Effectiveness of Community Policing Initiatives in Reduction of Crimes in Tanzania:

Abstract

Crime is a crtical problem in cities areas in Tanzania such as Arusha region. One of the steps taken to reduce crimes in Arusha region is implementation of community policing programs in areas such as Arusha and Arumeru Districts. The general objective of this study was to examine effectiveness of community policing in reduction of crimes in Arumeru District. The study was guided by three specific objectives: to examine community policing activities implemented to prevent crimes in Arumeru District, determine the role of community policing in reduction and prevention of Crimes in Arumeru District, and examine challenges that affect community policing in crime prevention in Arumeru District. The study applied a mixed-method research approach and descriptive research design. The study was based on the population 30, 412 households of five wards of Arumeru District. A sample size of 108 respondents was involved. The sample comprised of the head of community policing in Arusha Region (n=1), the head of police at Arumeru District (n=1), ward police officers (n=5), members of Neighbourhood Watch Groups (n=5), and individual citizens (n=96). The study applied key informant interviews, surveys and documents in data collection. Analysis of data was conducted through thematic analysis and frequencies and percentages. The study findings identified six community policing activities (i) community relations projects, (ii) formulation Neighborhood Watch Group (NWGs), (iii) Provision of Community Education, (iv) Conflict Resolution, (v) Developing Strategies for Crime Prevention, and (vi) Reporting Suspicious Activities. The study findings showed that most cited roles of community in crime prevention and reduction included restoring peace and harmony (84.4%), identification of criminal activities (80.2%), reduction of property theft (67.7%), conflict resolution (54.2%), building trust (47.9%), and reduction of violence against women and children (17.1%). The study findings from the interviews identified three challenges facing community policing namely shortage of working facilities, lack of awareness among stakeholders and negative socio-cultural beliefs. Based on the study findings it is concludes that despite its contributions in reducing crimes, community policing initiatives face challenges such as shortage of working facilities, limited stakeholder awareness and negative cultural norms. The study recommends provision of awareness and orientation about objectives and benefits of community policing activities to different stakeholders such as citizens, and government officials.