Barriers to Corporate Social Responsibility Implementation in Tanzania: Evidence from the North Mara Gold Mine

Various studies have reported barriers facing privately owned mining companies in implementing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices. While this is fairly well known for private companies, the barriers faced by partly government-owned mining companies remain to be established. Therefore, this study sought to examine the barriers that inhibit the implementation of CSR practices and analyse strategies to overcome these barriers. The study was cross sectional, it involved 358 respondents selected by using a systematic random sampling technique. The data was collected using questionnaires, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and documentary reviews. Data was analysed using descriptive analysis and content analysis. It was found that poor community involvement, improper use of CSR funds, and a lack of transparency were the major barriers to the implementation of CSR. The main strategies to improve CSR were also suggested. It is recommended to establish an independent national CSR body to manage, coordinate, and organise CSR work in Tanzania.