Mama Samia Legal Aid Campaign, Day one settles eight disputes as legal aid drive gains pace

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Samia Legal Aid campaign has so far resolved eight cases out of fifteen presented before the team on Monday alone, bringing hope and fresh expectations to residents seeking legal assistance.

The Samia Legal Aid Campaign was launched in Dar es Salaam on Monday, attracting a number of residents who, for a long time, have been fighting for justice in various areas including the court of law.

Speaking on Tuesday during the ongoing campaign activities at Mbagala, State Attorney from the Ministry of Constitution and Legal Affairs, Ms Edith Shekigele expressed satisfaction with the public response.

“We have had a very positive turnout. Since the legal aid campaign was launched, eight cases have been successfully resolved and the citizens are receiving justice they deserve,” Ms Shekigele said.

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The legal aid initiative, inaugurated on Monday, is set to run for ten consecutive days until June 25. According to Shekigele, the initiative is a collaborative effort involving various government institutions and legal bodies.

“We are not here as the ministry alone. This is a joint effort involving the Judiciary, the Office of the Attorney General, the National Prosecution Office, the Office of the Solicitor General, the Commission for Human Rights and Good Governance, the Law Reform Commission, entrepreneurs and several other institutions,” she explained.

The representatives from the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development are providing immediate services related to land title deeds and handling land disputes on-site. Ms Shekigele encouraged residents of Dar es Salaam and the nearby regions to take advantage of the services being provided.

“We aim to reach at least 10 wards and 30 neighbourhoods in each municipal council where our teams will be stationed,” she added.

The majority of cases being presented are related to land disputes, child custody, marriage, and inheritance matters.

The Coordinator of Mbagala Paralegals for Justice and Development Organisation (MPJDO), Mr Ally Kigombe echoed similar sentiments about the campaign’s momentum.

“The campaign is progressing well and the public response has been overwhelming since the launch,” he said.

Mr Kigombe said that inheritance disputes have been the most frequently reported, often caused by the failure to write wills and the lack of knowledge among estate administrators on how to properly manage the distribution process after a relative’s death.

He revealed that many administrators violate inheritance laws and procedures, leading to conflicts among family members. Another recurring challenge involves disputes between separated spouses, especially concerning child maintenance.

“People come to us with court rulings that have not been enforced. We provide legal advice and try to link them with the relevant courts and legal professionals available on-site,” Mr Kigombe explained.

He further mentioned that while some disputes are resolved on the spot, others are settled through mediation, largely because many people lack basic legal knowledge. Mr Kigombe recommended that the duration of the campaign be extended, citing the high number of unresolved cases and the overwhelming public demand for legal assistance.

“Many disputes are being resolved through this government initiative. I believe that all of us here are working towards becoming better public servants for our communities,” he said.

The Samia Legal Aid campaign continues to provide critical legal support across Dar es Salaam, underscoring the government’s commitment to justice and citizen empowerment.