Abstract:
This study investigates the role of community policing in maintaining public
safety in West “B” District, Urban West Region of Zanzibar. It evaluates the
effectiveness of community policing initiatives, their impact on safety, and
challenges they face. A qualitative case study approach was used with a sample
of 64 participants, whereby 30 respondents were selected for interview to
provide an in-depth information through Grounded theory which emphasises the
collection of data on the study to reach saturation level, they include; 2
commanding officers, 4 community police officers, 4 ward executive officers, 20
community members, and 34 leaders of community police groups involved in 3
focus group discussions (10 -12 participants each). Data was collected through
semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, then analysed using
thematic analysis approach. The findings of this study shown that community
policing is well-established and has significantly contributed to public safety in
the district. There is a high level of awareness and perceived effectiveness
among community members, police officers, and ward executives, along with
stronger police-community relationships based on trust and collaboration.
However, challenges such as community resistance, lack of trust, insufficient
resources, and inconsistent police commitment hinder the full potential of these
initiatives. The study recommends enhancing community engagement,
improving resource allocation, and ensuring consistent police support to
strengthen and sustain community policing efforts further.
