Assessment of factors influencing identification of the most vulnerable children in Tanzania: experiences from Morogoro rural district

Abstract

Background Tanzania is facing a rapid increase of most vulnerable children. MVC identification has been considered as an important step towards provision of adequate protection and essential services. MVC identification is facing challenges including identification of non-eligible children and inadequate community involvement just to mention a few. Objectives This study aimed to assess factors influencing identification of most vulnerable children in Morogoro Rural district. The study was guided by the following specific objectives:-to explore the contribution of training towards identification of most vulnerable children, to assess the adequacy of workforce allocation for identification of most vulnerable children, to assess the adequacy of time allocation for identification of most vulnerable children and to explore the extent of policy/guidelines advocacy for identification of most vulnerable children were assessed. Materials and Methods A qualitative cross sectional study was conducted in Morogoro Rural district within two villages obtained from two wards. A total of 81 respondents were purposely selected as key informants. The data was obtained through in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and documentary reviews. Data were analyzed for themes in order to meet the objective of this study, thematic analysis approach was followed. Results The study reveals that training is lacking to undertake MVC identification. However, majority of the influential entities such as MVCC, ward and village leaders had little knowledge and exposure on the identification process. Inadequacy of workforce and time allocation for MVC identification was evident. Policies guidelines were not adequately advocated and disseminated to the council and community level. Recommendations The study recommends that more efforts should be made to train the key implementers and overseers of the MVC programme that includes identification of MVC. In addition, efforts should be made for policy advocacy and dissemination. Finally MVCC should be empowered to enable them to fulfill their undertakings.