EVALUATION OF GOOD GOVERNANCE PRACTICES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF WARDS IN ARUSHA CITY COUNCIL

Abstract

This study evaluated good governance practices by Ward Officers (WOs) for development of Wards in Arusha City Council (ACC). Specifically, the study determined the application of effectiveness, efficiency and broad consensus in wards, find out challenges faced by WOs in practicing accountability and participation, examined extent of practicing equity, inclusiveness and responsiveness in the wards and assessed extent of the practicing rule of law and transparency in the wards in ACC. The World Bank good governance and development theory guided the study. The study adopted descriptive research design and used mixed research approach. Purposive sampling and simple random technique were used to obtain 68 respondents. Instruments of data collection were questionnaires and interview guide. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, and qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. Findings revealed that, although WOs in the study area collect taxes and other tariffs, give feedback for any fund allocated to wards, making good use of the natural resources; there exist corruption in wards, citizens do not attend meetings regularly and decisions do not observe majority. Challenges faced by WOs in practicing accountability and participation in their wards includes: little turn up of citizens in political election, lack of interests to participate in decision making, misuse of resources and environmental pollution, corruption and insufficient funds. It was also revealed that WOs practice equity, inclusiveness and responsiveness in wards. Furthermore, findings show that WOs practices the rule of law and transparency by ensuring citizens are aware of their rights. Also, utilization of resources is communicated to citizens, ward workers understand and follow rule of law, regulations and procedures for development are well communicated to all citizens. However, there is lack of transparency about tenders and projects undertaken in wards and there is limited access of ward information to citizens. The study concluded that, WOs should yield results that meet needs of the citizens while making the best use of resources. People in wards should directly participate in the formulation of policies and decision-making. The study recommended local government authorities to educate its people on the importance of participating on different development activities from planning to implementation, and WOs should ensure ward information are accessible by the public.