Civic Leaders Awareness on Human Trafficking in Arusha City Council, Northern Tanzania

Tanzania is reported in various researches as a source, transit, and destination for human trafficking. In order to address the problem, numerous measures like enactment of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2008, The National Anti-Trafficking in Persons Plan of Action (2021-2024) and the use of civic leaders at the grassroots has been enhanced. Civic leaders are lowest representatives at country’s decentralized governance structure. However, their level of awareness of human trafficking is understudied. This study assessed civic leader's awareness of human trafficking in the Arusha City Council Northern Tanzania. The study employed a mixed-method research approach and a convergent research design. Probability and non-probability sampling techniques were used to obtain 113 respondents. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview guides. Thematic and descriptive statistics were used to analyze data. The findings revealed a limited understanding of the signs and prevalence of human trafficking, low awareness of where to report suspected cases of human trafficking, and inadequate training on how to respond to human trafficking situations effectively. We recommend comprehensive training programs to improve their awareness and response to human trafficking, establish accessible reporting mechanisms, and enhance collaboration with law enforcement agencies and anti-trafficking organizations.