A new project aims to strengthen collaboration and trust between police and communities.
In recent years, Tanzania has made significant strides in community policing, particularly through an innovative model named “Polisi Jamii.” This initiative aims to bridge the gap between law enforcement and local communities by fostering a collaborative environment where citizens feel empowered to engage with police. By prioritizing transparency and open communication, the project seeks to build a foundation of trust that is essential for successful crime prevention and community safety.
This approach has not only reduced crime rates but has also fostered confidence in engagement between law enforcers and local communities. However, challenges such as theft, burglary, gender-based violence, and land disputes continue to plague the resource-rich southern regions of Mtwara, Lindi, and Ruvuma. To combat these issues, the Tanzanian government has prioritized police reforms aimed at enhancing community engagement and accountability.
On February 18, 2025, a pivotal initiative known as the ‘Jamii Shirikishi Katika Uzalendo na Ulinzi’ project was launched in Lindi. Funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and implemented by Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Tanzania, this project aims to strengthen the bond between police and communities, promoting a safer and more harmonious society. The project specifically targets the Lindi and Ruvuma regions, with a keen focus on the Nyasa and Nachingwea districts. It emphasizes the involvement of women, youth, and community police officers in the fight against crime and insecurity.
During the launch, the Ambassador of the Netherlands highlighted the Ubuntu philosophy, stating, “I am because you are, and you are because we are.” This philosophy underlines the importance of cooperation between the governments of the Netherlands and Tanzania. The project is designed to drive social change and community development, building on the positive impacts of previous initiatives in Southern Tanzania.
The launch event featured various activities aimed at fostering partnerships, including the distribution of mobile phones to police officers and representative champions from 10 selected wards. This initiative is expected to enhance real-time reporting of security threats, thereby improving response times and coordination among law enforcement and community members. Lindi District Commissioner, Hon. Victoria Mwanziva, emphasized the need to break cultural barriers that discourage crime reporting. She noted that societal beliefs often lead to private settlements of criminal activities, which the project aims to change by encouraging closer collaboration between communities and police.
DCP Henry Mwaibambe, the Deputy Commissioner of Police and Head of Community Policing Desk, highlighted the success of community policing efforts, stating that crime has decreased by 35% since the establishment of community police officers. He stressed the importance of community involvement in fostering a society that values truth and rejects misinformation, which is crucial for reducing social conflicts.
The successful launch of the Jamii Shirikishi Katika Uzalendo na Ulinzi project has garnered extensive media coverage, with over 16 local media outlets reporting on the initiative. The Embassy of the Netherlands has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting sustainable community security initiatives.
The Jamii Shirikishi Katika Uzalendo na Ulinzi project represents a significant step forward in enhancing community collaboration through community policing in Southern Tanzania. The ultimate goal is to drive positive change and further reduce crime rates across the region. By fostering trust, promoting shared responsibility, and breaking down cultural barriers, this initiative aims to create a safer and more secure environment for all residents. As the project unfolds, it holds the promise of transforming community-police relations and contributing to the overall development of the region.
GPF is committed to building sustainable peace through grassroots initiatives that empower communities and foster collaboration. By promoting shared responsibility and actively involving individuals in the fight against crime and social conflicts, the project highlights the vital role of community collaboration in creating harmonious societies, ultimately contributing to the broader mission of establishing lasting peace and security in regions facing similar challenges.
