Library and Information Science

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Industrial growth 1920-1967, a study of medium size industries in Dar es Salaam
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1977) Bendera, Stella
This is a study on the development of medium sized industries in Dar es Salaam. The thesis begins with an introductory chapter where the critical framework of the main work is discussed; the question of merchant capital and that of a dependant colonial economy are all discussed. The first chapter looks at the whole economy of Tanzania during the pre-colonial period and tries to establish the development of productive forces and their progressive transformation and later their stagnation mainly due to the coming of cheap mass produced goods from the metropole.The second chapter looks at the various factors both social and economic which led to the lopsided development of industries in Dar es Salaam. The period covered here is between 1920 and 1945. The thesis examines here aspects such as sources of capital and the type of industries established. The work also tries to show how during the period of Second World War and the Great Depression, the colonies struggled for self-sufficiences. The third chapter discusses the developments in the 1945 to 1960 period and the effects of the Multinational Corporation in these industries. The fourth and last chapter deals with the industrial developments in Dar es Salaam. This is a case study whereby the specifics of the various developments are studied. This chapter has tried to review the operations, of these industries, their output values, raw material used and the profitability of each branch of industry studied. The conclusions reached are based on the material discussed in the previous chapters. The reader will discover that this work is an attempt to show some of the limitations that confronted industrial growth in Dar es Salaam. Some of these were manifested by the nature and operations of merchant capital itself and the dependence on the metropolitan economics. The study relied on both oral sources and industrial surveys. This was supplemented by work done in the Tanzania National Archives (TNA), the Registrar of Companies, and the Central Bureau of Statistics.
Utilization of technological capabilities in Tanzania: the case of beer manufacturing industry.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1998) Wanga, Godwill G.
The low level of utilization of technological capabilities has been a serious problem in manufacturing industry in Tanzania. In this respect, this study has focused its attention on the beer manufacturing industry in Tanzanian economy. This study has found that more studies have been thinking about acquisition of technological capabilities than their utilization. One task of this study has been to demonstrate the utilization of technological capabilities in manufacturing industry. The particular attention of this study has considered and hence presented various but functional forms of technological capabilities applied in the manufacturing activities such as Tanzania Breweries Limited (TBL) as a case study. With that, it has established the evidence and explanation of utilization of technological capabilities in manufacturing. And, by taking this important aspect this study has deviated from others. The role of acquired and applied technological capabilities is shown to be crucial as they give relevant abilities to the manufacturing industry to perform its activities towards achieving its objectives and goals and hence improves and sustains its level of development. This study has found that the increasing level of utilization of technological capabilities in beer manufacturing industry is closely related to its level of improved performance. Therefore, it suggests that manufacturing industry need to apply technological capabilities for achievement of their sustainable development. Finally, this study has advised that more emphasis need to be put on researches on utilization of technological capabilities than solely on acquisition. Such acquisition is necessary but not sufficient condition for performance of manufacturing activities.
