Dar es Salaam— Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa has called on regional and district commissioners across Tanzania to actively promote the use of the Mama Samia legal aid program, a government-backed initiative designed to improve access to justice for citizens facing legal challenges.
Speaking at the launch of the Mama Samia Legal Aid campaign in Dar es Salaam, where he represented President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, Majaliwa emphasized that the delivery of justice requires collaborative efforts beyond government intervention alone.
“Achieving justice demands genuine partnership among leaders, families, religious institutions, civil society, and citizens,” he said.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed President Samia’s commitment to ensuring equitable, timely justice for all Tanzanians as a foundation for social cohesion and the rule of law.
“By fulfilling our individual responsibilities, we can build a nation proud of a strong, credible justice system that protects all citizens equally,” Majaliwa stated.
Highlighting the government’s broader vision, he said Tanzania aims to remain a nation governed by principles of justice, equality, and the rule of law, which are essential for sustainable peace and development.
He called on all Tanzanians and institutions to support these efforts for the benefit of current and future generations.
Majaliwa also urged citizens to report incidents of violence and rights violations promptly to the appropriate authorities, stressing the importance of community vigilance in upholding justice.
Dr. Damas Ndumbaro, Minister of Constitution and Legal Affairs, outlined the campaign’s foundation on the 4R philosophy initiated by President Samia, which has significantly strengthened good governance frameworks in Tanzania.
“Our ministry is committed to ensuring that access to justice remains a cornerstone for building an equitable, peaceful, and prosperous nation,” he said.
From Zanzibar, Minister of State Dr. Haroun Ali Suleiman reported that the campaign has extended legal aid services to over 422,000 residents, including more than 209,000 women, across all five regions, underscoring the government’s inclusive approach to justice.
The Deputy Commissioner of Prisons, Dr. Justine Mhimba Kaziulaya, noted the program’s success in delivering legal support to over 15,600 inmates nationwide, resulting in the release of nearly 1,000 detainees on bail.
Bavoo Junusi, President of the Government Attorneys Association, lauded the initiative as a critical response to the unmet legal needs of Tanzania’s low-income and marginalized populations.
“President Samia’s administration demonstrates responsiveness and commitment to citizens’ welfare, and legal professionals stand ready to support this transformative campaign nationwide,” he said.
UN Women Representative Hodan Addou praised the government’s efforts to improve justice for vulnerable groups, including women, through enhanced legal awareness and access.
“We are proud to partner with President Samia’s administration in this historic pursuit of justice,” she stated.
The Mama Samia Legal Aid campaign represents a significant milestone in Tanzania’s ongoing efforts to strengthen rule of law, ensure social equity, and foster inclusive development.