The categories of rights contained in the constitutions of the United Republic of Tanzania (1977), Kenya (2010), and Rwanda (2015) can be broadly categorized as follows:
1. Civil and political rights: These include rights such as the right to life, liberty, and security of person, freedom of expression, assembly, and association, and the right to participate in political processes.
2. Economic, social, and cultural rights: These include rights such as the right to education, healthcare, housing, and social security, as well as the right to work and to enjoy the benefits of scientific progress.
3. Equality and non-discrimination: These include provisions prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or other grounds, and promoting equality before the law.
4. Indigenous rights: Some constitutions also include provisions protecting the rights of indigenous peoples, such as the right to land and natural resources, cultural preservation, and self-determination.
5. Environmental rights: Some constitutions also include provisions recognizing the right to a clean and healthy environment, and promoting sustainable development.
When comparing the constitutions of Tanzania, Kenya, and Rwanda, some similarities and differences can be observed.
- All three constitutions contain provisions protecting fundamental human rights and freedoms, such as the right to life, liberty, and security of person, freedom of expression, and equality before the law.
- The Kenyan constitution (2010) is considered one of the most progressive in Africa, as it includes a comprehensive Bill of Rights that guarantees a wide range of civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. It also includes provisions on devolution, gender equality, and land rights.
- The Rwandan constitution (2015) is known for its emphasis on national unity and reconciliation, as well as its provisions promoting gender equality and women's empowerment. It also includes provisions on decentralization and local governance.
- The Tanzanian constitution (1977) has been criticized for its limitations on political freedoms and civil liberties, as well as its lack of provisions on gender equality and indigenous rights. However, it has been amended several times to address some of these shortcomings.
Overall, while all three constitutions contain provisions protecting fundamental rights and freedoms, the Kenyan and Rwandan constitutions are considered more progressive and comprehensive in their approach to human rights and governance.