An assessment of academics` information needs and the effectiveness of African university library services: a case study of the University of Dar es Salaam library with comparative notes on selected libraries in East and Southern African universities.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1999) Butz, Cornelie
African universities have had to operate in an economically harsh climate over the Last decade. Government funds have dwindled due to decreasing expenditure on social services, especial in the education sector. University Libraries which try to cope with the ever increasing amount and diversity of information have been hit hard by these financial constraints, unable to replace outdated textbooks and to purchase current journals and important research materials. This study examined services of the UDSM Library for the university community, on the one hand, and academics' information needs for their teaching, research and consultancy activities, on the other hand. UDSM Library is presently undergoing an extensive transformation process - as is the University itself - to adjusting to the new economic realities and developing new services for its customers. The study could only briefly describe this on-going-development. Interviewees included UDSM academics from the Humanities and Science Faculties, postgraduates and academic librarians, as well as University administrators. For comparative reasons four other university libraries in the region were visited. Methods used for data collection were documentary review, questionnaires, interviews and observation. The research revealed that UDSM Library was still the major source of information for academics and postgraduates. However, library usage among academics was generally low. Their frequently pursued information seeking strategies were not mainly book-oriented, but more of an oral nature and their personal book collections grew only at a very modest rate. The prime interests of UDSM academies were research information needs, followed by current awareness and consultancy information needs. Academics and postgraduates used mainly two sectors of the UDSM Library collection, Periodicals and East Africana. The CD-ROM sector enjoyed a modest popularity among academics. Both the Periodicals and the CD-ROM sector rely heavily on donor money for funding. Apart from the Main Library, academic regularly used departmental libraries which they believed to be more specialised and more relevant. A majority of academics profited from link arrangements with foreign universities regarding their information needs. However, the major reason -for limited academic support for the Library as related to poor Library funding. Dissatisfaction with library services culminated in complaints about the lack of new and current books, inadequate funds and space constrains within the Library building. Regarding its mission, the Library defined its role as similar to that of an academic department, claiming to also have a threefold mission of teaching, research and consultancies. Therefore, one of a University Library's most important tasks-to provide relevant services to users-has became only one library objective among others. This study placed UDSM Library fourth place out of five in a ranking involving other regional University Libraries. The differences, however, between the Zambian (99 points), the Tanzanian (101 points), the Kenyan (102 points) and the Ungandan (105 points) Libraries were very small. Botswana with 126 points was the exception, showing that economic differences were the most critical factor in determining library performance. The study indicated that the UDSM Library services do not meet the information needs of academics and postgraduates.
An investigation of the availability and application of Information Technology in Institutions of Higher Learning in Tanzania.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2000) Tweve, Julius Tunsaje
This study investigated availability and application of information technologies like, computers, Compact Disc-Read Only Memory, Internet, scanner, photocopiers etc. The study studied institutions of higher learning in Dar es Salaam and Morogoro regions. A total of twelve institutions were studied. The study used both primary and secondary sources of data. Findings of this study have established that most institutions of higher learning in Tanzania with the exception of the universities which were not part of this study still lag behind in the application of information technology. Few institutions had IT facilities used for information management, and accessibility due to a number of reasons. Some of the reasons included, inadequate funding, bureaucracy, poor telecommunication and communication facilities and erratic and unreliable power supply. Availability of information technology differed from one institution to another due to various sources of funding like private sources, grants, donations and government subventions each institution had. Applications of IT varied from one institution to another. For example, computers were mostly used for word processing. Use of other facilities like scanners, photocopiers and CD-ROM varied between the institutions. Furthermore, this study revealed that the level of skills on the use of IT especially computers were low in most institutions. Based on the findings this study therefore recommends the following: one, there is a need to increase the number of information technology in all institutions of higher learning in Tanzania; two, since information technology needs special skill to operate, then there is a need to make an effort to train users in each institution so that the available IT facilities are not underutilized. Such training must cater for staff and other users like students, secretaries etc; three, due to high costs involved in the acquisition of IT government should be advised to reduce or remove all import taxes on IT facilities. Fortunately the government of Tanzania has already implemented some of these measures by reducing import taxes on computers; four, there must be a clear national policy to guide development of information technology so as to reduce its arbitrary growth. Such policy must clearly set out standards, training requirements and funding alternatives for IT development.
Examination of the use of information technology applications for online searching: the case of the University of Dar es Salaam Library
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2000) Augustino, Daniel Mhando
The use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is now wide spread in various sectors, including libraries and information centres. At the University of Dar es Salaam library in Tanzania ICT facilitates the availability of information to Library users. The adoption, use and application of ICT at the University of Dar es Salaam library was intended to enable users to have access to online and electronic reference materials for their academic endeavours. Application of ICT facilities at the University library is still in its infant stages, though the number of users has been increasing steadly. This study looked at how ICT allows students to have access to a variety of reference materials other than books. However, findings of this study show that most users do not take full advantage of the available facilities to retrieve online information, instead they use ICT for communication purposes especially corresponding using the Internet. The failure by the students to utilize ICT effectively for information retrieval could be attributed to lack of information searching and retrieval skills. Therefore there is a need to introduce bibliographic instruction programmes to allow students to take full advantage of ICT facilities at the University library to solve the problem of shortage of reference books and current literature.
