Proceedings

Industrial Revolution (IR) is a phase of technological and innovative changes aimed at solving societal problems. Over the centuries, industrial revolutions have profoundly transformed economic, social and cultural landscapes. The advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4th IR) brings forth a convergence of digital, biological and physical systems, introducing groundbreaking technologies and trends. These innovations, particularly in Library and Information Science (LIS), have transformed traditional services and offered unprecedented opportunities while also presenting significant challenges. This paper explores the evolution of industrial revolutions, with a focus on the 4th IR's technologies and trends, their impact on LIS and actionable strategies to harness these changes effectively. The first up to the current phase (4th IR) were triggered by discoveries that spurred massive productions in industries, computer-aided economic and social transformations and the Internet. Each of these phases had implications for the growth of LIS.

This study focused on authorship patterns in Indigenous Knowledge Management (IKM) in Tanzania’s scholarly journals indexed by the African Journals Online (AJOL) database spotlighting the significance of indigenous knowledge in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4th IR). Employing systematic literature review and rigorous bibliometric analysis, the study investigated the authorship patterns in this domain. It scrutinized authorship dynamics in 37 Tanzanian journals indexed by AJOL, the indexing platform of African-published journals offering a nuanced portrayal of the scholarly landscape. The analysis focused on articles authored by Tanzanian authors between 2008 and 2013. Descriptive statistics show that the majority (65.6%) of authors opt for single-authored contributions followed by two-author collaborations accounting for 27.9%, hence limited collaborative authorships and multidisciplinary collaboration among authors. These findings underscore the dominance of single-authorship in scholarly publications, with limited collaborative authorships among authors from different geographic regions and interdisciplinaries which may not fully leverage the potential of interdisciplinary collaboration essential for fostering innovation and inclusive development in the 4th IR. The findings in this study provide extra weight to the need for a paradigm shift towards collaborative authorship and interdisciplinary engagement. Such a shift is vital for effective indigenous knowledge transfer within academia, particularly amidst Tanzania's industrialization efforts in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

This study examined the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in library services through a bibliometric review of existing research trends. A systematic search in the Scopus database was conducted to identify AI-related papers on library services published in English from 1987 up to March 2024. The key bibliometric indicators which are publication output, citation analysis, and co-citation networks, were analyzed using the VOS viewer application. The study methodology and analysis concentrated on English-language journal articles and conference papers that examined the application of AI technologies in library services, and operations, highlighting AI's increasing significance in the field. By excluding book chapters and standalone books, researchers were able to focus on the most pertinent studies, ultimately resulting in a dataset of 973 relevant papers for bibliometric analysis. The findings of the study revealed a gradual increase in publication trends from 1987 to 2024 showing an increase in research on artificial intelligence (AI) in library services, with annual publications rising from 20 before 2007 to over 140 publications in 2023, particularly after a significant surge in 2017. The United States leads in both publications (296) and citations (4,905), followed by China (151) and India (76), revealing disparities in contributions and suggesting barriers for India in citation impact. Co-citation analysis positions the U.S. as a central hub for international collaborations, notably with countries like South Korea and Japan, while also highlighting expanding networks in African nations. Furthermore, cluster analysis underscores the interconnectedness of topics like "libraries," "metadata," and "knowledge-based systems," reflecting AI's transformative role in library operations. However, the study's reliance on the Scopus database limits its scope by excluding relevant research from other databases and non-English publications.

The objective of this study was to create an AI model for extracting metadata from electronic resources, improve academic library indexing, utilize Natural Language Processing techniques, and assess its performance. Data for the study was collected from three selected higher learning institutions, namely DUCE, MUHAS and NM-AIST. These academic institutions use KOHA, an open-source integrated library system that supports library management and bibliometric analysis. A bibliographic metadata of 8,421 records covering the period from 2010 to 2022 was extracted from these institutions. Among them, 79% were books, 12% were open access journal articles and other online resources, and 9% were dissertations and theses. An Ensemble Learning Model was developed which leveraged k-means clustering and natural language processing (NLP). Features captured in clustering included ISBN, barcode number, publication year, authors, publishers, titles, keywords, location and call number. Sentiment Analyzer (SA) was used to extract sentiments from online articles. SA detected all references to the given subject and determined sentiment in each of the references using NLP techniques. In this study, an Ensemble Learning Model was used as a meta-learning approach to leverage the strengths of both models and build a more robust and accurate metadata extraction model. F1- score of 0.72 was obtained for the evaluation matrix which combined two matrices: Precision and Recall, into a single metric by taking their harmonic mean. In simple terms, the F1 score was the weighted average mean of Precision and Recall used in Natural Language Processing. The Ensemble Model significantly improves the accuracy of extracting bibliographic indexed resources in digital libraries using relevant search queries. This indicates that the model has a high precision in extracting relevant indexed electronic resources.

Research data management (RDM) has gained popularity in East Africa. Despite its growth, the publication landscape remains unclear. This study maps the RDM publication landscape in East Africa. Specifically, the study establishes trends and country-wise contribution of RDM publications and types of RDM publications, identifies sources used to produce RDM publications, analyses the RDM citation distribution, and establishes the keyword analysis used in RDM publications. Four countries of the East African region with the highest number of data sets in the Data Citation Index were purposively selected. The advanced features of the Scopus bibliographic database were used to harvest RDM publications. Using Scopus, RDM publications were retrieved, capturing publication year, country affiliation, document type, and citation count. Findings indicate a growing RDM research trend but a low citation distribution. The study concludes that RDM is an emerging library and information science specialisation that contributes to knowledge and inspires further research.

This study was conducted at Dr. Magufuli Library. It sought to answer whether students using the library were satisfied with the Wi-Fi services and to what extent. Four research objectives were outlined: determining access level, reliability, coverage, and challenges facing students in accessing Wi-Fi services. The study employed a quantitative research approach and a case study design. The researchers distributed 150 structured questionnaires among students. Data collected through the questionnaire were analysed using Microsoft Excel and presented through various graphical representations. The results indicated a high level of satisfaction among students, with 81% agreeing with the Wi-Fi services provided. Most students accessed Wi-Fi through smartphones and personal computers. Additionally, 79% of respondents considered Wi-Fi to be highly reliable, indicating consistent connectivity when needed. The Wi-Fi coverage was reported to extend throughout the library. However, students identified slow internet speed as a significant challenge. Consequently, the researchers recommended increasing internet speed to facilitate quicker access to information, thus saving users' time. Overall, the study highlights the importance of ensuring efficient Wi-Fi services in academic libraries to meet the needs of students effectively.

