The Role of Community Based Initiatives In Mitigating Drug Abuse in Tanzania

Abstract

v ABSTRACT This study assessed the role of community-based initiatives in reducing drug abuse in Arusha Municipality. It focused on identifying existing initiatives, evaluating their effectiveness, and identify challenges in the implementation. Employing case study design with a qualitative approach, the research target population of 392,007, from which the researcher selected sample of 25 respondents through purposive, convenience and snowball sampling techniques. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Sampling methods involved convenience, snowball, and purposive sampling. Ethical considerations such as obtaining informed consent and ensuring confidentiality were strictly adhered to throughout the research. The study found that community-based initiatives in Arusha Municipality address drug abuse through various strategies, including community outreach, youth support, education programs, client counseling, and drug awareness campaigns. Outreach activities involve home visits and workshops, youth programs offer after-school activities, and education initiatives provide resistance skills and support to keep children in school. Client counseling provides personalized addiction support, and awareness campaigns led by organizations like YCR and DCEA use media and seminars to promote drug abuse prevention. The study concluded that while these initiatives collectively enhance public awareness and community commitment to combating drug abuse, challenges such as limited resources, stigma, and coordination issues impact their effectiveness. Community policing and treatment centers, such as those at Mount Meru Hospital, play crucial roles in reducing drug-related crimes and supporting recovery. To improve effectiveness, the study recommends increasing funding, addressing stigma through public education, and enhancing coordination among stakeholders.