The relationship between selection decisions and circulations of library items: the case study of the British Council Library in Tanzania.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2000) Yusuph, Al- Amin
This study examined how the priority sector oriented information services are able to provide the right services that meets both the organisational objectives and user needs by relating selection decisions to the use of library items. Data was collected using structured questionnaires, face to face interviews, observations and an experiment which involved the display of videos. The potential of selection decisions such as user participation through item reservations, item donations, literary prizes, and information enquiries were analysed. Four hypotheses were tested. In the first hypothesis it is seen that resembling items have a lower circulation than items that do not resemble. In the second hypothesis it was proved that highly circulating library items have a covering or packaging with adequate information on its thematic contents. In the third hypothesis user participation methods were seen to be more appropriate than non-user participation methods. The fourth hypothesis was not confirmed. The study came out with other findings in the information seeking behaviour of library users which could further be studied such as the potential of item colour and the use of electronic public catalogues. For instance, with respect to the use of the electronic catalogues, it was found that the majority of users preferred to browse through the shelves rather than locating items from the catalogue. It was also found that stock development in the priority sector oriented libraries is focused to meet the needs of the institutional prioritised sectors despite a very high user demand for a shift to stock development programs that cater for user needs. Finally, recommendations are provided on the need for the priority sector oriented information services to put an emphasis on user participation in collection development through their already existing systems such as reservations and enquiries.
The state of records management in the national social security fund headquarters, Dar es Salaam
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2001) Ndibalema, Theresia Kokuhirwa
The study investigated the state of records management in the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) headquarters, Dar-es-salaam. It also identified the bottlenecks encountered in the NSSF records management and provided recommendations on how those problems could be solved. The findings of the study revealed that the state of the records management at NSSF does not support the records life cycle theory as propounded by several authors. Efficient records management is affected by lack of Records Management Programme/ directive or policies, lack of training and lack of support from the top management of the NSSF. Others are lack of awareness of records management by the decision-makers and lack of comprehensive scheme of service and inadequate equipment, tools and facilities relevant to records management. Recommended solutions include; the establishment of a comprehensive records management policy aimed at an integrated approach to the management of whole life cycle theory of records, the provision of enough storage area, trained personnel, equipment, good classification and indexing systems. Others include the establishment of repositories for managing the records, and finally determining methods of evaluation of all phases of the records management program.
Accessibility of information to small scale industries (SSI) in Tanzania: a case study of selected SSI in Dar es Salaam
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2001) Mwansasu, Mpale Yvonne
This study was conducted at six SSI and four information centres in Dar es salaam. The objective was to examine the accessibility of information to SSI workers in order to identify barriers to the accessibility and utilisation of information to the SSI sector in Tanzania. Four aspects were examined: The status of SSI workers, their information needs and awareness to its availability and usefulness, information-seeking strategies used, and the barriers to information accessibility and suggested ways out. The major findings indicated that the SST sector was not doing well. Various problems related to marketing, financial constraints, high production costs, lack of technology and unavailability of information were said to slow down the development of SSI. The findings further indicated that SSI workers were more conversant in Kiswahili than English and/or any other foreign languages. They were also found to be mostly of low social economic status with some of them working for long hours. Those factors were additionally indicated to be the barriers affecting their accessibility to information. In addition, the study indicated that SSI workers mostly need information on business and managerial skills, business practices, credit and financial opportunities, marketing, science and technology, news, religion, policies and guidelines of SSI in Tanzania. Other findings were that, most of SSI workers do not visit Libraries and other centres to access information; instead, they rely on printed and electronic media. Use of oral, informal conversation, training and slight reading of books were also reported to be common. SSI workers made specific recommendations on removing barriers to information accessibility as follows: The media should be widely used to disseminate information, information units be established at various SSI, frequent training and seminars be given to SSI workers and that information providers should offer translation services.
