CONSTITUTION and Legal Affairs Minister Dr Damas Ndumbaro has announced that the Mama Samia Legal Aid campaign has gained international recognition, now being cited as a role model, particularly among Commonwealth member states.

Dr Ndumbaro made the remarks in Dar es Salaam yesterday while addressing matters discussed during a recent meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, where the Samia Legal Aid campaign was highlighted. Participants from various countries inquired about the campaign’s origins and operational framework.

He explained that the initiative aims to reach ordinary citizens, especially women, children, and vulnerable groups, and has been praised for improving access to justice for people who cannot afford legal services.

"Participants raised numerous questions, with some asking about the funding of the campaign. We explained that it is funded by the citizens themselves through their taxes. This sparked discussions with other nations, who recognized the campaign as an exemplary model and expressed their intention to implement similar programmes in their own countries," he said.

The minister expressed his pride, noting that it is an honour for Tanzanians to see other nations adopting the campaign, which has earned global respect. 

Dr Ndumbaro emphasized that the campaign ensures even low-income individuals can access free legal representation or advice on matters such as inheritance, marriage, land disputes, and cases of sexual violence.

He described the campaign as an implementation of constitutional rights, specifically referencing Article 13 of the Constitution of Tanzania, which guarantees equality before the law.

The government, in partnership with civil society organizations, religious institutions, and private lawyers, has established legal aid centres across various regions to provide these services. The programme is managed under the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC), the Legal Aid Department of the Ministry of Constitution and Legal Affairs, along with other stakeholders.

Dr Ndumbaro also pointed out that the programme aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 16, which focuses on Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.

He concluded by stating that the legal aid campaign has not only facilitated Tanzanians' access to justice but has also emerged as a global vision for justice and social development. Other nations, especially those facing issues of inequality before the law, are now looking to Tanzania as a model for inclusive legal reform.