DAR ES SALAAM: THE Chief Justice (CJ) of Tanzania, Professor Ibrahim Juma, has announced that the judiciary will use 2025 Law Week as a platform to drive reforms, marking the beginning of its journey toward achieving the goals outlined in Vision 2050.
He made this statement during a press briefing held yesterday at the Integrated Justice Centre (IJC) in Temeke, Dar es Salaam.
Prof Juma said that the upcoming Law Week, scheduled from January 25 to February 3, will offer an opportunity for reflection and improvements in judicial processes.
“Law Week serves as a platform for us to assess our readiness to align with the aspirations of Vision 2050,” Prof Juma explained.
“Since 2015, we have been implementing reforms guided by Vision 2025. This event provides us with an opportunity to evaluate our progress and gauge our preparedness for the ambitious goals of Vision 2050.”
The Chief Justice emphasised the need for public institutions to consider the country’s growing population and enhance systems to meet the targets of Vision 2050. This vision aims to elevate Tanzania to a high-middle-income economy and, eventually, a higher-income economy.
“We must ensure that the judiciary is not seen as an obstacle to achieving these national objectives. Adequate preparation is essential,” he remarked.
Prof Juma also addressed several challenges faced by the judiciary, particularly the lack of public understanding of legal procedures and court operations. He pointed out that this knowledge gap often leads to fear and reluctance among citizens seeking justice.
“This fear is not limited to ordinary citizens but extends to educated individuals and public servants who are unfamiliar with court procedures,” Prof Juma said.
“A lack of understanding creates hesitancy in asking questions, which leads to unnecessary apprehension in courtrooms.”
To bridge this gap, Prof Juma revealed that the judiciary has implemented various feedback mechanisms, including call centres, blogs and an official website. However, he noted that many citizens still prefer informal channels to voice their concerns.
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“While official systems are in place, we recognise that some citizens choose informal platforms to express their grievances. Nonetheless, we are working to capture feedback through all available channels, including social media,” he added.
He urged journalists and researchers to play an active role in identifying shortcomings and raising public awareness about court operations. This year’s Law Week will focus on outreach efforts to provide legal education directly to communities.
“We will go to where citizens live and work—homes, schools, markets, and other public spaces,” Prof Juma said. “Judges, court officials, the Attorney General’s office and legal professionals will be actively involved.”
Educational initiatives will target primary and secondary schools, colleges, and other public gatherings. Prof Juma noted that citizens would have the opportunity to engage directly with legal professionals, ask questions and learn how to overcome barriers to accessing justice.
The event will kick off in Dodoma, with former President Jakaya Kikwete expected to officiate at the opening ceremony, which will include a fun run led by the guest of honour.
The week-long activities will conclude in Dodoma, with President Samia Suluhu Hassan presiding over the closing ceremony.
Prof Juma reaffirmed the judiciary’s commitment to supporting Tanzania’s development goals and enhancing public trust in the justice system through continued reforms.
