Effectiveness of Appraisal of Public Records in Tanzania: Findings from President’s Office Records and Archives Management Department (PO-RAMD)

Abstract

This article discusses the effectiveness of appraisal of public records in Tanzania. It addresses the ineffectiveness of public records appraisal in various offices in Tanzania and come up with the best approaches for the exercise on regard of the country guidelines, policies, laws and standards. Data were collected through interview, questionnaire and documentary review. A sample of 52 respondents was purposively selected. The findings revealed that Micro and Macro appraisal were common methods used to appraise records; it was also observed that the organization lacked integration between archivists and records creators especially during appraisal process. Further, it was explored that no specific schedules, policies and standards used during appraisal process. Furthermore, it was discovered that the observed deficiencies affected proper appraisal of public records. The article recommends that, appropriate measures like training and technical supports should be taken by RAMD and government to improve appraisal of public records.

Key words: Records appraisal, Approaches, Archivist, Creator, Records value, Business activity

DOI: 10.7176/IKM/9-5-04

Publication date:May 31^st 2019