The role of mass media in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2001) Nyoni, Agnes Ngole
The main purpose of this study was to investigate the extent to which media plays a major role in the fight against AIDS. Specifically, the study investigated the type of health information programs provided by the media and the extent to which the media provide information about the sources of HIV/AIDS support and counseling. The objectives of the study were to examine the role of the media, to identify barriers that hinder the media to access and disseminate HIV/AIDS information and to determine how the media can be more effective in the fight against HIV/AIDS. A descriptive survey method was employed in data collection. There were four population categories namely media institutions, journalists, and editors and media customers. Research instruments such as questionnaires, interview and observation were used to collect data from the field. Thereafter data were interpreted by using cross tabulation. The findings revealed that most health information programs provided by the media were on water borne STDs and HIV/AIDS diseases. The findings also revealed that the media often provide information about sources of support and counseling. In addition the major roles played by the media are education and information provision. While obstacles to effective accessing and dissemination of HIV/AIDS information include; government bureaucracy, reluctance of some people to provide information, cultural taboos, and government control. The study concludes that the mass media can play a very important role in the fight against HIV/AIDS if journalists are trained in strategies to disseminate HIV/AIDS in the African environment and report HIV/AIDS information in a professional manner. It recommends the removal of barriers to effective dissemination of information that include; government control, cultural taboo, bureaucracy in government circles and reluctance of some people to discuss HIV/AIDS issues.
Managing public records: the case of current records of the ministry of education and culture
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2001) Kitalu, Rhoda Allex
The study investigated the management of current records at the Ministry of Education and Culture in Tanzania. The Ministry was selected for investigation because of the researcher's 15 years' working experience in the Ministry. A sample of 25 respondents was selected through purposive sampling technique, involving only information-rich cases of respondents for the study. Four methods of data collection were used include: questionnaires, observation, documentary, literature and interview schedules. Findings of the study revealed that the management systems for all types of records including current records are inadequate and still inefficient for the effective flow of information in the Ministry. Constraints accounting for this include resource and management policy-related problems that are lack of funding, untrained personnel, inadequate space for keeping the records, lack of comprehensive records management policy, negligence on the part of the Ministry officials, non-availability of essential working tools and equipment. Most of these problems seem to be known to Ministry officials. Recommendations in the form of strategies have been identified, which if they can be effectively and concurrently implemented can improve the management of records at the Ministry. However, it is emphasized that the formulation of a Ministry-wide records management policy is critical if all other problems have to be dealt with. Other recommendations include the need for effective planning based upon an elaborated records management policy, and the need for cooperation with external sources that may be having relevant expertise as related to records management practices.
Information sources and needs of Tanzania Assemblies of God Church Leaders in Dar es Salaam.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2002) Fanuel, Jennifer
This dissertation studied the kind of information sources that are used by Church Leaders of Tanzania Assemblies of God Church in Dar es Salaam. The study was based on the popular information model by Hayden which illustrates the relationships between the concept of user needs and behaviour. This model is a combination of Wilson (1981) Figure of Interrelationships among areas in the field of user studies and Krikelas (1983) Model of Information seeking behaviour. This study asked the kind of information sources that church leaders need and whether these sources are effective and the problems that face in using the sources. Furthermore, the study investigated the kind of information that church leaders need. The study employed a method of data collection where data was collected through sample surveys using questionnaires that were distributed to 40 respondents. The questionnaires were self-administered and included both closed and open questions (see appendix). 30 questionnaires (75%) out of 40 were returned. The study found out that there are limited information sources specifically designed for church leaders and this affects even their information seeking behaviour. Findings show that church leaders use one or a combination of the following sources: Personal libraries and other ministers.