Digital technologies have transformed the way people learn in the current age. Innovative multimedia online nursing and midwifery information resources have improved nursing education and brought about adaptive, interactive, and collaborative learning. This study aims to find out whether the online nursing information resources provided at Aga Khan University Tanzania are shaping the self-confidence of nurses and midwives in the digital era, to understand gaps and areas for improvement. This study used both quantitative and qualitative research approach were used. The researchers collecting data using online Google Forms, which were analysed thematically through Atlas ti. The results revealed that persistent access and use of online information resources largely shaped the self-confidence of nursing students during examinations and at the point of patient health care. The participants who navigate the online information resources often gained more knowledge and skills to apply at times of need, either during examinations or nursing and midwifery practices. The more knowledge and skills gained through the online resources and used, the more the student’s gained self-confidence. The participants reported that, they felt very confident because of their critical thinking skills, the informed decisions they made, and the problem-solving that made them confident. The most used resources were Health Internetwork Access to Research Initiative (HINARI), EBSCO host, Up to Date, Clinical Key Nursing and Clinical Key for physicians. Difficulties experienced by the students were unreliable and expensive Internet connections while on off campus, the long process of logging in, and subscription restrictions to some content were mentioned also as challenges.

OAIRs competence level among users plays a critical role in improving accessibility of institutional research productivities available in OAIRs. OAIRs competence enables easy use of OAIRs. However, in most of African institutions especially in Tanzania, the level of OAIRs competence among users in academic institutions is unknown. This study therefore was carried out to investigate the competency level in accessing institutional research productivities among users of academic libraries in Tanzania. Specifically, the study focused on examining the level of competency, assessing where users acquired skills of accessing institutional research productivities, establishing the attitude of library users towards acquiring skills and identifying constraints faced in acquiring OAIRs skills. The study employed a cross-sectional research design. Systematic random and purposive sampling procedures were used to obtain a total of 292 respondents and 8 key informants. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected from academic staff, research fellows and librarians. Structured questionnaires, interview schedules and content analysis were used to collect data. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS package V20.0 while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. Key findings indicated that 28.4% of the respondents are computer competent, information search literate (27.1%), competent in communication skills (27.1%), and competent in scholarly publishing and self-archiving (20.5%). Results indicated that respondents acquired skills of accessing institutional research productivity from librarians (22.6%), and library technicians (18.2%). Also results revealed that 57.9% were positive towards acquiring skills and 56.9% agreed that acquiring skills of OAIRs facilitates free and quick access. However, lack of awareness on presence of OAIRs (38.6%), unawareness of OAIRs policy (22.8%) and lack of budget for training and advocacy of OAIRs (19.3%) were constraints faced in acquiring OAIRs skills. The study concluded that the competency level on accessibility of institutional research productivity is still low among library users, even as the use of OAIRs in Tanzania is still low. The study recommends reviewing OAIRs policies for managing OAIRs especially putting up mechanism for enforcing training

Libraries are valuable sources of health information required for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases. Numerous studies have shown that libraries enhance access to and dissemination of health information, which is crucial for health sector development. Despite the importance and rapid growth of research in the field, researchers have made few attempts to systematically review and incorporate findings from previous studies on the role of libraries in health sector development. The main purpose of this study was to provide a better understanding and a detailed review of the current state of research on the contribution of libraries in health sector development. A systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA 2020 Methodological Framework. In this systematic review, data on the role of libraries in health sector development were collected, analyzed and synthesized from journal articles published in digital databases between 2014 and 2024 using prescribed procedures. The research field, publication dates, journal language and methodological characteristics were included in the analysis. The findings indicate that libraries contribute to health sector development through the dissemination of health information required for the prevention and management of diseases, health professionals’ development, promotion of health science research and community outreach programmes. Overall, the review indicated that several studies have been conducted on the role of libraries in healthcare settings, with most of them focusing on educational health institutions. Although these studies are relevant to the development of the health sector, more high-quality research is needed to focus on economic development aspect of the health sector.

This study looked at how community libraries might promote sustainable development in Tanzania, particularly focusing Arusha Region. These libraries, which serve as vital information, education and social cohesion hubs, address crucial local issues such as low literacy rates and restricted access to formal education, particularly in disadvantaged rural communities. A cross-sectional study approach was used to collect data from 110 respondents, who included library personnel and community members. The data shows that library resources, financial assistance, and social equality all contribute considerably to sustainable development, although literacy rates have a more complicated link. Also, information access, community engagement and social inclusion have no significant influence on sustainable development. The study emphasizes the necessity of using community libraries as change agents to promote social, economic, and environmental sustainability at the grassroots level. The report recommends additional financing for community library infrastructures and emphasizes on social equality.

This study evaluated the access to and utilization of institutional repository resources among postgraduate students at Mzumbe University in Tanzania. Specifically, the study aimed to determine the level of postgraduate students’ awareness of the repository, examine their access to and utilization of the repository resources and identify their perceptions of the factors influencing access and utilization of the repository at Mzumbe University. The study was guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology and utilized a mixed research design integrating both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. A semi-structured questionnaire and interview guide were used to collect data from 83 conveniently selected postgraduate students and two key informants from the library directorate respectively. Statistical Product for Service Solution Version 26 and content analysis were used to analyse quantitative and qualitative data respectively. The findings indicate that the majority of postgraduate students are aware of the Mzumbe University institutional repository, but their interaction with the platform is significantly low. The study highlights several factors influencing access to and use of the institutional repository. These factors include the institution’s management commitment to the repository’s overall performance, frequent power cuts and the availability of information and communication technology facilities. The quality of the uploaded resources and Internet connectivity also play a role in determining access to and use of the repository. Based on the findings, the study recommends the possible measures that institutional repository stakeholders can take to address.

This study aims to explore the deployment of My Library On Finger Tips (MyLOFT) at Mzumbe University (MU). Specifically, it investigates users’ awareness and perception of MyLOFT, its promotion, challenges, and strategies to maximise usage of the MyLOFT application. The study employed a blended methodology, combining qualitative and quantitative methods, to analyse 67 academic staff members’ experiences with the MyLOFT application at the selected University. Sample size determination utilised PPS and purposive sampling methods. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 20 and presented in graphs and tables, while qualitative data underwent content analysis and were presented in quoted statements. The study reveals that e- resource usage at MU was low before MyLOFT deployment, but increased after deployment. Word of mouth and email were effective in creating awareness and MyLOFT Student Ambassadors promoted the application. Users found features like Multiple Access and Save Content Off and Online as the most appealing. Challenges identified include technical issues, navigation difficulties, unclear instructions, mobile compatibility, and security. To maximise the MyLOFT utilisation, the application should include personalised content, resolving technical issues, utilising student ambassadors for promotion, incentivising usage, and improving the interface. The University should add relevant databases. Effective communication, user feedback, and impact measurement are essential for continual optimisation. This study therefore explores e-resources remote access applications in Tanzanian academic libraries, filling a research gap and providing valuable insights for future developments.

