The Practice of Community Policing In Sustaining Public Safety

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.