GOVERNMENT COMMITS TO EXPANDING LEGAL AID ACCESS
The Government has reiterated its commitment to bringing legal aid services closer to citizens, highlighting sports as a key driver for both public justice and community health.
Speaking today, May 31, 2026, during the climax of the Wakili Marathon at the Jamhuri Stadium in Dodoma, the Deputy Minister for Constitution and Legal Affairs, Hon. Zainab Katimba, praised the initiative for fundraising to support legal aid while promoting healthy living.
The marathon, organized by the Tanzania Public Bar Association (TPBA), attracted over 1,000 participants from across the country, including staff from the Office of the Attorney General who competed in the 5km, 10km, and 21km races.
Hon. Katimba noted that the marathon's core objective—raising funds for legal aid—perfectly aligns with the ongoing nationwide legal aid campaigns spearheaded by the Sixth Phase Government under President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan.
"The goal of the Wakili Marathon is to generate resources that bolster the Government's efforts to ensure Tanzanians access justice. This marathon directly injects momentum into our mission of bringing these vital services to the grassroots," Hon. Katimba stated.
The Deputy Minister urged the leadership of TPBA to make the marathon a permanent fixture on their annual calendar to ensure sustainable benefits for the public and to continuously fortify the country's legal aid support system.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Deputy Attorney General, the Director of Planning, Budgeting, and Innovation, Mr. Buji Bampebuye, described the event as a vital bridge between legal sector stakeholders and ordinary citizens.
Mr. Bampebuye emphasized that the government will continue to partner with various stakeholders to ensure such initiatives remain sustainable. He noted that the marathon serves a dual purpose: enhancing public awareness of legal rights and fostering solidarity within the legal fraternity.
"This marathon was established as part of TPBA’s strategy to support legal aid service delivery nationwide, while simultaneously strengthening solidarity among our members and legal sector partners," Mr. Bampebuye added.
Running under the theme "Legal Aid Closer to Tanzanians," the 2026 Wakili Marathon was heavily sponsored by the Office of the Attorney General, underscoring the state's dedication to broadening access to justice for all.