Over 23,000 residents receive primary school level free legal aid in Kinondoni

DAR ES SALAAM: SOME 23,610 residents have so far benefited from the free legal assistance through the ongoing Mama Samia Legal Aid Campaign in Kinondoni district of Dar es Salaam region, with land disputes emerging as the most common legal challenge among those seeking help.

Speaking yesterday during the campaign’s latest stop at Wazo ward, the Campaign Coordinator, Mr Antony Elias, said the initiative launched earlier this week has been implemented at Ananasifu, Mabwepande, Bunju and now Wazo as part of a broader plan to reach more wards within the municipality.

“We officially launched this campaign on June 17, 2025, starting in Ananasifu Ward, followed by Mabwepande, Bunju and currently Wazo. So far, we’ve reached 23,610 residents who have turned out in large numbers in search of legal support,” said Mr Elias.

According to him, land-related disputes have been the most common cases brought forward, with many residents reporting that they unknowingly purchased land without valid ownership documents resulting in overlapping claims and legal uncertainty.

“In the wards we’ve visited, the most recurring issue is informal land acquisition. Many people have bought plots without verifying ownership, only to later discover that the land was already owned by someone else. This has led to widespread confusion and conflict,” he said.

In addition to land matters, the campaign has also addressed a range of issues including marital conflicts, gender-based violence, inheritance disputes and other longstanding legal challenges.

“We’ve encountered a significant number of family and marriage-related cases, particularly involving divorce, child custody and property division. We’ve also handled cases related to inheritance, gender-based violence and other unresolved legal matters that have weighed heavily on many residents,” he added.

Mr Elias emphasised that the campaign provides not only direct legal aid but also legal education presented in simple, accessible language ensuring that all citizens can understand their rights and available legal options.

He further noted that the team is actively listening to individual complaints, particularly those that have remained unresolved for years and is working to deliver practical, lasting solutions.

Mr Elias reiterated that the campaign aligns with the directive of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, issued through the Ministry of Constitution and Legal Affairs, to ensure free legal aid and education are accessible to all citizens.

He also commended the Kinondoni Municipal Council especially the Office of the District Commissioner for its strong support, including mobilising residents and coordinating local leaders to ensure the campaign runs smoothly.

In his remarks, he encouraged more residents to participate and make full use of the services being offered.

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“We urge all residents, especially those in the upcoming wards, to turn out in large numbers when the campaign reaches their area, as guided by local leaders, ward executives and government representatives,” he said.

The Mama Samia Legal Aid Campaign is set to continue in additional wards across Kinondoni in the coming days, as part of ongoing efforts to expand access to free, reliable legal support for all.