Administrative Decentralization by Devolution in Local Government at Ward Level: A Case of Choma District, Southern Province

Abstract

The study sought to analyze administrative decentralization by devolution in Local Government at ward level in Choma District, Southern Province using a qualitative approach in order to obtain in- depth explanation of the phenomenon. The study was informed by the public participation in governance theory. The study’s population consisted of officers from the Local Authority and Ward Development Committees. The sample size consisted of a total number of twelve participants and two focus group discussions (FGDs) from Wards Development committees (WDCs) which constituted of six members from each WDC in Choma Central Constituency. This study employed a non-probability sampling technique such as purposive sampling technique to select the respondents to participate in the study. Interview guides and focus group discussions were used to collect data. The study established the roles of WDCs; and that WDC members had little or no knowledge of the roles of WDCs. A number of challenges faced by WDCs affecting decentralisation were established such as lack of motivation for WDC members; inadequate provision of stationery, lack of transport for movements. Furthermore, the study established that WDCs had the capability of driving decentralization. The study concluded that WDCs are capable of driving decentralization. However, there is need to enhance decentralization through capacity building WDCs and equipping WDCs for an effective and efficient service delivery through dealing with challenges that are affecting the pace of driving decentralization.