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.

We expanded our services in May 2017 to include legal representation.

With over 10 years of experience in resolving disputes through mediation and legal representation of people with hearing impairment, Village Community Banks (VICOBA), SMEs, individuals, and families, we found that most clients lack awareness of the benefits of mediation.

What sets us apart from the rest is that we have trust and partnership with the government justice system and empower community leaders to resolve disputes of people, including individuals with disabilities so that they can access legal justice through ADR channels. In addition, we operate as a not-for-profit social enterprise, unlike other NGOs in the Tanzanian Justice sector, which are typically non-profit organizations (not social enterprises).

The founder and executive director is Erick Mukiza who started this organization after his mother Grace, a primary school teacher became a victim of not accessing justice affordably.

Erick underwent training on practical aspects of commercial mediation law and practice from the Tanzania International Arbitration Center and is accredited by the Ministry of Constitutional and Legal Affairs as a Permanent Certified Mediator. He is a spring 2024 Professional Fellow of the Inclusive Civic Engagement US-government funded exchange program. He is an Associate Member of the Tanzania International Arbitration Centre. He is also a Catalyst 2030 member and International Mediator certified by WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organisation).

Our Mission

Our Vision

Mediation service is accessible to underserved communities

Our Mission

A justice social enterprise enabling accessible mediation services for underserved communities

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 ADR inclusion. 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,