A framework towards the efficacy of Pre-trial Diversion Programs in extenuating Juvenile Delinquency in Zimbabwe: A case study of Chitungwiza District.
- Author
- Tabarara, Salmah
- Title
- A framework towards the efficacy of Pre-trial Diversion Programs in extenuating Juvenile Delinquency in Zimbabwe: A case study of Chitungwiza District.
- Abstract
- The study sought to explore the efficacy of pre-trial diversion programs in extenuating juvenile delinquency in Zimbabwe, with a special focus on the juvenile justice system in Chitungwiza District. This study adopted an interpretivist philosophical perspective and a qualitative research approach. The study also employed a case study design to provide an in depth analysis on the efficacy of pretrial diversion programs in extenuating juvenile delinquency in Zimbabwe. Purposive, convenience and quota sampling were utilised to select 15 participants who included 4 key informants, 9 young offenders and 2 family members. This ensured that the researcher could access clients based on their geographical area, expertise and availability. Participants were 15 including 4 key informants, 9 young offenders and 2 family members. Data was collected through in-depth interviews, observations and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis was used analyse data. The research was guided by three key objectives namely, to assess the efficacy of pre-trial diversion programs in Zimbabwe, to identify the challenges faced in implementation of pretrial diversion programs in Chitungwiza and to enhance existing pre-trial diversion programs through a model. These objectives were explored under the restorative justice theory which not only informed the evaluation of existing programs but also guided the development of evidence-based recommendations for improving these initiatives within Chitungwiza District. The study found out that restorative justice is essential for the effectiveness of pretrial diversion. With a focus on principles of accountability, rehabilitation, and repairing harm, pre-trial diversion provides young offenders with a meaningful alternative to traditional prosecution. This approach not only reduces recidivism rates but also promotes personal growth and aids in successful reintegration into society. The study also acknowledged that it is crucial to expand and strengthen these programs within the justice system. Programs particularly singled out were community service, vocational training and placement at institution. The researcher found out that contrary to literature, these programs are actually lagging behind in terms of providing service to young offenders as is the case with PTD in Chitungwiza not implementing community service due to resource constraints, similarly vocational training cannot be fully utilised while institutions are filled to capacity with an incessant lack of trained personnel. The study also concluded that while pre-trial diversion in Zimbabwe is acknowledged as a positive step towards rehabilitation of young offenders away from punishment, it is significantly hampered these systemic challenges. Consequently, these findings underscored the need for necessary integration of interventions towards the enhancement of pre-trial diversion programs such as a comprehensive legal reform, increased resource allocation, vigorous public awareness campaigns and strengthened interagency collaboration. One can therefore conclude that ultimately for these programs to achieve maximum impact, the researcher recommends that relevant stakeholders such as pre-trial diversion officers, probation officers and the government utilise the Interstitial framework for restorative juvenile justice outlined in this research.
- Date
- June 2025
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Juvenile Delinquency
- Pre-trial Diversion Programs
- Chitungwiza District
- Supervisor
- Dr. V. P. Mangwiro
- Item sets
- Department of Social Work
- Media
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Tabarara, Salmah.pdf