Abstract:
The study aimed to assess the role of community institutions on child abuse prevention
in Moshi Municipality in Tanzania. Specifically, the study intended to examine the
role of family, education, religious institutions and child welfare officers on child
abuse prevention at Majengo and Njoro Ward in Moshi municipality. The study was
grounded on Social Learning theory developed by Canadian psychologist Albert
Bandura. Informed by constructivist philosophy and case study research design, the
study adopted a qualitative research approach, focusing on gathering rich, detailed
insights into the lived experiences and perspectives of family’s institutions,
educational and religious institutions in Moshi Municipality. A purposeful sampling
method was used to obtain the suitable respondents to engage in the study. The study
population was parents, teachers and religious leaders. The key informant interview
guide was used to collect data from 40 participants. Thematic data analysis technique
was used. The presence of child abuse in our country has significant implications to
our community and nation at large; the statistics on child abuse around the world are
extremely alarming and require immediate international attention. Child abuse has a
negative impact on children's basic welfare in both rural and urban areas, as well as
socioeconomic development. In 2022 the National Bureau of Statistics of Tanzania
(NBS) reported 7,852 cases on child abuse and that there is an increase about 12 per
cent than the previous year. The findings revealed that family play a great role in child
abuse prevention by providing and allocate resources to children, caregiving,
communication, and act as a role model. Furthermore, it was found that, education
institution is a fundamental pillar in preventing child abuse by raising awareness,
providing safe environments, and fostering early intervention. Moreover, it was found
that, religious institutions are also key players in preventing child abuse by promoting
moral values, offering support, and providing safe spaces for children within Moshi
Municipality. It is recommended that, all community institutions they should teach
children on the sign of violation and abuse which will help them to avoid all activities
that can lead to violation.