Access to and usage of mobitel and vodacom mobile telephones for information communication in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2002) Kaddu-Birungi, Sarah
The study investigated the access to, and usage of Mobitel and Vodacom mobile telephones for information communication in Dar es salaam, Tanzania. The two were selected because of the services that they offer to their users. Mobitel provides both analog and digital services whereas Vodacom provides Digital services. Secondly, because of the increasing competition, globalization and the drive for market share among the companies. A purposive sampling technique was used. Both primary and secondary data was used. The sample was 70, that is 35 from each, 20 for the service providers therefore, 10 each. Questionnaires, Interviews, published and un published works were used in data collection. Only data that was relevant to the study was summarized. The study revealed that information communication through mobile telephones is important for business communication, convenience, safety and micro coordination. Recommendations included making the services affordable to all, adequate telecommunication network to ensure accessibility to all in all parts of the country, and technical support. To a large extent, most of today's communication and information services are centralized. They require some basic underlying infrastructure without which the service cannot exist.
Information seeking behavior and library use of secondary school students: the case of Dar es Salaam region.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2002) Ruzegea, Mboni Amiri
This dissertation is on information seeking behavior with reference to the students in secondary schools in Dar es Salaam region whose information-seeking behavior has never been investigated before. The study examines such basic concepts as information, information seeking behavior, information needs, and factors affecting information seeking behavior. The review of earlier use studies is then made. This is followed by the analysis of the data and outlying of the major findings. In investigating the information-seeking behavior of secondary school students in Dar es Salaam region, one hundred and eight questionnaires were distributed among the students of six selected schools. A 88% response was achieved. Among the findings of the investigation was the low use of school libraries as sources of information. A high use of public libraries especially by students in day schools was observed. Secondly, school libraries are not fully utilized due to the poor information resources they hold. Hence students only use school libraries as study rooms. Many students reported to have problems with the English language, although it is the medium of instruction in the schools. The impact of this is that students do not effectively seek and understand information important for their studies. Among the recommendations made are the establishment of school libraries with appropriate information resources, the training of teacher librarians and implementing user education programmes in secondary schools.
The status of college Librarians: a case study of Tanzania.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2002) Matefu, Rochus Oswald
The purpose of this research was to find out why College Librarians in Tanzania are accorded low status and how this impacts on their job performance and satisfaction. The significance of information is described including the functions of the college library and librarians. The impact of new Information Technologies on the roles of college libraries and librarians is also discussed. A Review of the Literature shows that most college librarians have no academic status. Ideas held by different schools of thought on the issue are expounded. Vroom's Valence Instrumentality-Expectancy Theory and Adam's Equity Theory are used in this study to explain why academic status for College Librarians is important. A combination of methods was used to collect data for this research including a questionnaire, direct observation and face-to-face interviews. 75 randomly selected respondents from three selected institutions participated in this study. They included librarians, lecturers, administrative staff and students. Data was analyzed using multivariate description and statistics using SPSS computer statistical package. While librarians play dual roles both as educators and information specialists in supporting the mission and objectives of colleges, however, they are marginalized and are accorded low status. For example, findings of this research revealed that there are several factors that contribute to the low status of College librarians, including lack of training and lack of understanding of the role played by librarians. Findings also revealed that most librarians who participated in this study were highly dissatisfied with their jobs and conditions of services. As such the study concluded that there is need to motivate librarians in order to increase their performance and efficiency. The study further concluded that training for librarians is crucial in order to enhance their status and improve their image in colleges.
