Date of publication:
08/21/2025
United Republic of Tanzania (the)
Do domestic laws and policies provide mechanisms to identify unaccompanied and separated children?
Assessment by population
Analysis
Tanzania’s domestic laws acknowledge the importance of family unity and the welfare of children, particularly in the context of refugees and asylum seekers. The Refugees Act of 1998 recognizes the need to safeguard family ties and protect vulnerable individuals, including children. In practice, this legal framework prioritizes the well-being of children by ensuring that their best interests are considered, especially in cases where they are separated or unaccompanied.
However, while the law underscores the importance of family unity, explicit procedures for identifying and tracing the families of separated or unaccompanied children are not comprehensively outlined within the existing refugee legislation. In practice, the identification and family tracing processes are often conducted through cooperation with international organizations such as the UNHCR and other humanitarian actors who specialize in child protection. These agencies play a significant role in establishing contact with families, providing necessary support, and coordinating efforts to reunite children with their families.
Related provisions of domestic law or policy
The Law of the Child Act
- Year: 2009
- Type: Domestic law
- Rights Category: Family life
- Link to external source: http://parliament.go.tz/polis/uploads/bills/acts/1452143878-ActNo-21-2009.pdf
Legal provision
Section 6.1 - Right to Name and Nationality
A child shall have a right to a name, nationality and to know his biological parents and extended family.
Section 7.1 - Right to Grow Up with Parents
A child shall be entitled to live with his parents or guardians.