TAWJA Silver Jubilee Celebration: A Landmark in Gender Justice

Read the full report here.

Introduction

The Tanzania Women Judges Association (TAWJA) marked its Silver Jubilee with a grand celebration in Arusha, Tanzania, from January 19-23, 2025. Under the theme “Celebrating Diversity and Solidarity in Gender Parity, 25 Years of TAWJA's Existence,” the event was supported by key organizations, including the Judiciary of Tanzania, UN Women, UNDP, and the World Bank.

The five-day program featured various activities, including a marathon, a cultural night, an official opening ceremony, panel discussions, a Biennial General Meeting, a gala night, and an excursion. The event attracted approximately 280 participants, including judges, magistrates, government officials, policymakers, and representatives from civil society and international organizations. It provided a platform for discussing women's and children's rights, gender equality, and representation in legal frameworks.

Day 1 - January 19, 2025

TAWJA Marathon 2025 – “Solidarity in Gender Justice Starts Here”

(Participants at the marathon starting line, including children and judges.)

The celebration commenced with the TAWJA Marathon 2025, featuring 5 km, 10 km, and 21 km races. Participants included judges, magistrates, TAWJA members, development partners, and community members. Notably, children actively participated, with one young runner earning a medal.

Hon. Shaly Joseph Raymond, representing the Speaker of the National Assembly, officiated the event, while His Lordship, Prof. Ibrahim Hamis Juma, Chief Justice of Tanzania, and Hon. Barke Sehel, Justice of Appeal and TAWJA Chairperson, were among the marathoners. The race symbolized unity and the collective commitment to addressing gender-based violence, early child marriages, and female genital mutilation.

Arusha Cultural Night

(Maasai dancers performing during the Arusha Cultural Night.)

The first day concluded with the Arusha Cultural Night, which showcased Tanzania’s rich heritage, focusing on Maasai traditions. Guests enjoyed traditional music, dance, storytelling, and cuisine in a vibrant setting decorated with Maasai beadwork and colorful ‘shuka’ fabrics.

Day 2 - January 20, 2025

Official Opening Ceremony

Vice President Dr. Philip Isidor Mpango addressing the audience.

The Vice President of Tanzania, Dr. Philip Isidor Mpango, officially opened the conference. In his speech, he highlighted TAWJA’s significant contributions to legal reforms and gender equality over the past 25 years. He also emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence.

Speeches from the Chief Justice of Tanzania, the Deputy Minister for Constitutional and Legal Affairs, and other dignitaries reinforced the importance of TAWJA’s work in strengthening the judiciary and advocating for women's rights.

The opening ceremony also included an award presentation honoring key figures in TAWJA’s history, including Hon. Eusebia Munuo, Justice of Appeal (Rtd.), and Hon. Barke Sehel, Justice of Appeal and TAWJA Chairperson. Additionally, TAWJA launched a special 25-Year Newsletter, documenting its journey and achievements.

Panel Discussions and Presentations

Panel One: Shaping Gender Parity in the Judiciary

Panelists discussing gender parity in the judiciary.

Moderated by Justice of Appeal Eusebia Munuo (Rtd.), this session included Hon. Rehema Kerefu, Judge Fatma Mahmoud, and Hon. Eva Nkya, Chief Court Registrar. They shared experiences of navigating the judiciary as women and emphasized TAWJA’s role in mentorship and advocacy.

Panel Two: Global Perspectives on Access to Justice and Violence Against Women and Children

This discussion, chaired by Ms. Salome Anyoti, featured Ms. Beatrice Akua Duncan (UN Women HQ) and Mr. Shigeki Komatsubara (UNDP). It addressed global challenges in ensuring justice for women and children, calling for comprehensive legal reforms and gender-sensitive judicial practices.

Panel Three: Men as Allies in Gender Parity Discourse

(Panelists discussing gender parity and social norms.)

Chaired by Chief Justice Prof. Ibrahim Hamis Juma, with contributions from Hon. Khamis Ramadhan Abdala (Chief Justice of Zanzibar) and Hon. Mohamed Othman Chande (Retired Chief Justice), this panel emphasized the role of men in advocating for gender equality and supporting female magistrates in remote areas.

Panel Four: Gender and Judicial Excellence

Hon. Justice of Appeal Ferdinand Wambali, along with Hon. Judge Dr. Juliana Masabo and Hon. Judge James Karayemaha, explored the intersection of ethical leadership, gender equality, and judicial excellence. Recommendations included mentorship programs and gender-responsive training.

Day 4 - January 22, 2025

TAWJA’s Biennial General Meeting (BGM)

The BGM led to discussions on TAWJA’s progress and culminated in an election for new leadership:

• Chairperson: Hon. Barke Sehel, Justice of Appeal
• Vice-Chairperson (Tanzania Mainland): Hon. Victoria Nongwa, Judge of the High Court
• Vice-Chairperson (Zanzibar): Hon. Aziza Sued, Judge of the High Court
• Secretary: Hon. Gladys Nancy Barthy, Judge of the High Court
• Deputy Secretary: Hon. Dr. Patricia Kisinda, Director of Judicial Training
• Publicity Secretary: Hon. Pamela Meena, Resident Magistrate In-charge
• Deputy Publicity Secretary: Hon. Chausiku Kuya, Deputy Registrar
• Treasurer: Hon. Nabwike Mbaba, Resident Magistrate

Gala Dinner

(Judges and magistrates enjoying performances at the gala dinner.)

Held at the Arusha International Conference Centre, the gala night was a celebration of TAWJA’s milestones. It featured performances, including a dramatic play from Dodoma, a musical piece from Morogoro, and a poetic recital from Mwanza. Participants wore traditional attire representing different Tanzanian regions, reinforcing unity in diversity.

Awards were presented to members who actively contributed to TAWJA’s initiatives.

Day 5 – January 23, 2025

Excursion to Ngorongoro and Tarangire

(TAWJA members at Ngorongoro Conservation Area.)

On the final day, TAWJA members embarked on an excursion to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Tarangire National Park. This provided an opportunity for networking and relaxation amidst Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.

Conclusion

TAWJA’s Silver Jubilee Celebration was more than just a milestone—it was a reaffirmation of its mission to uphold gender justice and judicial excellence. The event highlighted TAWJA’s resilience, achievements, and future aspirations while reinforcing the importance of collaboration, advocacy, and leadership in advancing gender equality in legal systems worldwide.