Local Housing Resources Center Provides Assistance

The Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) Arusha Legal Aid Office hosted Ms. Mellissa Hisko, Director of Democratic Governance and Human Rights Programming and Partnerships Division at Global Affairs Canada, on February 24, 2026. The visit was part of an official assessment of the “Leaving No Women on Death Row Behind” Project, which ran from March 2022 to March 2026.

The visit highlighted the partnership between LHRC and Global Affairs Canada, focused on advancing justice and legal protection for women affected by the death penalty in Tanzania.

Project Achievements

The “Leaving No Women on Death Row Behind” Project has contributed to strengthening Tanzania’s criminal justice system and safeguarding the rights of vulnerable women. Key areas of impact include community awareness and capacity building, strategic government engagement, and direct legal aid and reintegration support. These interventions have aimed to reach vulnerable women within the justice system.

Addressing Ongoing Challenges

Discussions during the visit identified persistent social stigma faced by former prisoners as a continuing challenge. Strengthening institutional capacity within the criminal justice system to promote fairness, rehabilitation, and human dignity was also emphasized. LHRC reaffirmed its commitment to evidence-based advocacy, legal empowerment, and institutional reform.

Expanding Access to Justice

Ms. Hisko toured the LHRC Legal Aid Office in Arusha, observing efforts to expand access to justice for indigent persons, particularly prisoners and detainees reliant on legal aid services. The visit emphasized the importance of investing in grassroots legal empowerment initiatives that directly impact vulnerable populations and strengthen the rule of law.

Future Partnerships

LHRC expressed appreciation to Global Affairs Canada for its partnership and shared commitment to human rights, gender equality, and equitable justice systems in Tanzania. As the project nears completion, LHRC aims to scale impact, strengthen collaborations, and mobilize partnerships to ensure the long-term sustainability of reforms.