The rapid development of information and communications technology (ICT) has changed the nature of conducting research in most higher learning institutions across the world. This transformation has enabled libraries to harness the potential of technologies in providing research support services to researchers and postgraduates to improve the quality of research output. Despite the library’s efforts to provide research support services, most postgraduate medical students find research writing difficult, particularly when it comes to locating relevant literature from scholarly databases. The purpose of this research was to investigate predictive factors for the usage of e- resources and research support services among postgraduate medical students in Tanzania. The study employed a cross-sectional research design. A total of 317 postgraduate medical students were conveniently sampled from a purposefully selected health university. Using questionnaires and interviews, the research utilized the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to generate descriptive statistics and a coding strategy using ATLAS.ti software to analyze qualitative data. Moreover, regression analysis was used to determine the predictive factors influencing postgraduate medical students’ usage of e-resources and research support services offered at MUHAS library. Findings demonstrate that Information Literacy (IL) competency, research writing stage, e-resources accessibility, nature of research support services offered, ICT skills and individual experience were factors that contributed to effective e-resources utilization. Therefore, integrating IL skills, scientific writing and research communications into postgraduate curricula may enhance the effective use of e- resources. It is also important to improve library research support services to enable researchers and postgraduate students to produce high-quality research output.

The new era of providing education and conducting research based on Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT), a Chatbot OpenAI technology, is growing quickly. ChatGPT provides comprehensive support for education and research at different stages of the teaching and learning processes, and it helps in generating entire academic journal articles. The application of Chatbot OpenAI technology in education and research sparked a heated debate among scholars in Higher Learning Institutions (HLIs) about the future of education and research. Whilst some publishers question the authorship and integrity of ChatGPT-generated products, others accept its role as co- creator and co-author. Therefore, this paper explored the potential use of Chatbot OpenAI in education and its impact on research. The study used a comprehensive literature review methodology to identify the current practices and potential challenges associated with the use of Chatbot OpenAI in HLIs in Tanzania. Findings from this research demonstrate that the correct application of Chatbot OpenAI and other AI tools in education and research may significantly reduce the potential for human error and improve the accuracy of research results. Despite the positive effect brought by the application of Chatbot OpenAI in HLIs, there are some concerns about the ethics and academic integrity in academic and research outputs. Findings reveal that there is an increased risk of plagiarism and educational dishonesty as there are no existing anti-plagiarism tools that detect whether AI has been used in generating research or educational content. As such, the culture and habits of observing academic integrity in HLIs become jeopardised. The study recommends a

The study explored the undergraduate students’ perceptions and the utilisation of YouTube videos in enhancing the learning process at the Mwenge Catholic University (MWECAU). The case study research design was employed. The study used the sample size of 81 students obtained from a target population of 231 sociology and social work undergraduate students. Questionnaires and interviews were specific tools used for data collection. Quantitative data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21 software, while qualitative data obtained from interviews were analysed using the content analysis method. The findings indicate that 69% of undergraduate sociology students at MWECAU had a perception that YouTube videos are helpful sources of sharing academic information. It was also found that some undergraduate students taking sociology faced challenges when using YouTube videos, which hindered the flow of knowledge. The challenges include inadequate experience in using YouTube videos (52.3%), the teaching approach is teacher-centred only (49.2%) and technophobia (47.7%), among others. All these challenges act as obstructions for the students to utilise the YouTube platform to its maximum potential. The study suggests that lecturers should promote the use of YouTube videos for enhanced academic information sharing. Lecturers should also assess these videos and suggest reliable channels from which students can access pertinent and up-to-date study materials. These findings prompt higher learning institutions, specifically MWECAU to consider adopting a blended learning approach to facilitate effective knowledge delivery.

Robots, as automated machines, are valuable for the precise performance of various tasks in different organizations, including libraries. Despite this benefit, the extent of their acceptance among library staff is unclear. This study examines the perceptions of Mzumbe University (MU) Library staff on the introduction of robots. It aims to understand staff attitudes toward robotic technologies currently being introduced in libraries to aid library management in future decision-making. The study was guided by three specific objectives: to establish the awareness level of robotic technologies among MU Library staff, to explore their perceptions of introducing robots, and to identify challenges that may affect the implementation of robots at the library. A case study design and qualitative approach were employed, involving 52 respondents selected from the total MU Library staff population of 63. Data were collected through focused group discussions (FGDs), interviews, and observations. Qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis and presented through texts and quotations. Findings revealed that MU Library staff are generally aware of robotic technologies, with perceptions ranging from positive to negative. While some staff recognized the potential benefits of robots in reducing routine tasks and improving efficiency, others expressed concerns about job security, as robots might replace human roles. Observations further revealed a lack of preparedness in terms of infrastructure, such as unreliable power supply and insufficient internet connectivity, which could hinder the successful implementation of robots. Other challenges identified include inadequate ICT expertise, budget constraints, and the absence of policies guiding robotic use. The study concludes that for the smooth introduction of robotic technology, MU Library must address these infrastructural, technical, and financial challenges. Training should also be provided to library staff to equip them with the necessary skills to operate robotic systems and enhance service delivery for current and future needs.

The impact of the pandemic particularly COVID-19 has affected several services in almost all sectors including the delivery of library services in higher learning institutions. As such, the integration of social media was considered one of the measures that could enable academic libraries to deliver library services to meet the information needs of library users. Specifically, this study examined the types of social media employed, library services offered through social media, knowledge of librarians in delivering library services through social media, and the barriers that inhibited the deployment of social media in the delivery of library services. The study adopted a descriptive research design and collected quantitative and qualitative data using surveys (questionnaires and interviews). A total of 153 library staff were selected using census sampling technique while 7 staff members selected by purposive sampling technique from three academic libraries (Sokoine University of Agriculture, University of Dar es Salaam and Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Science). The findings indicate that whereas WhatsApp was the main social media, notification of new library arrivals, document delivery services (DDS) and current awareness services (CAS) as well as e-resources access information and details were the major library services delivered via social media platforms. The study also discloses that library staff had limited knowledge of the utilisation of social media in the delivery of library services. It was further identified that lack of social media literacy skills, resistance to change, poor funding and poor ICT infrastructure were the major challenges facing librarians in delivering library services on social media during COVID-19. The study recommends that training on the usage of social media in the provision of library services is pivotal in ensuring the effective delivery of library services during crises and emergencies. Also, library management should allocate an adequate budget for social media-mediated library services such as ICT devices and Internet connectivity, and develop enabling library policy for the effective utilisation of social media in library services.

The Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is driven by developments in ICTs particularly emerging digital technologies that blur the boundaries between physical, digital and biological systems. Such digital technologies include the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud Infrastructure, or cloud computing, big data analytics, Nanotechnologies, Advanced Robotics, Sensors, Blockchain and 3D Printing. ICT developments and 4IR technologies in particular, have impacted the conventional library processes, activities and services. All these continue to add value to libraries in diverse ways. There are numerous examples where 4IR technologies have been integrated into library systems. There are also many trends and opportunities fostered by emerging technologies and other compelling characteristics of 4IR. As a result, libraries are required to develop strategies to enable them respond to the demands, challenges and disruptive changes of the 4IR environment. This includes the need for libraries to re-examine the management and delivery of their services to proactively invest in ICTs, continuously evolve, become innovative and realign their practices. The new library philosophy in the 4IR era is “access rather than ownership”. There is a call for paradigm shift and for librarians to continuously acquire new skills to fit well in the changing work environment. LIS education systems must change their programmes and curricula to provide sufficient content and practices that will produce librarians with the necessary competencies. Moreover, continued capacity building and awareness raising is necessary among leaders and decision makers in the library sector.

The main objective of this study was to assess the level of mobile phone digital literacy skills of the fish farmers. Specifically, the study focused on assessing the level of mobile phone digital literacy skills of the farmers, exploring the influence of demographic data on the level of mobile phone digital literacy skills and identifying the types of information accessed through mobile phone among fish farmers. The study was carried out in two purposefully selected districts of Iringa Region, namely Killolo and Mufindi. The study involved 100 randomly selected respondents and employed a cross-section research design. It also employed quantitative and qualitative approaches in collecting data. Questionnaires, Focus Group Discussion, observation and key informants, interview were used to collect data. Quantitative data were analysed by using both descriptive and inferential statistics with the aid of SPSS version 20. Qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. Overall findings indicate that the level of mobile phones digital literacy skills were low. In addition, the study revealed that fish farmers were using mobile phones in accessing information on fishpond construction, fish feeds management and selection of improved fish species. Moreover, the income, age, sex and level of education was found to have statistical significant and positive relationship with the level of mobile phone digital literacy at p<0.000. Thus, it is recommended that information services providers and other responsible organs should empower fish farmers with training on mobile phone digital literacy particularly on communication, software and problem-solving skills. It is expected that this will encourage more farmers to utilise mobile phones for accessing fish farming information.

The need for equipping students in Higher Learning Institutions with Digital Literacy Skills (DLS) is considered one of the measures that can enable academic libraries to deliver library services during the time of the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. This study aims at answering the following question: What types of digital literacy skills and tools were used by academic libraries during the COVID-19 closure of the universities. It also aims at analysing the way digital literacy skills could be used to support library services during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Similarly, it examines barriers which inhibited the deployment of digital literacy skills during its outbreak. The study adopted a case study design while using a mixed approach to data collection. A total of 46 respondents were drawn from the population using both census sampling and purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected using interview–guides, questionnaires and documentary reviews. Qualitative data were analysed using content analysis while quantitative data were analysed using Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet. The findings indicated that academic library is required to cooperate with faculties and schools by deploying the following digital tools: e-learning platforms, increasing the use of social media, conducting webinars, updating the library website, encouraging the use of library e-resources and improving the library virtual reference services. The following barriers were strongly mentioned as inhibitors of equipping respondents with digital literacy skills: poor internet connectivity, family income status,

Development in information technology has universally led to an increase of the importance of the Open Education Resources Repository. This has been of great help in achieving the sustainable development goals on the promotion of quality education and supporting innovation in the community. The technology of open education resources repository has been prominent since 2010 and comprehensively adopted in developed countries. However, it has been dynamically improving in developing regions though its performance fairly convinces appreciations on the invested initiatives. This paper establishes the need to examine the users’ awareness of the repository, performance and influencing factors on the performance of open education resources repositories in developing countries. A systematic review of literature was employed in which 25 research papers were investigated. The papers were searched from four aggregate tools, namely Google Scholar, ResearchGate, OpenPraxis and Refseek. The Excel computer application software was used to analyse quantitative data whereas qualitative data were subjected to content analysis. Among other things, higher learning institution open education resource repositories in developing countries are becoming common among the academic community. Their performance is significantly remarked in erratic context between regions and diagnostically hampered by varying factors, including technological and infrastructural aspects, financial disputes, environmental and institutional issues. On this, the institutional management support committed to creating open access resources. These resulted to minimal satisfaction on the contribution of the repositories among the scholars. Such open education resources repository guidelines including policy, procedures and standards impacted the repositories performance. The paper encourages on the need for improving information resources acquisition, efforts on raising awareness, dissemination, advocacy, marketing, management and user support services. However, open education resources

This study explores the predicament professional librarians’ face in the academia in the digital era. The National Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (NACTVET) influences the removal of academic librarians’ cadre in institutions it accredits catapulting UTUMISHI towards removing it from scheme of services leading to the demotion of librarians or re-categorisation as administrative or faculty staff, respectively, losing their professional recognition. The study used a qualitative method research design to obtain data in eight selected Tanzania’s institutions. Data were collected using interviews with eight librarians comprising senior/managerial positions in these studied libraries; two UTUMISHI officials and two library professional association leaders. Data were analysed thematically and discussed based on the research objectives and emerging issues. The results show that some librarians had academic status whereas there was no such a cadre in other institutions. As such, most of the librarians were re-categorised as faculty members whereas some were demoted to administrative positions due to changes in the UTUMISHI system. Other institutions were unaffected as they did not have the academic cadre. Most librarians were dissatisfied with the job and experienced low morale after being re-categorised, which forced some to seek transfers to universities. Besides, the other librarians had to pivot career wise to fit in with faculty requirements whereas others were left in dilemma promised special salaries. All the hopes are on professional associations to see what can be done to restore the academic cadre as individual efforts are futile. Librarianship still supports low status in Tanzania and librarians cannot continue with the assumption that stakeholders know their importance; they must demonstrate it through marketing of the profession. This might involve restoration of the academic status cadre in NACTVET institutions through collective bargaining using professional associations. This will be of great help in ensuring professional sustainability, research output and status of librarianship in higher learning institutions and continual survival.

