Civil Society In Tanzania: An Analytical Review Of Sources Of Information

Abstract

This paper is an examination of the profile of civil societies in Tanzania and analytical review of sources of information relating to these societies. Data for research were obtained from secondary sources, self-administered questionnaires, interviews and document searches. Secondary sources of data were gathered from library and documentation centers in Dar es salaam, Arusha and Mwanza. Questionnaires were sent to various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). Interviews were conducted with key informants who are involved in civil society issues. Document searches were carried out to identify and list items on civil society. Data processing and analysis included the preparation of abstracts and creation of computerized database of civil society in Tanzania. The findings show, among others, that forty two percent of all the civil societies surveyed were established and registered in the period between 1997 and 1999; ninety six percent of all the civil societies were local as opposed to four percent which were international. Forty three percent of all civil societies were located in Dar es Salaam. Sixty percent of civil societies deal with social development programmes. Additionally, results show that most civil societies had disproportionate staffing problems; and sixty six percent depended on international sources of funding while 46% reported that they secured funds from both local and foreign sources of financing.

University of Dar Es Salaam Library Journal Vol. 9 (1) 2007: pp. 84-95