DODOMA: TANZANIA’S Judiciary is in the process of changing the name of Resident Magistrates’ Courts to Regional Courts, a move aimed at expediting the hearing and determination of cases at the regional level
The Tanzanian Chief Justice, George Masaju, revealed today, January 13, 2026, saying the district court services are currently available across the country, with the exception of Chamwino and Mkalama districts, where court construction is ongoing, and Ikungi District, where construction is expected to begin in the upcoming financial year.
The Chief Justice made the remarks today, January 13, 2026, in Dodoma City during the General Meeting of the Association of Magistrates and Judges of Tanzania, which was officially opened by the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan.
ALSO READ: Tanzania to write ruling in Kiswahili after AG completes legal translation
He explained that despite these few challenges, Tanzania Mainland has Resident Magistrates’ Courts in all regions, a development that has significantly improved access to justice for citizens. However, the Judiciary is in the process of changing the name of Resident Magistrates’ Courts to Regional Courts, a move aimed at expediting the hearing and determination of cases at the regional level.
Chief Justice Masaju noted that in undertaking this name-change process, the Judiciary has worked closely with the Attorney General through the Legislative Drafting Department to prepare a bill for the necessary legal amendments.
He added that the implementation of these changes is expected to bring significant benefits, noting that many members of the public have already begun referring to them as Regional Courts, an indication of public demand for and understanding of the ongoing reforms in the country’s justice delivery system.