About Us

Established in September 2013, ESS Creative and Legal Foundation is Tanzania's first credible and reputable justice social enterprise. It is initially focused solely on mediation to supplement government efforts to promote and enhance dispute resolution among persons involved in disputes as provided under Article 107 (2) (d) of the United Republic Of Tanzania Constitution 1977 as amended from time to time. Also, it is internationally recognized for advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16, promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice for all, and building effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels.

With over ten years of experience in resolving disputes through mediation of the persons with disabilities, Village Community Banks (VICOBA), SMEs, families and individuals, we found that most clients lack awareness of the benefits of mediation.

What sets us apart is our trusted partnership with the government justice system, which empowers community leaders as peacemakers to champion inclusivity and accessibility in mediation.

The founder and executive director is Erick Mukiza, a dedicated disability inclusion and accessibility advocate and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) professional committed to advancing inclusive justice and is a Certified Court Mediator accredited by the Tanzania Ministry of Constitutional and Legal Affairs. He is also a WIPO ADR Young professional and an Associate member of Tanzania International Arbitration Center.

He founded this organization after facing significant communication challenges during standard mediation sessions with Deaf and hard-of-hearing clients. Recognizing the urgent need for inclusivity, he pioneered the introduction of Inclusive Mediation.

In 2024, Erick was selected and completed the prestigious Professional Fellows Program on Inclusive Civic Engagement (PFP) in the United States of America. This program provided him with best practices in inclusive mediation, which he is implementing in Tanzania, demonstrating his ability to translate international learning into impactful local initiatives.

He has worked at the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) in Washington, DC, where he received mentorship in leadership and advocacy from Jasmine Bailey, Director of Operations at AAPD. There, he gained knowledge in assistive technology for inclusive communication, such as screen reading software and speech-text for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.

Our Mission

Our Vision

Mediation service is accessible to underserved communities

Our Mission

A justice social enterprise enabling accessible mediation services for underserved communities

Specific Objective

To promote and enhance alternative dispute resolution amicably and affordably among persons involved in the disputes.

Our Values

Fairness
Integrity
Confidentiality
Transparency
Impartiality
Objectivity
Neutrality

Governing Board

Board of Directors

Strategic Setting and oversight

DR. ELLY NDYETABURA

a retired ASS Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Tanzania, having served as the vice chairman of Tanzania Development Partners. Currently, he holds the position of ESS Board Chairman, where his responsibilities include strategic setting and oversight. With over 30 years of experience in international organizations within and outside Tanzania, he brings a wealth of expertise. Additionally, he has been elected as the Ward Councillor (Diwani) for Kata Ibuga in the Muleba District Council.

Civic Engagement & Inclusivity

DKT. Sophia E. Mjema

serves as the Advisor to the President of Tanzania, focusing on issues related to women and special groups, particularly those with disabilities.

Within ESS, she provides guidance on Civic Engagement, inclusivity for individuals with disabilities, and all aspects of our social corporate responsibility initiatives.

Financial Management & Tax Issues

Moraa Shoo

a Tax Adviser with over 17 years of experience in taxation, currently holds the position of Senior tax officer at the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA). She guides ESS on financial management tax-related matters.

Legal strategies

ADV. Baptista Bitaho

A retired Director of Legal Services at the Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS), Now provides counsel on legal strategies at ESS.

With a comprehensive background spanning over 20 years in the legal sector both within and outside Tanzania, he brings valuable expertise.

Founding Board

Founder & Executive Director

Erick Mukiza

Erick is a dedicated professional in the field of disability inclusion and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), committed to advancing inclusive justice. As a Permanent Certified Court Mediator accredited by the Tanzania Ministry of Constitutional and Legal Affairs, he brings extensive expertise to his practice. Furthermore, Erick is a distinguished participant of a Professional Fellowship program funded by the US Government, enriching his understanding of global best practices in inclusive mediation. With international accreditation from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) as a mediator

Co-Founder & Deputy Director

Geoffrey Bomboko

He plays a pivotal role in delivering impactful solutions. As the director of programs, Geoffrey oversees ESS's dynamic mediation and legal support services, ensuring excellence through active management of the delivery team. He is the authoritative voice for our valued customers and beneficiaries and embodies our dedication to their needs and success.

Co-Founder and M&E Lead

Francis Mawerere

Co-founder and M&E Lead at ESS. Francis spearheads the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) efforts that drive our success. Previously worked for Justice Defender formely African Prisons Project. He is responsible for providing invaluable training to our dedicated team. Beyond the metrics, Francis takes charge of fundraising for the M&E budget and other essential resources,