“Laws Exist in Books but Not in Practice”—Ambassador Irene Kasyanju Opens Seminar on Women’s Access to Justice in Africa

Arusha, Tanzania – Ambassador Irene Kasyanju has warned that despite growing female representation across courts, parliaments, and governance institutions in Africa, the gap between legal frameworks and actual practice continues to deny many women the justice they deserve.

“Too often, laws exist in books but not in practice, leaving women without the remedies and respect they deserve,” she stressed as she officially opened the seminar on Strengthening Legal Frameworks and Access to Justice for Women in Africa in Arusha.

Amb. Kasyanju, who serves on the Administrative Committee of the African Institute of International Law (AIIL), told participants that Africa has made commendable progress—through instruments such as CEDAW, the Maputo Protocol and Agenda 2063—but systemic challenges still impede women's full enjoyment of rights.

Reflecting on her long career, she traced her engagement with Arusha-based legal institutions to her decade-long service as Director of Legal Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from 2005 to 2015.

“When these institutions were being established, I found myself coming frequently to Arusha to support their setup—finding offices, residences for senior officials, and coordinating their legal and diplomatic needs,” she recalled. “I am humbled that my contribution was well received.”

She emphasized the crucial role of AIIL in shaping an equitable legal culture on the continent.

“Institutions such as the African Institute of International Law are indispensable. By convening this seminar, the Institute demonstrates its commitment to ensuring women's rights become a reality—not rhetoric—and that access to justice is a right, not a privilege.”

Amb. Kasyanju further acknowledged the support of development partners, including the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, whose contributions continue to strengthen human rights education.

Expressing appreciation to judges, lawyers, prosecutors, scholars, and civil society leaders participating in the workshop, she urged them to use the forum to develop impactful recommendations.

“Together, we can build legal systems that ensure no woman is left behind. Justice requires strong institutions, gender-sensitive officials, adequate resources, and the removal of cultural and social barriers that silence women’s voices.”

She concluded by formally declaring the seminar open, saying:

“I now have the honor to declare the seminar on strengthening legal frameworks and access to justice for women in Africa officially open. May this week of dialogue be fruitful, inspiring, and transformative.”

The seminar is taking place in Arusha, home to the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights and the African Institute of International Law.