the law, preventing them from being placed in adult prisons—a step that will significantly enhance child protection and welfare.
The minister also commended leaders from various ministries, government institutions, and all stakeholders for their collaboration in making this critical service a reality.
