MSLAC resolves family feud in Mabibo

DAR ES SALAAM: THE Mama Samia Legal Aid Campaign (MSLAC) has successfully mediated a long-standing and violent family dispute between Doto Hamis Hussein and her brother Juma Hamis Hussein, residents of Mabibo Kanuni in Dar es Salaam.

Speaking to the ‘Daily News’ following the reconciliation, Doto revealed that the conflict stemmed from a minor domestic misunderstanding, which eventually escalated into a serious and painful fallout.

Doto recounted the ordeal with emotion, describing how she suffered severe physical and emotional abuse at the hands of her biological brother including being beaten with sticks, pelted with stones and nearly stabbed with a knife.

The attack, witnessed by neighbours, sparked fear throughout the community.

“Our fight started after my daughter confronted him about the dirty state of the toilet. That simple remark triggered his anger. He began verbally abusing me in front of my children,” she said.

She added, “the conflict persisted for a long time and at its peak, I was seriously injured when he assaulted me with a stick and stones and even attempted to stab me. Thankfully, neighbours intervened and helped me report the matter to the police.”

Over time, Juma realised the gravity of his actions and began making various efforts to reconcile with his sister.

However, those attempts initially failed. It was then that he decided to seek assistance from the Mama Samia Legal Aid Campaign to help resolve the dispute.

Through the campaign, Doto was given the opportunity to share her experience with legal experts.

A formal mediation process was initiated, ultimately leading to her decision to forgive her brother in the interest of restoring peace in the family.

“I chose to forgive him, not because what happened was easy to accept, but because family harmony is more important. I’m grateful to the government and to Mama Samia for initiating this campaign, which gave me a voice and a solution,” said Doto.

She continued, “After Juma presented his side to the legal experts, I was called in and joined the mediation process. With the help of the professionals, we engaged in constructive dialogue and apologised to each other.”

The two also agreed to follow legal advice, including observing a period of reflection and ensuring each other’s safety going forward.

Reflecting on the reconciliation, Doto said, “I was full of pain and resentment, but professional support helped me understand the value of forgiveness. Today, I have forgiven my brother and we are starting a new chapter.”

Moreover, Neighbour Ms Fatuma Rajabu, who witnessed the dispute, expressed her relief and joy at the outcome.

“I’m truly happy to see that they were able to reconcile and forgive each other. We were worried things could take a darker turn. But now, seeing my neighbour and her brother make peace and restore their bond is truly uplifting,” she said.

She also urged the community to seek professional support such as legal aid or social welfare services when faced with similar situations, rather than resorting to violence or harsh language that can worsen conflicts.

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“Family disputes are not something to celebrate, but resolving them is something to be thankful for. Let us continue educating and supporting one another as neighbours,” she said