Joseph Isangura
Tanzania has earned a spot among the top ten African nations recognized for having professional police forces, according to a recent report by Afrobarometer.
The study, conducted across 39 countries from 2021 to 2023, highlights that 53% of Tanzanian respondents view their police as professional and respectful of citizens’ rights.
Tanzania shares the ninth position with Mali, reflecting a positive perception of law enforcement in the country. The report ranks Burkina Faso at the top, with 68% of citizens rating their police highly, followed by Morocco (64%) and Benin (61%).
Despite these achievements, the report underscores significant challenges facing law enforcement across Africa. On average, only one in three Africans feels their police operate professionally. Corruption, excessive use of force, and lack of accountability remain common issues that erode public trust in many countries.
Concerns Over Corruption and Accountability
The Afrobarometer findings indicate that corruption is a persistent problem, with 36% of those seeking police assistance reporting they had to pay bribes. Additionally, 37% of respondents who encountered police in other circumstances also reported paying bribes. These practices undermine citizens’ confidence and create barriers to accessing justice.
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Use of Force and Public Distrust
Another issue highlighted is the excessive use of force. The report reveals that 38% of Africans believe their police frequently resort to undue force when managing protests, and 42% think the same in dealing with suspected criminals. Such actions contribute to fear and resentment, further straining relations between law enforcement and communities.
Fewer than half of Africans expressed trust in their police forces, with 29% suspecting officers of engaging in criminal activities. This perception creates an environment where many citizens feel unsafe or reluctant to approach the police for assistance.
Tanzania’s Position and Way Forward
While Tanzania’s ranking among the top ten is an encouraging sign, it also highlights areas for improvement. Nearly half of Tanzanian respondents still have reservations about the professionalism of the police force. Addressing concerns about corruption and ensuring transparency will be critical for further building public trust.
The Afrobarometer report calls for reforms across the continent to promote transparency, accountability, and community-focused policing. For Tanzania, these steps could help strengthen its position as a leader in law enforcement professionalism while ensuring that citizens feel protected and respected by those tasked with their safety.
This recognition presents an opportunity for Tanzania to lead by example in addressing systemic issues and setting a benchmark for others to follow in Africa.
