Why crime rates have increased in Zanzibar

Dar es Salaam. The rise in crime incidents in Zanzibar has been attributed to several factors, including population growth that outpaces income-generating opportunities.

Stakeholders suggest that increased crime rates may also be due to heightened awareness and a greater willingness among residents to report crimes.

The Zanzibar Abstract Report for 2023, released by the Office of the Chief Government Statistician (OCGS), reveals a significant increase in crime. Property crimes surged from 1,947 incidents in 2022 to 9,345 in 2023, while crimes against individuals rose from 1,421 to 2,049 during the same period.

Property crimes have seen dramatic increases, with thefts rising from 344 cases in 2022 to 7,075 in 2023. Crop theft also rose from 267 to 702 cases, and motorcycle thefts increased from 176 to 334 incidents.

Among crimes against individuals, reports of rape involving girls under 18 have climbed from 585 to 824 cases, and assaults have grown from 125 to 376 incidents.

Economist Oscar Mkude comments that the increase in reported crimes may be partly due to improved reporting practices, facilitated by police education and media awareness.

However, he also attributes the rise to a disparity between population growth and economic opportunities.

 “A lack of economic activities might push individuals toward criminal behavior,” Mkude says. He also notes that the prevalence of theft has hindered individual progress, as people are forced to spend money on stolen goods instead of investing in productive activities.

Current Situation

The 2023 Crime Report for Tanzania shows an increase in crime incidents both on the mainland and the islands. The report cites a lack of formal income-generating activities as a key factor contributing to the rise in crime.

Other factors include poor economic conditions, moral decline, urbanization, globalization, significant disparities in living standards, and unemployment.

For the youth, the desire to own property has been linked to crimes such as theft and vandalism.

To combat these issues, the police are promoting legitimate entrepreneurial activities and advocating for financial institutions to lower bureaucratic barriers and interest rates on loans. They also emphasize the importance of public education on entrepreneurship and timely crime reporting.

In addressing crimes such as rape and defilement, the police plan to collaborate with religious institutions and other stakeholders to dispel superstitious beliefs and provide safety education in schools.

This initiative, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology and the Ministry of Community Development, Gender, Women, and Special Groups, aims to help children recognize signs of malicious intent.

Economic analyst Dr. Balozi Morwa attributes the rise in crime to poor rule-of-law administration, corruption, and inadequate crime prevention measures. He notes that persistent crime undermines productivity and economic growth.

“If production ceases, economic growth halts,” Dr. Morwa explains. He recommends continued emphasis on family planning to ensure responsible parenting and improved societal stability.