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.
