Tanzania Service Spotlight

The Tanzania Chapter of the JRCLS has engaged in several service projects over the past few months and the positive influence of the chapter is growing!

A notable recent event included an official introduction of the Law Society to local police officers at a training college in Moshi, Kilimanjaro. Adinani Kingazi, a local chapter member in Tanzania, provided the training and shared that the JRCLS is “an international organization of lawyers, law students, and legal professionals who value faith, ethics, and service.” Adinani also shared how the Law Society “promotes religious freedom, high professional standards, and community involvement” which “helps members grow through networking, mentorship, and opportunities.” 

Adinani also taught a group of children and adults in their region about criminal law and access to justice. The training provided understanding on common crimes, penalties, and defenses, as well as steps to take when arrested or reporting a crime.

The topics taught during this event included the following:

  1. *Basic Human Rights- understand fundamental rights under international humans rights convention and under Tanzania Constitution, Protection from Discrimination, Abuse and Exploitation.

  2. Gender Based Violence (GBV) - Rights of Victims and Legal protections against domestic violence, rape, and harassment, how to report GVB cases and seek legal help.

  3. Child Protection Laws - Children Rights (protection from child labor, and abuse); Legal procedures for child custody, maintenance, and adoption.

  4. Inheritance and Succession Laws - Legal procedures for wills and inheritance rights, especially for women and orphans; Avoiding property grabbing after the death of a spouse or parent.

  5. Dispute Resolution and Legal Aid - How to settle disputes through legal and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods, and where to access free legal aid and community justice services.

Annarose Hayata, another member of the Law Society in Tanzania, shared that “providing pro bono legal services and legal education can make a profound difference in communities by bridging access to justice and empowering individuals with knowledge of their rights and responsibilities.”  She also indicated that the Tanzania Chapter's efforts are likely having a ripple effect—helping individuals resolve their legal challenges while fostering greater understanding and confidence within the community.

“Pro bono services demonstrate a strong commitment to social responsibility, addressing legal needs for those who might not otherwise afford assistance,” Annarose stated. “Legal education, meanwhile, equips people with tools to navigate legal systems, advocate for themselves, and even contribute to societal change.”