The Contributions of Police Intervention Strategies On Combating Domestic Violence in Bukoba Municipality,Kagera Region

Abstract

vii ABSTRACT In Tanzania, 44% of women experience intimate partner violence, but high barriers to reporting persist due to fear of retaliation, societal stigma, and insufficient police response. This study examined the effectiveness of police intervention strategies in combating Domestic Violence (DV) in Bukoba Municipality, Tanzania. The study used a mixed research approach and a sequential explanatory research design; data were collected through questionnaires and key-informant interviews. The study used descriptive statistics analysis for quantitative data and content analysis for qualitative data. The study shows that 36(34.3%) of respondents viewed arrest protocols, and safety planning positively in combating DV while community education initiatives and policy campaigns received moderate ratings in addressing DV. Regarding the response rate of police to reported DV, the study shows that 39(37.1%) rated it as "good" and 34(32.4%) as "fair," while arrest and detainment, strategies ranked lowest, with only 30(28.6%). Community policing was recognized as the most effective strategy, appreciated by 39(37.1%) of respondents. However, regarding barriers to reporting DV, the study identified fear of retaliation, social stigma, and logistical challenges like distance to police stations as the main challenges. Also, inadequate police support, economic dependence on abusers, and a complex legal system undermine trust in victims of DV. The study concludes that community policing and education initiatives were ranked as highly applicable strategies in combating DV. However, fear of retaliation and social stigma were identified as barriers to victims reporting DV incidences. The study recommends strengthening community policing to combat DV, with governments allocating funds to improve police resources, such as transportation, staffing, and training. This investment will enhance law enforcement capacity and build community trust, encouraging more victims to report abuse. Additionally, funding should support outreach programs, reduce stigma, and facilitate monitoring and evaluation of DV initiatives. Collaboration with NGOs will provide survivor-centered services and improve coordination. Policymakers should amend laws to treat DV as a criminal issue and ensure sustainable funding for National Plans of Action (NPAs). These efforts, alongside knowledge-sharing and capacity-building, will help reduce DV cases and shift societal norms