Ms Anna Henga | Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
LLB (University of Dar es Salaam), PDBA (Institute of Finance Management), MSc (Mzumbe and Bradford), PHD Honoris Causa (Luncent University, UK)
Previous experience
Dr. Anna Aloys Henga is the Executive Director of the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) www.humanrights.or.tz, an iconic Human Rights Organization in Tanzania and East Africa. As the Executive Director of the LHRC since July 2018, Dr. Henga has spearheaded significant advocacy and reform initiatives across Tanzania. She is a distinguished advocate of the High Court of Tanzania and a prominent leader in human rights, women’s rights, good governance, corporate governance, and social empowerment.
Dr. Henga possesses an extensive academic background, including a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Dar es Salaam, a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration from the Institute of Finance Management, and an MSc in Development Policy and Practice for Civil Society from Mzumbe and Bradford University. Her academic pursuits are complemented by a Diploma in Gender from the Sweden Institute of Public Administration and a Diploma in Theology and Ministry from Mahanaim School of Ministry and Theology. Her career within the Legal and Human Rights Centre has been varied and impactful, with roles such as Director of Advocacy and Reforms and Programme Coordinator for Constitutional Reforms. Prior positions include serving as a Legal Officer and Gender Focal Person, where she also acted as an HIV peer educator.
Dr. Henga is a prolific author and researcher, contributing to works such as "30 years of Multipartyism in Tanzania" and participating in projects like the book "Sengondo Mvungi: Breathing the Constitution." Her scholarly contributions extend to numerous dissertations and articles focused on law and human rights.
Her achievements have earned her numerous awards, including the International Women of Courage Award in 2019. Dr. Henga was also honored with an Honoris Causa PhD from Lucent University in the UK, recognizing her contributions to human rights and governance.
An active professional member, Dr. Henga belongs to the Tanganyika Law Society, Tanzania Women Lawyers Association, and Amnesty International. She also serves as the Chairperson of the Tanzania Network of Legal Aid Providers and is a certified board member with the Institute of Directors (IoDT) and the Eastern and Southern African Management Institute (ESAMI).
Dr. Henga’s community engagement is profound, serving as a part-time Associate Pastor and a mentor to emerging directors and university students. Her leadership and mentorship have greatly impacted the professional and personal development of many young leaders in Tanzania.
Dr. Anna Henga's biography reflects her dedication to justice, equity, and the empowerment of vulnerable communities through her professional endeavors, academic contributions, and community service.
Academic fields of interest:
Human Rights, Women Rights, Civic engagement and Democracy
Position prior to the programme
Executive Director - Legal and Human Rights Centre, Tanzania