Awareness on Corporate Social Responsibility among Selected Companies in Mwanza Tanzania

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess if companies practice corporate social responsibility (CSR). The study assessed any activities conducted by selected companies for social-economic development of the local community. CSR initiatives create variety of benefits but little is known on any practices among companies in Tanzania. The study employed a qualitative research approach. Subsequently, a purposive sampling design was used to select large and popular companies in Mwanza to investigate their awareness in practicing CSR issues. Interview was used as data collection tool which was analysed in themes. The findings revealed that education, health projects and games project were among the most projects implemented as CSR that contributed to the development of the community in Mwanza. Projects such as clean water supply, maintenance of infrastructure and sanitation were least implemented under CSR due to cost implication attached to the process of supplying and purifying water. The study concluded that even though not all companies were practicing CSR, all the selected companies were aware of its importance both to the community and to the company. This study is important as it will enhance companies to practice CSR to tap the varied potential benefits.