AN ASSESSMENT OF THE CONTRIBUTION OF RECORDS MANAGEMENT TO PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT IN DISTRICT COURT IN TANZANIA . A CASE STUDY OF TANDAHIMBA DISTRICT COURT

This research assessed the contribution of records management to performance improvement in district courts in Tanzania, focusing on Tandahimba District Court. Chapter One introduced the background, highlighting that poor recordkeeping practices in Tanzanian courts have historically led to case backlogs, delays, and limited transparency. The study set out objectives to examine current practices, evaluate their role in accountability and transparency, assess their relationship with case resolution efficiency, and identify challenges hindering effective systems. It emphasized the significance of records management in enhancing judicial performance, guiding reforms, and building public trust. Chapter Two reviewed literature, showing that records management is not just a technical process but a strategic discipline essential for governance, accountability, and efficiency. It discussed the importance of accurate and accessible records in judicial environments, the role of electronic case management systems, and how records management supports transparency, accountability, and case resolution efficiency. Chapter Three outlined the methodology, describing the case study approach at Tandahimba District Court, the population scope including magistrates, registry officers, ICT staff, and administrators, and the use of interviews, questionnaires, and document reviews to collect data. Chapter Four presented the findings, revealing that effective records management improved case resolution efficiency, reduced backlogs, and strengthened transparency and accountability. Courts with electronic systems performed better, but challenges such as reliance on manual filing, inadequate infrastructure, limited training, confidentiality concerns, financial constraints, and resistance to change persisted. Chapter Five concluded that records management is a critical driver of judicial performance improvement. It recommended strengthening digital infrastructure, expanding professional training, ensuring sustainable funding, and fostering cultural change to support modernization. The study contributes both academically and practically: academically by enriching literature on records management in developing judicial systems, and practically by offering policy guidance and capacity building strategies for Tanzanian courts. Overall, the research demonstrates that robust records management is central to improving efficiency, accountability, and transparency, thereby enhancing access to justice and reinforcing institutional integrity.

Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Peer review

Not peer-reviewed

Licence

All rights reserved