Factors impeding women from reporting domestic violence cases in Kinondoni district, Dar es salaam region

The aim of this study was to investigate the factors impeding women from reporting domestic violence cases in Kinondoni District in Dar es Salaam Region. The study was guided by four major objectives which were; firstly; To find out the causes of domestic violence against women, secondly; To find out the factors limiting women from reporting domestic violence cases; thirdly; To examine the consequences of not reporting domestic violence cases, fourthly; To examine ways of redressing the problem of unreported domestic violence cases. The study employed qualitative research approach using phenomenology design. The study use a sample of 24 participants consisting of 10 women victims of domestic violence, 6 counselors, 3 social workers, 3 members of NGO, 1 member of legal and human rights centre and 1 retired head of police gender desk. Snowball sampling was used to select the victims of domestic violence whereas purposive sampling method was used to select the informants based on their knowledge, experience and skills by virtual of their professions. The data were collected using interviews, documentary review, and focus group discussions (FGDs). Data were analyzed using thematic analysis of qualitative data analysis. The study found that the harmful traditions and culture, corruption and bribery, lack of expertise, religious beliefs, witnessing violence as a child, alcoholism and substance abuse are the main causes of domestic violence against women. The findings also revealed that the factors impeding women from reporting domestic violence cases include inefficient legal system, economic dependency, religious beliefs, traditions and beliefs and the involvement of extended family. Moreover, social economic disruption, psychological damage to women victims and children, physical injuries, educational consequences to children were revealed to be the consequences of not reporting domestic violence. On the basis of these findings, the study recommends that the government should provide proper training of the judiciary and legal professionals, health services, religious leaders and the social welfare services to become more proactive and practical in handling and dealing with reported cases of domestic violence. Furthermore, NGOs should ensure that they provide proper legal aid services for women victims of domestic violence and should also raise public awareness of women’s legal rights. Courts and police should improve their services in order to minimize the burden on victims of domestic violence and improve case outcomes. There should also be a good cooperation between government and NGOs in providing awareness campaigns, education, and community mobilization. Awareness campaigns can be done through the media, seminars, and other sources.