THE ROLE OF RECORDS MANAGEMENT IN ENHANCING TRANSPARENCY IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT AUTHORITIES IN TANZANIA: A CASE OF BAGAMOYO DISTRICT LAND COUNCIL

ABSTRACT This study assessed the role of records management in enhancing transparency at Bagamoyo District Land Council in Tanzania. It was guided by three objectives: to examine the existence of records management policies and procedures, assess staff awareness of and compliance with records management practices, and evaluate the efficiency of records access and retrieval at the council. A descriptive research design was used. The target population comprised 42 staff members working in registry, records management, land administration and administrative sections. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews. Thirty-nine respondents participated, representing a response rate of 92.9%. Quantitative data were analysed using frequencies and percentages, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings showed that 68.6% of respondents confirmed the existence of records management policies and procedures, while 77.1% reported that documentation of records created and received was maintained. Furthermore, 77.1% were aware of records management policies, 74.3% indicated staff compliance with established procedures, 68.6% agreed that records could be located quickly, 82.9% confirmed the existence of file movement controls, and 80.0% reported that retrieval delays negatively affected transparency and service delivery. The study concludes that effective records management strengthens transparency, accountability and efficient service delivery. It recommends strengthening policies and procedures, increasing staff training, improving storage facilities and expanding electronic records management systems at Bagamoyo District Land Council.

Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Peer review

Not peer-reviewed

Licence

All rights reserved