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Speeches 2006

DHRF Grantee Commission for Human Rights & Good Governance (CHRAGG) Resource Books Dedication

Venue: Haki House, Dar-es-Salaam

December 4, 2006

Remarks by Ambassador Michael L. Retzer



Habari za asubuhi!
Honorable Vice Chairman Mohamed Ramia Abdiwawa
Mabibi na mabwana
Asanteni sana kwa kuwa hapa leo.

I am glad to be here with you and I appreciate the opportunity to visit the Commission for Human Rights & Good Governance. This morning, I would like to hand over 333 books purchased with the U.S. Embassy's Democracy and Human Rights Fund (DHRF). The goal of the DHRF is to support human rights and democracy by supporting activities that promote political pluralism and human and civil rights. It also provides a mechanism to support and strengthen democratic institutions and civil society, as well as the adoption an adherence to democratic values and practices throughout Africa.

This unique outreach program enjoys a history of cooperation with Tanzanian communities. From Arusha to Zanzibar, DHRF grants have contributed to indigenous organizations for small, focused, high-impact related activities.

Today, the U.S. Government is providing legal and justice resource books valued at approximately 27.5 million shillings. Through the contribution of these books, I would like to emphasize that the United States shares the Commission's goal of improving education in Tanzania. These books in particular will become a resource for a deeper understanding of the law, and how strong legal systems are a pillar of a true democracy. I trust there are some lawyers in this room, and hopefully some future lawyers as well will come into contact with these books.

I am pleased that the American people are able to make this important contribution to the Commission for Human Rights & Good Governance. We wish the Commission every success in educating Tanzania’s leaders of tomorrow.

Asanteni sana.