Abstract:
This study aimed to assess the impact of government construction projects on local
community development in Arusha City, Tanzania. Focusing on infrastructure,
social, and utility projects, the study evaluated their contributions to community
well-being. Guided by positivism research philosophy, a quantitative research
approach was adopted, employing a cross-sectional research design. The target
population included 61 individuals who were directly involved in the projects, such
as Planning officers, community development officers, Ward executive officers,
from which a sample size of 61 respondents was drawn using total sampling (census)
method. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and analysed using
descriptive and inferential statistics, including multiple regression analysis with the
help of SPSS (Version 25) software. The regression results indicated a strong
positive relationship between construction projects and community development.
Key findings revealed that infrastructure improvements, such as roads and public
facilities, significantly enhanced transportation, access to services, and social
cohesion. Social projects, especially in education and healthcare, contributed to
human capital development, while utilities projects like clean water, sanitation, and
electricity had positive effects on public health, safety, and economic growth. The
study concluded that strategic investments in government-led construction projects
are pivotal in enhancing sustainable community development and recommended
continued emphasis on monitoring, evaluation, and community participation in
project planning and implementation.
