e-Records readiness in Malawi local government councils: the case study of Karonga town council

Abstract

This study assessed e-records readiness at Karonga District Council (KDC) as one of the local government authorities in Malawi. The study employed a descriptive survey design where a survey questionnaire was used to collect data. Altogether, 56 staff were sampled randomly and purposively. The staff comprised principal officers, records clerks, ICT personnel and other action officers. The study revealed that e-records readiness at KDC was low and evolving as evident by the presence of e-record products and technologies, which were largely inadequate and obsolete. The study also established that there was inadequate and poor adherence to policies, standards and procedures for e-records management practices. Furthermore, responsibilities for e-records management were not clear. There was no established records management programme. There fore, the study recommends the development of e-records management policy; recruitment of more staff; regular training in e-records products and other emerging technologies; mobilization of more resources required for management of records; and increasing awareness of the role of records management. This should be supported by the top management at the District Council and the Ministry of Local Government at large.