Effectiveness of The Tanzania Police Force Gender Desk In Combating Gender-Based Violence.

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