Social Challenges Facing Ex-Prisoners During their Integration into Societies in Iringa Municipality, Tanzania
Anitha K. Benard *
Department of Community Development, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Iringa, P.O. Box-200, Iringa, Tanzania.
Given Msomba
Department of Community Development, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Iringa, P.O. Box-200, Iringa, Tanzania.
John Pesha
Department of Community Development, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Iringa, P.O. Box-200, Iringa, Tanzania.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study examined the social challenges encountered by ex-prisoners during their reintegration into society a case of Iringa Municipality. Questionnaires and key-informant interviews were used to collect quantitative data and qualitative respectively. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze qualitative data, while Statistical Product for Social Solutions (SPSS Version 20) was used to analyze quantitative data. The study's findings underscored social challenges faced by ex-prisoners as they sought to reintegrate into their society that include discrimination by family members and society, difficulties in securing housing, and limited access to essential healthcare services. Based on these findings, the study recommendations include educational initiatives aimed at reducing discrimination against ex-prisoners by raising awareness about their rehabilitation and potential contributions to society.
Keywords: Social challenges, ex-prisoners, integration, societies, Iringa municipality