Assessing the Implementation of Legal Frameworks on Current Records Management in Public Offices: A Case of Business Registration and Licensing Agency (BRELA)

Abstract

The main objective of this study was to assess the implementation of existing legal frameworks in the management of records at Business Registration and Licensing Agency (BRELA) in Tanzania. Specifically, the study aimed at finding the use of record management legal frameworks in records creation and capturing, classification, tracking and use, and records storage and protection at BRELA. The study targeted a population of 88 staff members of BRELA from whom, 40 respondents were purposively sampled. Qualitative data were collected through interview and observation while quantitative data were collected by using questionnaires. The study reveals that, BRELA has failed to implement the legal frameworks effectively in its records creation and capture, classification, tracking and use, storage and protection. The study recommends that BRELA’s top management should prioritise its record management unit to ensure effective record management. BRELA should adopt keyword filing classification system as stipulated by Registry procedures manual of 2007, and establishing guidelines and standards for records security, documenting and implementing disaster preparedness and vital records plan, procedures for access control with assistance from RAMD.

Keywords: Legal frameworks, Record practitioners, Records management practices, Policy, Regulations, Guidelines

DOI: 10.7176/IKM/9-11-02

Publication date: December 31^st 2019