Assessing the Role of Social Workers in Addressing Early Marriages in Shinyanga District Tanzania.

Juma, Adam Forogo (2025) Assessing the Role of Social Workers in Addressing Early Marriages in Shinyanga District Tanzania. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

This study examines the role of social workers in addressing early marriages in Shinyanga District, Tanzania. Despite legal frameworks prohibiting child marriage, socio-cultural and economic factors perpetuate the practice, making it a persistent challenge. Guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory, the research adopted a qualitative case study design to capture in-depth insights. A purposive sampling procedure was employed to select 30–40 participants, including social workers, community leaders, early married women, parents, and representatives of NGOs. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions, allowing for both individual experiences and collective perceptions to be explored. Thematic analysis, supported by NVivo software, was used to identify and interpret patterns within the data. The findings reveal that social workers play a crucial role in sensitizing communities, promoting girls’ education, and providing alternative economic opportunities to families. However, their efforts are hindered by cultural resistance, inadequate financial resources, weak law enforcement, and limited institutional support. The study recommends strengthening legal enforcement, increasing funding for social work initiatives, engaging religious and traditional leaders in awareness campaigns, and expanding vocational training programs for young girls. A multi-sectoral approach involving government agencies, NGOs, and local stakeholders is necessary to create sustainable change and protect girls’ rights. Keywords: Social Work, Early Marriage, Shinyanga District, Qualitative Case Study, Child Protection

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