Abstract:
This study aimed to assess the determinants of criminal activities among youth in Tanzania:
A case of Temeke District, Dar Es Salaam. Specifically, this study sought to determine
youths’ perception on the criminal activities, to identify factors leading youths into criminal
activities and to develop strategies for mitigating the rate of youths’ involvement in criminal
activities in Temeke District. The research employed a case study design and data was
gathered from youths who participated and were impacted by criminal activities, and police
officers using both quantitative (questionnaires) and qualitative (interviews) methods. The
target population included youths aged 16-30 and district police officers. A sample size of
100 respondents was selected through purposive and snowball sampling. Descriptive
statistics and content analysis were used for data analysis with the aid of SPSS version 26.
Secondary data sources were also utilized to complement primary data, ensuring a thorough
and insightful study. This study unveiled that youths have a perception of high criminal
activities in the area as well as aware of the prevalence of criminal activities. Findings
revealed that factors contributing to youth involvement in criminal activities include lack of
employment opportunities, lack of positive role models, peer pressure, desire for material
possessions, substance abuse, broken families, and lack of parental guidance. Moreover,
this study indicated that providing employment opportunities, addressing poverty and living
conditions, raising awareness about the consequences of criminal activities, strengthening
community engagement and establishing mentorship programs will mitigate the rate of youth
involvement in criminal activities. The study concluded that youth perceive high criminal
activities, multiple factors contribute to youth involvement in crime, and the need for diverse
strategies to foster a positive youth development environment. This study recommends that
future studies should extend their investigation to explore factors influencing youth crime in
other regions or districts of the country.