One of the core functions of an academic institution is to generate knowledge, disseminate to the intended audiences and preserve it for future use. Academic institutions are now establishing Institutional Repositories (IRs) to collect produced resources to facilitate accessibility, dissemination, utilisation and management of intellectual materials that are produced within an institution. The purpose of this study was to assess postgraduate students’ motives for utilising IR resources and also the challenges they encounter when utilising IR resources at the University of Dar es Salaam. This study was conducted using a descriptive study design whereby it used both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. The population of this study comprised postgraduate students, librarians and ICT personnel from the University of Dar es Salaam. A sample of 102 respondents was drawn conveniently and purposively for this study. Data were collected through questionnaire, interview, as well as a review of documentary sources. Quantitative data were analysed through a Version 16 Statistics Package for Social Science (SPSS) and qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. The findings indicate that access to full-text documents, the relevance of IR resources and easy searching of the materials in the repository system motivate the utilisation of IR resources. However, several challenges impede the utilisation of these resources including unreliable internet access, inaccessibility of full-text and lack of guiding policy have been revealed as the major challenges toward utilisation of IRs resources. The study recommends training postgraduate students on the general use of IRs. Also,

Digitisation projects are becoming increasingly popular in academic, public and special libraries. Libraries are either digitising previously acquired hard copies or building digital libraries or institutional repositories by submitting electronic copies to the repositories. Thus, digitisation of library materials is critical to increasing material visibility and accessibility. Digitisation has received attention with the goal of allowing greater access. Nevertheless, it is sometimes hampered or limited by a number of factors; they include existing policies, structures, skills and financial capability. The goal of this paper was to gain a better understanding of the strategies, challenges and issues involved in the digitisation of theses and dissertations through lessons learned from the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) library. This study sought to determine the successes as well as the difficulties encountered during the digitisation of theses and dissertations at MUHAS library and to recommend possible way-forward strategies. This paper used a mixed-methods approach, including participatory observation and in-depth interviews to highlight the challenges and successes of the MUHAS digitisation project. Purposive sampling was used to identify key informants who were previously and currently involved in MUHAS digitisation activities. In this study, six former project employees and eight current project employees were interviewed. The MUHAS Institutional Repository (IR) has 2,590 publications, 1,492 of which were theses and dissertations, accounting for 58% of all publications uploaded to the IR. On the other hand, hard-bound theses and dissertations converted to digital form accounted for 55% of all theses and dissertations. The project was the first in Tanzania to establish an institutional repository and the first to develop and implement an institutional digitisation policy. Nonetheless, the project significantly aided in raising the university’s research profile, as MUHAS was ranked first in the country in 2016. The lack of skilled personnel, slow internet connectivity, negative perceptions of library staff and insufficient equipment and facilities hampered the project. Nearly 85% of the institutional collection of theses and dissertations were successfully digitised by the MUHAS digitisation project. Regardless of the difficulties encountered, the project gained valuable experience on how to mitigate the ideal difficulties and issues.

Citation and referencing are paramount aspects of any scholarly and scientific writing. They are part of indications that the authors have done justice to the works of others and are one of the ways of avoiding plagiarism. This study was conducted to examine the extent to which postgraduate students at Mzumbe University adhere to the APA citation and referencing style in their dissertations uploaded to the Mzumbe Institutional Repository (MUIR) platform for the year between 2013 through 2019. This study employed a cross-sectional research design, which enables data to be collected at a single point in time. A mixed approach was used as the data collection method. A random sampling technique was used to select 128 dissertations from a population of 1056 dissertations uploaded in the MUIR between 2013 and 2019 for content analysis. A purposive sampling strategy was used to select a total of five postgraduate students and three lecturers who were involved in the interviews. Five research methods course outlines were also purposively selected to check if they contain topics or sub-topics on citation and referencing. Microsoft Spreadsheet was used to analyse quantitative data while qualitative data were analysed through content analysis. The findings show that a total of 70; 54.7 per cent of dissertations uploaded in the MUIR for seven years adhered to in-text citation APA style guidelines whereas 58; 45.3 per cent of dissertations did not adhere to the APA citation and referencing style. Major irregularities identified were unnecessary capitalisation, poor insertion of punctuation marks, incorrect use of ‘et al’ and lack of uniformity in writing the lists of references.

This study assessed the use of subscribed electronic resources by undergraduate students at Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA). The study aims at determining the students’ awareness, access and use of subscribed electronic resources and to examine determinants of the use of subscribed electronic resources. The study used a cross-sectional research design to collect data from 120 respondents using structured questionnaire as the data collection tool. Data were coded on Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The researchers calculated the frequencies, percentages and linear regression. Findings reveal that majority (90%) of respondents were aware of the availability of subscribed electronic resources. Furthermore, the most used e- resources were e-journal and e-books while the least used was e-dictionary. Furthermore, the results found that perceived usefulness and attitude significantly influenced students’ use of subscribed electronic resources. The study reveals that age and year of study influenced students’ use of subscribed electronic resources. The study concludes that usage of subscribed e-resources by undergraduate students was moderate. It is recommended that librarians in academic institutions should create regular creation of awareness on the subscribed e- resources to the library users. The study recommends that librarians, information science and educators who intend to promote electronic resources should ensure that they are useful. Moreover, creating awareness on the usefulness of electronic resources to change their attitude is another important factor. Marketing the electronic resources through outreach programmess and information literacy are necessary for all the students.

The advent of modern technologies, for example, artificial intelligence (AI) calls for innovations in the way information is accessed, stored and used. The librarians have long been conducting a variety of library-related activities like borrowing, locating and access of books in the library manually. AI offers support to some of the library activities through automation thereby reducing human workload and challenges. The reports from studies in emerging economies like Tanzania regarding the use of AI in libraries are nevertheless scarce. The availability of physical and wireless internet has eased and facilitated the change in how libraries should operate smartly. One of the innovations which can be tapped in our libraries is the use of security in securing library resources using radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. The new technologies are in many ways transforming the activities of libraries providing users with access to library resources from any place and anytime without being physically in the libraries. The suggested conceptual framework provides a platform for more debates and studies on the attaining of smart libraries using AI.

