The Role of Police Service Devolution on Enhancing Police-Public Rapport in Sengerema District, Mwanza Region, Tanzania

This study investigated the effect of police service devolution on enhancing police-public rapport in Sengerema District, Mwanza Region - Tanzania. The research was motivated by ongoing efforts in Tanzania to decentralize public services, including policing, with the aim of improving community engagement, trust, and service delivery. A mixed research approach was employed, combining both qualitative and quantitative methods to ensure comprehensive data collection and analysis. Specifically, a descriptive survey design guided the study, allowing for systematic gathering of perceptions, experiences, and attitudes from various stakeholders. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews involving police officers, local government authorities, private security companies, non-government organizations and community members. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were thematically analysed to capture deeper insights into community-police relations. Findings revealed that devolution has moderately improved the accessibility and responsiveness of police services at the local level. Community members reported increased participation in security matters and improved communication channels with local police units. However, challenges such as limited resources, inadequate training, and unclear roles between local authorities and police services continue to hinder full realization of the intended outcomes. The study concludes that while police service devolution in Sengerema District has contributed positively to police-public rapport, its impact remains partial and context-dependent. Also the study recommended the needs for stronger policy support and adequate resources for devolved policing.