Balancing Work and Motherhood: Child-Rearing Challenges among Working Mothers in Tanzania

Ben Sanga
Department of Leadership, Ethics and Governance
The Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy
Email: ben.sanga@yahoo.com

Abstract: This study examined the challenges faced by working mothers in balancing child-rearing responsibilities with job performance in Kigamboni Municipality, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Guided by the Role Strain Theory, the study sought to examine how limited childcare infrastructure, socio-economic constraints, and workplace policies affect the dual roles of caregiving and employment among mothers. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, whereby, a cross-sectional survey and case study designs were involved. Using Yamane’s formula, a sample size of 381 respondents was drawn from a target population of 8,021 working mothers through the use of multistage, purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS, while qualitative data from interviews and focus group discussions were thematically analyzed. Findings revealed that the majority of working mothers experienced significant strain in meeting both childcare and work demands, with inadequate affordable childcare services and unsupportive workplace policies emerging as major barriers. The study concludes that balancing these dual responsibilities often leads to reduced job performance and heightened stress levels. As well, the study recommends the implementation of family-friendly workplace policies, increased investment in affordable childcare facilities, and community-based support systems to ease the burden on working mothers. These findings contribute to localized knowledge on gender, work, and family life in Tanzania, while offering valuable insights for policymakers and employers.