Access Denied: Access to Justice for Vulnerable Populations in Urban Slums in Tanzania,

Urban slums in Tanzania face significant challenges in accessing justice due to systemic barriers such as poverty, lack of documentation, and inadequate legal education. A comparative study methodology was employed, utilising surveys, interviews, and archival research methods to gather comprehensive insights into legal aid systems and judicial processes within the sampled urban slums. In both survey datasets, approximately 45% of respondents reported experiencing difficulties in accessing justice due to financial constraints and lack of awareness about their rights. Additionally, there was a notable disparity in service provision between male and female participants, with women facing more challenges related to domestic violence and child custody issues. The study underscores the urgent need for targeted legal education programmes and improved infrastructure to enhance access to justice for marginalized communities in urban slums of Tanzania. Policy recommendations include increased funding for community-based legal aid initiatives, development of gender-sensitive legal services, and strengthening of existing judicial structures to better serve vulnerable populations.