On April 7, 2025, the Tanzania Human Rights Defenders Coalition (THRDC) conducted a one-day dialogue at RAFIKI Hotel in Dodoma, uniting Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Bar Associations from both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar to forge stronger transformative partnerships for advancing the rule of law, justice sector reforms, and institutional accountability.

We were honored to have the Deputy Minister for Constitutional and Legal Affairs, Hon. Jumanne Abdallah, as the Guest of Honor, sharing his insights on the critical role of collaboration between civic actors and legal professionals in protecting civic space and promoting good governance.

This session, themed “Forging Strategic Partnerships Between CSOs and Bar Associations to Advance Rule of Law, Justice Sector Reforms, and Institutional Accountability,” brought together representatives from the Tanganyika Law Society (TLS), Zanzibar Law Society (ZLS), East Africa Law Society (EALS), Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU), Zanzibar Female Lawyers Association (ZAFELA), and members of THRDC.

These institutions, together with THRDC as the lead organization, are jointly implementing the program aimed at strengthening civic space, justice sector reforms, and institutional accountability.

As one among esteemed facilitators, Hon. Judge Robert Makaramba, set the stage for bold strategies that link grassroots advocacy with legal expertise.

The dialogue focused on practical solutions to address restrictive laws, strengthen public interest litigation, promote judicial independence, empower marginalized communities, and ensure that legal reforms genuinely reflect the needs of all Tanzanians.

Through open discussions and shared commitment, CSOs and Bar Associations laid a strong foundation for a new era of joint action, sustained advocacy, and stronger institutional partnerships that will drive lasting legal and governance reforms across Tanzania.

This project is Co funded by the European Union.