Arusha, Tanzania — “Since its establishment, the African Institute of International Law has become an important pillar of legal scholarship on our continent.
Through its seminars, training programs and research initiatives, it continues to advance critical conversations, including the promotion and protection of women’s rights,” said Dr. Ines Kajiru, as she delivered a statement on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation during the official opening of the regional seminar in Arusha.
Representing the Director of Legal Affairs, Dr. Gift Kweka, Dr. Kajiru emphasized that Tanzania fully supports the mission and work of the African Institute of International Law (AIIL), noting that the Institute has significantly contributed to strengthening legal capacity and promoting dialogue on issues that shape African governance and human rights.
She extended warm greetings to participants who traveled from across Africa and beyond, commending AIIL for convening a high-level forum bringing together judges, prosecutors, scholars, policymakers, civil society leaders, and experts committed to advancing justice for women and girls.
Dr. Kajiru underscored that Tanzania remains deeply committed to promoting women’s rights in line with its Constitution and international and regional obligations, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Maputo Protocol.
“We recognize that the empowerment of women and access to justice are essential to building a just, equitable and prosperous society,” she said, noting that the Government continues to strengthen laws, institutions, and public policies to combat gender-based violence and expand opportunities for women in all sectors.
She encouraged the African Institute of International Law to continue using its expertise to support the African Union’s vision of a continent rooted in good governance, human rights, and the rule of law, adding that gatherings such as this one enrich Tanzania’s role as a regional center for legal thought and cooperation.
Addressing the delegates, Dr. Kajiru urged participants—judges, lawyers, prosecutors, academics, and human rights defenders—to engage actively, share experiences, and challenge one another to propose practical solutions that can transform access to justice for women across Africa.
“To those representing their governments, I urge you to be influential voices when you return home, ensuring that recommendations from this seminar inform national policies, institutional practices, and legislative reforms,” she stated.
She reaffirmed Tanzania’s readiness to consider the recommendations that will emerge from the seminar, expressing confidence that the outcomes will strengthen both national and continental frameworks for the protection of women’s rights.
The seminar, themed “Strengthening Legal Frameworks and Access to Justice for Women in Africa,” brings together key actors in justice systems across the continent for a week of dialogue, training, and collaboration.
Concluding her address, Dr. Kajiru wished participants fruitful deliberations and an enriching stay in Tanzania.
“May this seminar mark a strong step toward justice, equality, and dignity for women in Africa,” she said.
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