A Framework for Electronic Document Management in the Implementation of E-Government in Kenya

Abstract

The implementation of Information and communication technology through e-government has proven to be effective in service delivery in many governments. A lot of developing countries are at risk of failing to implement their e-government services because of lack of proper guidelines which guide proper storage and management of electronic records. This paper aims to bring to light the significance of framework in the management of electronic records of profound e-government in Kenya implementation. This paper analyzes various secondary resources to reflect on the importance of electronic records vis-à-vis the support of egovernment in Kenya and why there is need to have a guideline in managing electronic records. Through ICT Authority (ICTA), the Kenyan government has developed some form of framework which guides the implementation and the requirements of managing electronic records management. However, there are no policies and regulation that directs the creation, storage, maintenance, dissemination and disposal of electronic records produced by various government institutions in Kenya. The manner in which electronic records are managed in government institutions is a recipe for disastrous e-government. Owing to the fact that advancement in technology is taking place at a high speed, the use of electronic records in government institutions will rise. This means that there is need to have adequate policies and guidelines that cover all facets of records management particularly electronic records management to foster profound government services through egovernment. After the adoption of Kenya vision 2030, Information and communication technology has been exploited in order to promote the efficiency and effectiveness in government administration. This paper recommends that The Kenya National Archives and Documentation Services (KNADS) needs to come up with a comprehensive policy for managing electronic records across all government institutions. The paper also recommends the importance of Digital achieving all government records into one platform controlled by the KNADS for effective and easier management. Keywords: Electronic Records Management, E-Government, Framework, Kenya