In a country where legal awareness can be a game-changer, having easy access to the law is more than just a convenience—it’s a necessity. That’s where TanzLII.org steps in. As Tanzania’s go-to online legal resource, TanzLII is transforming how citizens, lawyers, students, and researchers connect with the country’s legal system. By putting court judgments, statutes, and legal publications at everyone’s fingertips—at no cost—the platform is helping bridge the gap between complex legal processes and the everyday person who needs to understand them.
Launched in 2019, TanzLII is a collaborative initiative operated by the Judiciary of Tanzania and the Office of the Attorney General, Chief Parliamentary Draftsman. With technical support from AfricanLII and Laws.Africa, the platform aims to make Tanzanian legal materials readily accessible to the public .
Key Features
Comprehensive Legal Database
TanzLII hosts a vast collection of legal documents, including:
- Government Gazettes, providing official notices and legal updates.
- Judgments from various courts, such as the High Court and Court of Appeal .
- Legislation, encompassing acts and subsidiary laws .
Research Hub: The platform offers a dedicated section for legal research, featuring:
- Case digests, summarizing key legal decisions .
- Law Reform Commission reports, detailing ongoing legal reforms .
- Legal journals and articles, providing scholarly insights into Tanzanian law.TanzLIITanzLII
User-Friendly Interface: With a clean and intuitive design, users can easily navigate through various sections, perform advanced searches, and access documents in both English and Kiswahili.
Offline Access: The “Pocket Law” feature allows users to download legal materials for offline use, ensuring accessibility even without an internet connection.
Impact
TanzLII plays a crucial role in democratizing legal information in Tanzania. By providing free and easy access to legal documents, it empowers citizens, legal professionals, and researchers to stay informed and engaged with the country’s legal system. This initiative not only enhances legal literacy but also fosters transparency and accountability within the judiciary.
TanzLII.org exemplifies how technology can bridge the gap between the legal system and the public. Its comprehensive resources, user-centric design, and commitment to open access make it an invaluable tool for anyone interested in Tanzanian law.