Factors Contributing to Crimes Among Youth in Tanzania

Abstract

This study examined the factors contributing to youth crime, focusing on both economic and social influences, as well as measures that can be implemented by Karanga Central prison to reduce crime among young offenders. The rising youth incarceration rates in Tanzania, particularly in the Kilimanjaro Region, reflect a concerning increase in crime among young, who now make up the majority of prisoners. A case study design was employed, utilising stratified and random sampling methods to select a sample of 125 respondents, including ward and village executive officers, prison officers, and youth prisoners. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected through questionnaires and interview guides. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and an Ordinary Least Squares regression model, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings revealed that youth crime is significantly influenced by economic factors such as lack of employment opportunities (coefficient 1.981, p < 0.001), increasing poverty (coefficient 1.601, p < 0.001), and limited access to quality education (coefficient 1.225, p = 0.012). Social factors also played a significant role, with family dysfunction (coefficient 0.0021, p = 0.0105), peer influence (coefficient 0.3695, p = 0.0012), sexual abuse (coefficient 0.0190, p < 0.001), and substance abuse (coefficient 0.3795, p = 0.014) all contributing to youth crime. In terms of reducing overcrowding among youth prisoners, the results strongly supported policy reforms, including reducing mandatory minimum sentences, improving pre-trial detention procedures, enhancing access to education and vocational training, developing rehabilitation and re-entry programs, and promoting alternative sentencing. The study concluded that economic and social factors such as unemployment, poverty, lack of education, family dysfunction, and substance abuse significantly contribute to youth crime. Addressing these issues, alongside targeted interventions, policy reforms, and rehabilitative programs, is essential to reduce incarceration rates and foster a more supportive environment for at-risk youth. The study recommends that the government reform judicial policies by revisiting mandatory minimum sentencing laws and offering alternative sentencing options for non-violent offenders. Additionally, increased funding for poverty alleviation and education programs is necessary to reduce youth imprisonment rates.