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New police data shows steep rise in crimes against minors
Crimes against children that saw the most significant rise were rape (1,864 cases) and sodomy (902 cases). PHOTO | FILE
What you need to know:
- From January to December 2023, 13,748 crimes were reported compared to 11,118 in 2022, representing a 23.7 percent increase
Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is grappling with a disturbing rise in crimes against children, despite efforts from the police force on public safety.
From January to December 2023, a total of 15,301 victims of child gender-based violence and abuse were reported, compared to 12,163 victims in the same period in 2022.
This marks an increase of 3,138 victims, equivalent to 25.8 percent. According to the report, victims of gender-based violence and abuse were most reported in the regions of Arusha (1,089), Morogoro (976), Tanga (884), Kinondoni (789), and Mjini Magharibi (788).
These statistics are part of the criminal analysis section in the 2023 crime report by the Tanzanian Police Force. Major criminal offenses include crimes against persons, property crimes, and crimes against societal morals.
Sodomy cases saw the highest increase, surging by 56.9 percent, from 1,586 victims in 2022 to 2,488 in 2023.
Recent weeks have seen reports of child disappearances in Dar es Salaam, putting parents and schools on high alert and prompting additional measures to ensure children's safety. Parents are now forced to be extra vigilant to protect their young ones.
The concern was exacerbated by a recent incident in Mbagala, Temeke District, where Yusra Mussa, a first-grade student at Mbagala Kuu Primary School, was killed, allegedly with some of her body parts, including a kidney, removed.
Police in Dar es Salaam reported that since March, it had received only four reports from parents in Mbagala and Temeke. Three of these incidents resulted in the deaths of children who were subjected to violence. However, police deny that these children had their organs removed.
To understand why this trend is escalating, experts in psychology and social welfare provided critical insights when they spoke separately to The Citizen on Tuesday.
A child psychologist and head of Ebeneza Children’s Home in Ifakara, Morogoro Region, Dr Sarah Kimaro, pointed to the impact of stress from societal and economic factors.
“When families are under significant stress, it can manifest in increased violence, particularly against the most vulnerable, such as children,” she said.
Dr Kimaro also highlighted the role of moral decay in society.
“The erosion of moral values and the lack of effective socialisation are contributing factors. Children are no longer taught the fundamental principles of respect and empathy, leading to a rise in violent behaviour,” she added.
“We must work collectively to address the root causes of these crimes. This includes improving the socio-economic conditions of families, reinforcing moral education, and ensuring that children feel safe and supported.”
Social welfare expert John Mushi underscored the importance of community vigilance.
“Community-based programmes can play a vital role in preventing these crimes. Neighbours and community members should be empowered to look out for suspicious activities and report them promptly,” Mr Mushi said.
He added that the use of witchcraft and use of superstition is to the large extent associated with this trend of violence and the kidnapping of children.
“People are desperate due to the harsh living conditions. Many engage in illegal activities, and witch doctors see this as an opportunity to lure people for their own benefit. These criminals, when caught, should be compelled to reveal who is giving them instructions.
“The government, civil society, and communities must collaborate to create a safe environment for our children. Only through joint efforts can we reverse this troubling trend,” Mr Mushi added.
As Tanzania approaches elections, some experts believe that political instability could be exacerbating these issues.
“During election periods, there is often an increase in social tensions and a breakdown in community structures. This can create an environment where crimes against children become more prevalent,” said a political analyst from the University of Dodoma, Mr Joseph Matiko.
The rising trend of child crimes in Tanzania is alarming and demands immediate action.
Strengthening community-based programmes, enhancing educational initiatives, and improving law enforcement responses are critical steps.
The 2023 crime report is seen as a stark reminder of the urgent need to protect children.
The country has formulated the Law of the Child Act, which is an act to provide for reform and consolidation of laws relating to children, to stipulate rights of the child and to, promote, protect and maintain the welfare of a child with a view to giving effect to international and regional convention on the rights of the child.
