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I would like to introduce Consolatha
Cleophas, a tailor in Ilala market who is one of the most energetic
paralegals in our programme. All by herself she started using what
she learned in the paralegal training to conduct legal awareness
sessions in the market. I interviewed her on Tuesday and I would
like to share her story.
Why Did You Apply to Become a
Paralegal?
When I saw the
advertisements for paralegal I didn't know what a paralegal was.
Then EfG came to the market and explained which made me curious. Even
thought I didn't know a lot about it, I thought it was an opportunity to
learn. Now I really like what I am doing and I am happy to be able to
help my community know the laws and help people settle disputes.
Why did you start also teaching even
men in the markets about legal issues?
I have been
teaching both women and men traders in the market. At first I only
taught women, but then the men wanted to know as well so I started to
teach them. Mainly we talk about marriage and inheritance laws. I
discovered that men also don't know the laws. If I only teach women
it can create conflict. Men are happy about the teaching and are
even asking for publications. I'm happy to share publications with
the men because they go home and teach everyone in their household,
including women and girls about the law.
What are People
Most Surprised to Learn About in the Laws?
Most people are
surprised to learn that any property bought during a marriage is
joint property. Both women and men usually think that only men can
own property but even a housewife is entitled to property bought by
the husband during the marriage.
People are also
surprised to learn that if a woman and a man live together for two
years in a community they are recognized to be married. If they
divorce, the women has the same rights to support and property as in
a registered marriage.
Why is it important for women to
know their rights and the laws?
It is important
because laws affect the daily lives of women and they need to be able
to defend their rights. Right now married women buy land secretly and
keep the title with a friend because they are afraid of their
husbands. A lot of women suffer abuse but “only god knows”
because they don't understand their rights and where to go for help.
How has being a paralegal changed
how you feel about yourself?
Being a paralegal
has really changed my status in the market. I have discovered that I
love to teach people. Now as I go through the market both men and
women call me “Mama Law.” I am respected and people seek me out
for advice.
What has been the most exciting
thing so far about being a paralegal?
I travelled to
Dodoma and I got to meet with an established paralegal unit there.
They started just like we are starting but now those first paralegals
even train other paralegals. There are some paralegals who have gone
back to school and now hold law degrees. When I see that, I think
even one day I could become a lawyer.
Working with Equality for Growth has been an amazing experience and the nine months I have spent here were incredible. Thanks so much to everyone whose followed along and read my blog. I plan to continue to right though in a slightly different vein in London so please stay tuned for updates!
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