Street level bureaucracy and service delivery in local government authorities in Tanzania: the case of Mvomero District and Moshi Municipal Councils
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Date
2019
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
This study examined the role of street level bureaucrats (SLBs) regarding their ability to cope with deterrents of effective service delivery in Mvomero District and Moshi Municipal Councils in Tanzania. Although decentralization reforms of 1990s emphasized on the interplay between SLBs, citizens and policy makers to ensure effective service delivery, literature review showed that service delivery in Local Government Authorities (LGAs) is largely ineffective. This study was carried out to unearth how SLBs operate to cope with deterrents of effective service delivery. The study employed two theories, agency theory specifically for gaining an insight into dynamics of central-local relations and the SLB theory to guide an understanding on how SLBs cope with the status quo. The study was guided by three specific objectives: to examine deterrents of effective service delivery, to determine the manner SLBs operate to cope with deterrents of effective service delivery and to determine the manner SLBs' operations limit effectiveness of central government control over social fields. Methodologically, the study used a phenomenological approach, spatial quasi-design, thematic analysis, in-depth interviews, semi structured interviews, documentary review and observation.
It was found out that SLBs cope with service delivery deterrents by rationalizing resources as well as simplifying, routinizing and modifying their work environment. It is concluded that although SLBs encounter scarce resources, still they can deliver effective services if they will be intrinsically and extrinsically motivated. It is recommended that the government should motivate SLBs in terms of their mind set and civic duties to increase their working morale and commitment.
Description
Available in print form, Eat Africana Collection, Dr. Wilbert Chagula Library,(THS EAF HD38.4.T34K358)
Keywords
Bureaucracy, Public Administration, Local government, Mvomero district, Moshi municipal council, Tanzania
Citation
Kamugisha, D. (2019) Street level bureaucracy and service delivery in local government authorities in Tanzania: the case of Mvomero District and Moshi Municipal Councils. Doctorial dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam.