Impact of Government Construction Projects on Local Community Development in Tanzania

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.