This paper insight into the assumptions, opportunities and challenges of the use of interactive and engaging applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in academic libraries in Tanzania. It determines assumptions and pitfalls inherent and the debate whether the technologies have effectively replicated academic libraries, library resources, services and operations in Tanzania. The inclusion criteria of the literature were assumptions, opportunities and challenges towards AI in academic libraries. The literature was searched from databases including Sage, Taylor and Francis, Emerald, Google Scholar, Research Gate and PDF Drive. The results were analysed, evaluated, compared, contrasted and discussed through the lenses of UTAUT theory. The results revealed that AI brings the world together in which people work and network in the integral function of providing library resources and services to library users. AI is an enabler for academic libraries to create library spaces, store, process, preserve, conserve, access and retrieve library resources and services timely with fewer costs. Also, AI lessens the inadequacy of funds to purchase printed materials in academic libraries, the lack of digital devices and limited spaces in libraries. AI has transformed the complex attitude and behaviors of library staff and users. Though, AI has created fears about employment opportunities for workers and library staff in particular. Besides, it was realised that library staff are mismatched with the AI in academic libraries due to the lack of awareness, inadequate qualifications and limited infrastructure in academic libraries. This review contributes to the practices, knowledge, theory and literature on the use of AI in academic libraries. The study proposed that there should be step by step towards interventions to introduce AI in academic libraries. The process should consider the environments, needs and socio-economic developments of the developing countries and Tanzania in particular.

This paper aims at examining the use of mobile technologies in the provision of school library services in Zanzibar. The paper seeks to address the following questions: to what extent are the teachers, students and library staff familiar with mobile technologies that support teaching, learning and library services? What are the common mobile technology services offered by libraries? How do these technologies help libraries to enhance services? and What are the challenges facing libraries in providing mobile technology-based services? The study was conducted in Zanzibar whereby 22 innovation hubs and 22 surrounding schools were involved. The study used a cross-sectional study design and a mixed-method approach was used to collect and analyse data. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 88 library staff. At the same time, a simple random technique was used to select 110 students and 88 teachers for this study. Data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires and face-to-face interviews. The results indicate that few libraries used WhatsApp groups to interact and share information with users while remarkable personal access to learning materials through educational mobile applications was found to have a positive impact among respondents. However, mobile-based library services were not provided by the hubs as well as the school libraries due to various reasons including the shortage of funds for purchasing mobile gadgets and bundles and inadequate skills for navigating mobile applications. The study recommends that school libraries need to adequately utilise emerging mobile technologies and take them as positive and useful in improving the standards of library services.

The study examined access to library information resources by university students during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Specifically, the study sought to identify the measures adopted by academic libraries to ensure the smooth delivery of library information resources to patrons, particularly students, identify technological tools that were employed by libraries to facilitate access to library information resources. Not only that but also, the study investigated the challenges faced by students in accessing library information resources. A systematic literature review approach following PRISMA guidelines was employed to investigate the findings of the relevant literature on the subject. The keyword search strategy was employed to search for relevant literature from four scholarly databases Scopus, Emerald, Research4life and Google Scholar. The relevant 23 studies were included fulfilling the set inclusion criteria. The presentation of the findings was arranged in a tabular form to provide a summary of each article to facilitate easy analysis and synthesis of results. The findings of this study revealed that the majority of the reviewed studies indicate that, during the COVID-19 pandemic many academic libraries in Africa adopted different approaches to facilitate access to library information resources by university students including expanding access to electronic resources off- campus, virtual reference services, circulation and lending services. To support access to different

Online learning environments have been adapted in higher education institutions around the world. However, it is not clear whether such adoption has yielded the expected effects on students’ interaction and higher order thinking. The purpose of this research was to investigate whether the use of online discussion forum would promote students’ interaction and higher-order thinking in an undergraduate health information literacy course. A total of 766 undergraduate students taking health information literacy course at MUHAS in a blended learning mode participated in the study. These students were engaged in five evidence-based practice topics using discussion forums - a moderate interactive learning environment as a pedagogical approach. Data included interviews and the content of online discussion forums. All qualitative data were analysed using ATLAS.ti software, Student t test was used to analyse the design effects realized over the three iterations and NetMiner 4- a social network analysis (SNA) software was used to analyze student interaction patterns. Results show that social interaction and students higher order thinking improved progressively over the three iterations. The changes in instructors’ pedagogical strategies and the actions of students to learn from each other contributed to the marked students’ social interactions and cognitive thinking. Thus, effective use of discussion forums in higher education can produce meaningful students learning interaction and higher order thinking.

Despite numerous challenges hampering the effective utilisation of electronic resources such as e-books and electronic journals in libraries, the demand for scholarly content and virtual reference services has steadily risen due to widespread application of information and communication technology. This study, therefore, explored social media platforms for academic libraries seeking to extend their presence beyond the traditional four walls using the Institute of Finance Management Library in Tanzania as a case study. Using a qualitative research approach, the study collected data using three focus group discussions held with purposively selected librarians and library staff at the IFM Library. Additionally, interviews were conducted with heads of department and section to obtain in-depth information. The study found that Facebook (95%, n=20), WhatsApp (90%, n=19), Instagram (81%, n=17), YouTube (67%, n=14), Twitter (57%, n=12) and Goodreads (29%, n=6) were the preferred social media platforms for providing services such as current awareness services, announcements and links to scholarly documents, video tutorials and virtual tours to the library, reference services and answering queries using mobile application (WhatsApp) as well as the establishment of the library book club to boost reading culture amongst students. Challenges included monetary costs, dormancy of accounts, trolling and bullying, and lack of management support. To remedy the situation, a library social media committee could be created in addition to advocacy for the selected social media, posting interesting and engaging content regularly, as well as blocking and reporting trolling and bullying.

