Challenges Faced By Ward Officers in Practicing Accountability and Participation: A Case of Arusha City, Tanzania

Abstract

This study observed challenges faced by Ward Officers (WOs) in practicing accountability and participation in the wards in Arusha city. The study adopted descriptive research design and used mixed method research approach. The population involved 175 ward officers in 25 wards in Arusha city from which a sample of 70 ward officers was drawn, but only 68 (97%) of them participated. Purposive sampling and simple random technique were used to obtain respondents. Data was collected through questionnaires and interview guide. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. Findings revealed that 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. The study recommended that local government authorities should 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.