Access to and use of information and communication techinology (ICT) in selected agricultural research institutes: a case 0f the ministry of agriculture and food security in Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2002) Elly, Tumsifu
The purpose of this study was to investigate access to and use of information and communication technology (ICT) in selected agricultural research institutes of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in Tanzania. The survey method was used as a technique for data collection, using both the questionnaire and interview schedule as data gathering instruments. A total of five research institutes and the Information Documentation Unit of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security headquarters were surveyed and a total of 61 respondents were interviewed. The major findings of this study revealed that there was generally poor access to and use of ICT for managing agricultural research information in the surveyed institutes. The findings also revealed that the causes for this poor access to and use of ICT were poor ICT infrastructure, lack of ICT policy, poor ICT skills of the potential users and generally poor management in some of the institutes. The root cause of these problems emanated from the poor economy which results in little funds being allocated for research information activities and the acquisition of ICTs. In addition, poor access to and use were also associated with unfavourable management conditions especially in those institutes with the required ICT. These include: bad physical settings/ location of the gadgets, poor time allocation for use of ICT facilities and bureaucratic procedures in using those facilities. The study recommends an appropriate ICT policy formulation at both national and institutional level, training of the researchers and improved ICT infrastructure for effective and efficient ICT use for managing agricultural research information.
Linkage between information generation and dissemination to users via electronic media: a case study of how users in Sikonge district get forestry information.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2002) Shija, Hubert
In spite of much research and many strategies and plans to curb deforestation, the rate of forest loss in Tanzania continues to increase. A theoretical and conceptual framework devised to test the ideal link that should exist between the generators of forestry information and the users, via the media. This study was conducted in Dar es Salaam and Sikonge District, Tabora Region, to test the framework and the assumptions. The sample included thirty users - twenty-eight domestic and two commercial. The selected media institutions were two radio and two television stations. Again the selected generators constituted a mix of international and national organisations. According to the framework guidelines and the selected sample, the findings showed that there was some linkage in the existing communication systems between generators and users via television and radio. However, it was generally uneven. Linkages between some generators and the media were also mixed. For example, Radio Tanzania, Dar es Salaam (RTD) and Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism had a strong link. Radio Tumaini had weak links with generators. However, all users had access to the radio, the link with the media was not strong because the number of programmes transmitted per year were too few to have any impact. To strengthen the existing system of communication between generators and media there is a need for increasing the frequency with which forestry information is given to the media who, in turn, should then increase the number of programmes to users by using innovative ways to entice users to pay attention to them as suggested. Finally, since radio is a potential communication media, RTD and other radio stations also need to improve transmission to rural areas so that the reception is always clear and the timing appropriate for rural women and men.
Assessment of the extent of information and communication technology (ICT) improvement of performance and efficiency in the banking sector: a case study of the national micro-finance bank (NMB), Dar es Salaam.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2003) Chande, Rehema Frank
This study examined the extent of ICT usage and application in banking institutions and the extent to which ICT has improved efficiency and performance in the National Microfinance Bank- (NMB). The study was conducted in Dar es Salaam region. Combinations of methods were used to collect data for this survey includes a questionnaire, face-to-face interviews and observations. Major findings of this study revealed that computerization has improved performance, efficiency and record keeping including fast access to customer information and its retrieval to some extent. However, findings also revealed that NMB has inadequate IT facilities particularly in its branches, only a few staff are computer literate and are familiar with banking software applications. Similarly, findings revealed that NMB lacks technical service support and business is affected by frequent power failures and power interruptions. Based on the findings, it is recommended that National Micro-finance Bank (NMB) should identify critical training needs and invest in the training of its staff to ensure they have relevant and up to date IT skills and knowledge about relevant software applications in order to cope with technological changes and competition. Furthermore, the NMB should invest in ICT hardware and software applications for its branches rather than concentrating on the headquarters. This would also allow its branches to be more competitive. Finally, areas for future research are also proposed.
