Abstract:
This study explores the effectiveness of the Tanzania Police Force Gender Desk in
combating gender-based violence in Rorya District. The study examined the
community perception, effectiveness and challenge facing Gender Desk. Rorya
District was used as a case study because it has several gender desks and it has many
forms of violence incidences compared to other districts in the Mara Region.
Qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis methods were used, whereby
questionnaires and unstructured interviews were employed. Moreover, the study was
conducted by using convergent research design to draw different perception of the
participant and used descriptive analysis methody on quantitative data from a
questionaire survey and thematic analysis assessed the qualitative data required from
interview and documentary review about the study’s specific objectives. The study
findings indicate that even though the Police Gender Desk in Rorya District was
formed to save the victims of gender-based violence who might not be aware of their
rights, either because of ignorance, religion of fear, and cultural norms. The majority
of victims reported getting good services and support from gender desk police officers.
Participants interviewed reported that the police gender desk at Rorya District provides
good services to the victims however they had not been effective in combating gender-
based violence due to various challenges which include limited resources and funding,
fear of reporting incidence, ignorance, legal access, and traditional and cultural norms.
The study recommends the Government, NGOs, and other stakeholders provide
adequate knowledge to members that helps them to disclose their problems and hence
get assistance