This paper aims to examine the development of e-resources utilisation strategies for Higher Learning Institutions in Tanzania taking the case of Mzumbe University. Data for this study were collected from three major sources: five Higher Learning Institutions (HLIs) in Tanzania (UDSM, SUA, MUHAS, CBE, & NM-AIST), e-resources usage statistics from COTUL subscribed databases for the MU library and views from the MU library users. Usage statistics from COTUL subscribed e-databases provided quantitative data which were supplemented with experiences from five visited HLIs and views from MU internal stakeholder forums. The study outlined the roles and functions of all Mzumbe University organs in promoting and advocating the use of subscribed e-resources. The MU organs ranged from the university management, schools, faculties, and directorates including the library, institutes and the MU students’ organization. Specifically, MU Library was assigned the role of training users, creating online e-resource discussion forums, improving library websites, acquiring e-resources remote access software, promoting and advocating e-resources use, and employing knowledge ambassadors. The study identified challenges encountered in implementing the strategies which include poor ICT infrastructure, shortage of librarians with e-resources skills and interest, the meagre budget allocated to the library, insufficient specialized subject contents from subscribed databases, and poor cooperation between academic staff and the librarians. Since the library renders cross-cutting functions to the University, the task of promoting e-resources usage was recommended to be played by every organ at the University. The University is urged to speed up subscription /acquisition of e-resources remote access tools which will be enhancing e-resources utilisation. Additionally, the maximum utilisation of e-resources will be fully achieved by changing the mindset of lecturers and students from relying solely on print to e-resources. This study was not able to extract all usage statistics from the 24 databases at Mzumbe University because some database vendors particularly free databases do not release COUNTER statistics. Based on the findings of this study, Mzumbe University Library may: decide and inform COTUL on which e-resource databases to renew; propose measures to improve the usage of e-resources and lay down University-wide e-resource strategies to improve utilisation strategies. This paper is based on original usage statistics provided by the e-resource vendors in the COUNTER format and interviews administered to some selected respondents. Related literature has been reviewed and used, and appropriate citations and references have been acknowledged. The paper has been checked through Turnitin plagiarism detecting software.

The aim of this paper is to study the mechanism towards adoption of research data management in Zanzibar academic libraries. The study used a cross-sectional design whereby qualitative and quantitative methods were used to collect data. Survey-based questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data and interviews were undertaken to collect qualitative data. Forty (40) information professionals and twelve (12) IT technicians were selected through non-probability sampling technique under purposive random sampling from a population of 45 librarians and 16 IT technicians from five higher learning institutions in Zanzibar namely the Institute of Public Administration, Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy – Karume Campus, State University of Zanzibar, Sumait University and Zanzibar University. The response rate was 45 (74%). The findings show that ICT services and infrastructure in most of the universities were good, however, many universities face common challenge of low internet bandwidth. This may reduce the effectiveness of research data access among researchers. Findings also show that some academic libraries have started to manage research outputs through institutional repositories; however, none of them implemented research data management. Findings also show the existence of NICTNBB, ZICTIA, COTUL, TERNET and COSTECH can be taken as an opportunity for establishing a national wide dataset. Likewise, the majority of information professionals have limited knowledge about research data management and this was a major challenge facing academic librarians. The study recommends establishing a national discussion on research data management, creating awareness and developing strategies and guidelines on research data management and sharing in academic libraries in Zanzibar -Tanzania.

The university library needs to provide appropriate library services to motivate lecturers and students to use the services. The library has to offer services that relate with the current library users’ requirements. The services and facilities in the university libraries have a huge impact on the users’ satisfaction. This research is conducted to examine the current library users’ requirements in line with the changing nature of the university library. The study design was a quantitative phenomenology approach that involved lecturers and students from ten (10) campuses of the State University of Zanzibar (SUZA). Primary data were collected and administered by an online questionnaire. The findings of the study show that library users preferred computerized digital systems to traditional systems in accessing library resources. The findings also reveal that library users were satisfied and had knowledge of digital resources to improve their teaching, learning and research. The library users raised concern on the use of internet and journal articles to provide quality of their work. The conclusion drawn from this study is that the services offered by the university library should be improved with respect to the requirements of the current library users who are surrounded with digital native environments.

The purpose of this study is to determine the research productivity of the School of Business (SoB) academic staff at Mzumbe University between 2007 and 2020. The study employed a mixed approach in data collection. A total of 58 SoB academic staff were used in this study. Quantitative data were extracted from google scholar using the Publish or Perish (PoP) software. Qualitative data were collected using an interview guide. The quantitative data were analysed using a Microsoft Excel Spread sheet whereas qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. The findings indicate that a total of 253 publications were recorded for all 14 years yielding a low yearly average of 18.07 publications for all academicians and an average of only 4.4 publications for each SoB academician. Individual productivity analysis shows Dr. Hawa Tundui as the top-ranking academician with 20 publications. The distribution of citations for SoB academicians has Dr. Ernest Mwasalwiba ranking the first with 924 citations. The authorship pattern at SoB was dominated by single-authored publications 100 (40%) followed by two-authored publications 87 (34%) with an average of 0.49 degree of collaboration. Subject-wise distribution reveals that SoB academic staff are more interested in writing on Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and business area. With regard to the journal of preference, most of the SoB scholars prefer to publish in the Uongozi Journal of Management and Development Dynamics (UJMDD). This bibliometrics analysis was limited to SoB. Other studies should cover all MU schools, faculties, directorates and other campuses. To improve growth of research and publications at MU, collaborations in research and publications; formulating a friendly and favourable research policy; awareness creation about online research platforms such as registering on Google Scholar among MU academicians, Research Gate and ORCID among others and capacity building in publishing skills are highly recommended. This is the first time a bibliometrics analysis has been conducted to determine research productivity at MU and which covered a field of business in Tanzania.

A keynote paper exploring the centrality of information and knowledge in poverty eradication, drawing on literature and the author's community information research (2004-2008), and examining the contribution of information professionals to the UN Millennium Development Goal of eradicating extreme poverty and hunger.

An accountable government recognises the needs and interests of citizens and works towards advancing public welfare. Lack of accountability impedes both democracy and socio- economic development of any community. Citizen feedback is important as it boosts transparency and accountability in government. In this regard, ICTs can help expand the communication channel between the government and the citizens while fostering transparency and accountability in public services. This study proposes the use of hybrid ICTs as a tool for engaging citizens in monitoring their government. The evaluation of the proposed prototype shows that the use of ICTs in facilitating the citizens’ engagement is still in its infancy in Tanzania and that more research work is needed to explore their feasibility in the Tanzanian context.