Information and communication technologies (ICTs) for good local governance in Tanzania: case studies of Dar es Salaam City Council and Morogoro Municipality.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2003) Pessa, Joseph Cassian
This study investigates the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for promoting good Local Governance in Tanzania. Two Local Government Authorities (LGAs) were selected for the study: Dar es Salaam City Council and Morogoro Municipal Council. Four research questions were answered using data collected from 35 respondents which included 7 H.O.Ds, 3 decision-makers, 16 technical staff, 5 secretaries and 4 businessmen. More specifically, the study assesses the current Communication System and the extent to which it meets users' needs. Also, it examines the current use of ICTs and the potentialities and problems for enhancing the application of ICTs in facilitating transparent and faster information flow within and between Local Governments. Qualitative and quantitative research paradigms were used to collect data. The findings of the study reveal that the two LGAs have computers and use them to carry out some of their activities especially in Financial Management and word processing. Currently, most of the computers have neither e-mail nor Internet connectivity. As such, the LGAs communication system is mostly manual and does not meet users' needs. Nonetheless, there is unanimous acceptance among the LGA workers that ICTs can improve service delivery in LGAs. From the findings, the study concluded that ICTs play very little role in communication. However, the LGAs have computers which could be used to expand e-mail and Internet connectivity. Inhibiting the use of ICTs are factors such as lack of ICT Policy which results in poor utilization of even existing facilities and general low level of investment into ICTs. Unless there are drastic changes the current communication system is likely to continue being inadequate to meet the needs of users. The following recommendations are made: LGAs should develop a ICTs Policy emanating from within LGAs. The government should provide fund for ICT projects and ensure their sustainability and relic' power supply.
Information seeking in electronic environment: an investigation of forestry researchers in Tanzania.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2003) Said, Alfred Sife
This study examined the way Tanzanian forestry researchers seek and disseminate research information in the growing global electronic environment. The survey method was used for data collection, using self-administered questionnaire. Interviews and observations methods supplemented the survey method. Three forestry research institutions were surveyed, fifty-three respondents were given questionnaire to fill in and three officers were interviewed. Findings of the study showed a wide range of information needs among forestry researchers in the studied institutions. Researchers depended mainly on their institutional libraries to meet their information needs, but also they used other forestry research institution libraries; some international, governmental and non-governmental organizations. Researchers depended mostly on printed sources but also there was evidence that they were moving towards the use of electronic resources. A good number of forestry researchers were using various types of electronic information resources like CD-ROM databases and Internet services in different capacities. Other important sources of information were consulting professional colleagues and attending professional workshops and seminars. However, the use of electronic information resources in the dissemination of information was still low. The full use of electronic information resources was mainly hindered by such problems as lack of awareness, inadequate funds, low level of training training, insufficient appropriate hardware and software and lack of national ICT policy. Based on the study findings, a number of recommendations were made. These include: improving the situation of forestry research institution libraries, networking all forestry research institution libraries, libraries should have promotional programmes, recruit IT personnel and that there should be a national ICT policy.
Development and application of information and communication technologies in the public sector: case of the Presidents's Office-Planning and Privatization, United Republic of Tanzania.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2004) Abdallah, Omari Iddi
The general objective of the study was to examine the development, access and application of ICT resources in the day-to-day activities of the Presidents' Office, Planning and Privatisation (POPP). In order to achieve the stated objective, a case study design was conducted at the POPP Central Office involving a sample of 60 staff members. Two types of interview schedules were used as the basic data collection instruments. Observation checklist and documentary sources supplemented the interviews. The study revealed that POPP owns a variety of ICT facilities to be used by the organization staff members. Nevertheless, access to such facilities was constrained by unfavourable location of the facilities. Furthermore, the study revealed that the use of the available ICTs was concentrated on more basic applications such as word processing or report writing and sending or receiving personal e-mails. Various problems hindered optimal utilization of ICTs at the POPP. Major problems revealed by this study include inadequate ICT skills, inadequate ICT facilities, poor on-line processing speed, frequent power failure, unfavourable location of ICT facilities and frequent Internet cuts and lack of reliable and quick technical support. To alleviate these constraints the following have been suggested: adoption of clearly set ICT training programme, additional budget for ICT skills development, and alternative means of regular supply of power. Other proposed measures were upgrading the Internet bandwidth; ICT facilities to be located in a place accessible to all and provision of quick technical assistance when needed.

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