THE ASSESSMENT ON THE USE OF DIGITAL RECORDS MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS IN REDUCING LAND CONFLICTS: A CASE STUDY AT MINISTRY OF LAND, HOUSING, HUMAN SETTLEMENT DEVELOPMENT (MLHHSD)

Land conflicts remain a persistent challenge in Tanzania, largely attributed to weaknesses in land records management systems, including incomplete documentation, misplaced files, duplication of land titles, and unauthorized alterations. This study assessed the use of digital records management systems (DRMS) in reducing land conflicts at the Ministry of Land, Housing, and Human Settlement Development (MLHHSD). The study specifically examined the contribution of DRMS in improving accuracy, accessibility, and security of land records; assessed the effectiveness of DRMS in enhancing transparency, accountability, and timeliness in land administration; and identified challenges facing the implementation and use of DRMS in managing land records. The study employed a case study research design and was guided by the Records Continuum Theory. Data were collected from 36 respondents selected purposively from various departments at MLHHSD using interviews, questionnaires, observation, and documentary review. Data were analyzed using content analysis, identifying patterns and themes related to the research objectives. The findings revealed that DRMS significantly contribute to improving accuracy of land records by reducing human errors associated with manual record-keeping. Accessibility of land information has improved through digital systems enabling quick retrieval, although challenges such as technical difficulties sometimes hinder access. The study found that security of land records has been enhanced through password protection, access controls, and audit trails, though cybersecurity threats remain a concern. Regarding effectiveness, DRMS were found to enhance transparency by recording all transactions electronically, thereby creating accountability. Timeliness in processing land transactions has improved, with digital systems reducing service delivery delays. However, challenges including inadequate ICT infrastructure, insufficient technical skills, data migration difficulties, cybersecurity risks, and policy gaps were identified as hindering full effectiveness of digital land records management.

Type

Dissertation

Language

English

Peer review

Not peer-reviewed

Licence

All rights reserved