The infiltration of Counterfeit Drugs (CDs) in the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain (PSC) is adversely affecting health sectors in their efforts to provide quality health services to the public. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), over 30 percent of anti-malaria drugs sold in the developing countries are substandard. Furthermore, the Confederation of Tanzania Industries (CTI) estimated that 60 percent of the medicines imported into Tanzania are counterfeits. Several initiatives have been taken in an attempt to curb the selling of CDs. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives remains questionable. There is an urgent need to formulate more effective strategies to secure the PSC by involving all stakeholders. In this regard, technology-based solution could be an effective uptake in mitigating CDs. This study assesses how the technology-based system can secure PSC and enable medical drugs verification in Tanzania. The proven adoption of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), especially mobile technology, could be leveraged to enable the enforcement of laws and regulations and advocate community awareness on medical safety. Keyword – Counterfeit drugs, Healthcare, Pharmaceutical supply chain. 1. Background The growth of the market for Counterfeit Drugs (CDs) continues unabated despite the regulatory efforts to curb it by governments and international organisations such as World Health Organization (WHO) and Interpol. CDs can be defined as drugs that are deliberately and fraudulently mislabelled with respect to identity and/or source (WHO, 1999;TFDA, 2003). WHO has discovered an alarming growth rate in CDs market especially in developing nations which has caused alarming rate of ill-health and eventually deaths amongst all level of human development (Agbaraji, 2012). And yet, the problem of CDs remains largely underreported and there has been little information on its prevalence. The few published estimates indicate that CDs prevalence globally ranges from one percent to 50 percent of the global medicine market (WHO, 2005). The developing countries are reported to be mostly 27 -­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐-­‐COTUL Proceeding

Internet technologies have changed the way we share, collaborate and disseminate information. The new era of web tools and technologies known as Web 2.0 has provided a set of tools and technologies such as social networks, blogs and wikis which facilitate people’s connectivity, knowledge sharing, and comment posting to the world community. This paper presents findings of a research conducted to determine the impact of these tools on the socio- economic development of the individual and the society. Data were collected through the use of structured questionnaire and interviews. The findings show that many participants used web tools and technologies for business purposes, education and governance, which constitute ways of getting income and skills necessary for the individual and community to function and contribute to the development of society. Web 2.0 was also found to maintain connectivity between family and friends who are separated by a distance. It can, therefore, be concluded that Web 2.0 tools help in the development process and, hence, play a role in the reduction of poverty.

This paper reports the findings of a study that assessed the accessibility and use of mass media by small-scale farmers in accessing agricultural information for poverty alleviation in Tanzania. The study was carried out in six purposively selected villages in Kilombero district, Morogoro region. The study used a sample size of 120 respondents. It employed a case study research design and a combination of quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Data were collected using documentary review, questionnaires, focus group discussions and observations. Quantitative data were analysed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.1 whereas qualitative data were subjected to content analysis. The results of the study show that radio was the most widely used information channel compared to television and newspapers in the study area. Generally, the agricultural information received by respondents through radio was relevant to their farm activities. Moreover, the agricultural information received by the respondents through television and newspapers was only partially relevant to their farming activities. The study findings also established that the barriers to accessing agricultural information through mass media in the study area were associated with poor power supply, poor signals, high cost of purchasing mass media sources, and inadequate feedback mechanism. Therefore, it is recommended that the government should support rural electrification and improve transport system so that modern agricultural mass media sources/facilitates can be more widely available and used in these areas than presently.

This paper presents the findings of a study which was conducted in Morogoro region to identify farmers’ current information needs. It also examines an approach that could enhance farmers’ access to and use of agricultural information with a view to promoting the practice of proactive information acquisition for empowerment and improved livelihoods. The study set out a participatory action research to pilot models for stimulating the proactive practices in accessing and utilising agricultural information. The model which was employed for this study evolved from the Village Information Centres (VIC) model and gave way to Community Information Centres (CIC) given the realisation that VICs have application and relevance to broader communities that may not necessarily be village-based. The study found that farmers’ information needs are not necessarily related to agricultural activities taking place at that particular time in a particular area. In some cases, exposure to information brought about information needs that were not expressed in the first place. This also implies that in some situations exposure to information is needed to stimulate a demand for information. The content, presentation style and language used were among the determinants influencing the demand for particular information. The study found adequate levels of literacy among smallholder farmers such that they could effectively access and make use of printed information. The findings also demonstrate the presence of reading skills that are otherwise underutilised. In conclusion, the study advocates for “pulled information” phenomenon as opposed to “pushed information” in building sustainable knowledge acquisition skills among smallholder farmers.

This study establishes the link between ICTs and poverty reduction strategy by investigating the extent to which implementation and utilisation of ICTs/e-records management systems enhances court operation in the Commercial Division of the High Court of Tanzania. The motivation of the study was to understand why the commercial court still utilises the conventional records management system despite the installation of new information and communication technologies and some training of staff in the various aspects of electronic records management. A total of 60 respondents were involved, 49 among them managed to respond to the study. Qualitative and quantitative methods were used to gather data for the study. Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS) version 1.9 and Audacity Open Source software were employed in data analysis. Despite constraints and challenges identified in the study, the results show that ICTs/e-records management systems improved access to information and documents; speed up court services; reduction of time delay of the court proceedings; job improvement; reduction of paper work and operating costs in the Commercial Division of the High Court of Tanzania. Thus, the study establishes the link between ICTs/e-records management systems and poverty reduction strategy. The findings suggest that the Judiciary should formulate an integrated ICT policy and harmonise the legal framework to give direction towards effective and efficient implementation and utilisation of ICTs in judicial proceedings and operations.

Information inclusion has direct impacts on the reduction of poverty. This is even more apparent with rural environment. Failure to consolidate information with strategies for poverty reduction produces severe negative consequences. In Zanzibar, the non-involvement of information professionals in the implementation and review of the PRSP (2010/11 – 2015/16) is believed to be one of the main causes of government failure in achieving the poverty reduction goals. This paper, therefore, is explores the concept of information divide in the execution of poverty reduction strategies in the context of rural Zanzibar. It is based on a study that was carried out to achieve the following specific objectives: to assess the comparable level of education of small-scale fishermen and farmers of different genders in the North ‘A’ District; to examine the range and accessibility of information resources by farmers and fishermen of different genders; to identify the link between socio-informational exclusion and poverty; to identify the challenges small-scale fishermen and farmers face; and to suggest measures that could be introduced to fight poverty through information inclusiveness. The study was a case study and employed mainly a qualitative method, using interviews to collect data. Essentially, the study’s analysis of the poverty problems in Zanzibar sought to detail the socio-informational gap between the “haves” and the “have- nots” and use the findings to make a number of recommendations.

Information and knowledge are increasingly being recognised as effective means towards poverty alleviation, especially in developing countries. The available literatures show that traditional methods used to focus on addressing the problem from the outside. One of the approaches to reducing poverty is the appreciation of the poor people’s potential in reducing poverty through searching for and using appropriate information and knowledge. This approach could lead to the identification of different categories of the poor and address problems each category was facing accordingly. This article presents the opinions of the poor people who took part in a study on how they use information and knowledge to reduce poverty. The insistence on the poor accessing and using information and knowledge for poverty reduction is motivated by the fact that change should start with the conscious individual then to society. However, to deal with this relentless social scourge a truly joint effort is needed including governmental effort.