An Evaluation of Existing Measures and Interventions for Addressing Substance Abuse in the Public Sector: Evidence from Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania

This study evaluated existing measures and interventions addressing substance abuse in the public sector, with specific reference to Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania. Guided by Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory, the research examined how personal, environmental, and behavioural factors influence substance use among employees. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews. A sample of 100 participants was drawn from a population of 4,798 public servants across multiple departments, using stratified random and purposive sampling techniques. Data were analysed through descriptive statistics, SPSS-based inferential analysis, and thematic analysis. Findings revealed that substance abuse is a visible and growing concern, with alcohol and marijuana being the most commonly abused substances. Substance abuse negatively impacted employee performance, contributing to absenteeism, lateness, misconduct, and productivity decline. Interventions reported were largely disciplinary in nature warnings, transfers, suspensions, or dismissals with limited rehabilitative or preventive programs. Awareness of interventions was low, and employees expressed demand for structured policies, confidential counselling, and workplace education. The study concludes that interventions in Morogoro Municipality are inadequate, reactive, and inconsistent. It recommends the development of comprehensive workplace policies, confidential support systems, budgetary allocations, and integration of government-led strategies.