The LRF was established in 1984 to meet the need to improve accessibility of legal and information services to all sections of the population. The Legal Resources Foundation (LRF) believes that facilitating access to the legal system can advance human rights in Zimbabwe. Disadvantaged people, particularly women can be empowered to assert their rights through the legal system when they are provided with information and advice.
The LRF reaches their target groups through legal education and legal services. Underprivileged people get free advice and help from lawyers and paralegals in 25 offices in 9 of Zimbabwe's 10 provinces. The LRF also facilitates workshops for community leaders and teachers -- who play multiplier roles in the community - service providers such as prison officers. Through conversation cafes and community outreaches trained paralegals offer a platform for people, many in the rural areas, to talk about legal topics which affect their daily lives.
The Legal Publication Unit within the LRF provides substantial and practical information about 28 different legal topics (e.g. Wills, Declaration of Rights, Birth Certificates, HIV/AIDS and the Law) in English, Shona and Ndebele. The pamphlets and flyers are distributed through our workshops, offices, network partners and venues frequented by the public, such as hospitals and police stations. The unit also publishes legal textbooks, law reports and other reference titles for the legal profession. This all combines to make the LRF a major legal hub in Zimbabwe for assisting the marginalised as well as legal practitioners.
