Challenges of Disposal and Access to Electronic Records in the Midlands Province of Zimbabwe

Abstract

Disposal of electronic records is a challenge in many developing countries due to a number of factors such as deficiencies in skills, infrastructure, and legal and policy frameworks. Irresponsible, premature and uninformed destruction, preservation and transfer of electronic records directly affect access to the same now and in the future. Using the theoretical framework of the intergenerational equity theory, this study examines electronic records disposal practices and how they impact upon access to electronic documentary heritage now and in the future. This qualitative study was informed by the constructivist research paradigm and used the case study of government ministries in the Midlands province of Zimbabwe. Fifty-five out of 88 purposively selected public officers participated as interviewees. Data were also collected through personal observation where researchers observed electronic records disposal and access practices in ministries where access was granted. It was established that there were a number of challenges with regard to disposal of electronic records at a time when both the National Archives of Zimbabwe and the government ministries were incapacitated to properly preserve electronic records. Issues of infrastructure, skills and electronic records policies should be attended to so that the present and future generations may equally benefit from the nation’s electronic documentary heritage.