Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Date of this Version
Summer 7-1-2023
Document Type
Article
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Every organization requires records. Transparency, accountability, and efficient service delivery are all enhanced by effective records management. The capacity to exercise one's right to access records is contingent on effective records management and its availability in government ministries and public bodies. The study investigated the records management and the right to information in some selected metropolitan assemblies in Ghana. These selected metropolitan assemblies include the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, Tamale Metropolitan Assembly, and Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly. A survey research design was used to carry out the study. A total of 80 participants were used for the study. Questionnaires were used as the data collection instrument which resulted in a 100% response rate. Descriptive analysis was used for the findings which revealed that the assembly manages and keeps their records updated and records are restricted to the public domain, there is also an association between restrictions and access to records of the assembly, additionally, the majority of the staff are familiar with the assembly's records management legal framework, and this majority of people were aware of the importance of maintaining and disposing of manual and electronic records. Also, majority of the respondents are aware of the Freedom of Information Act. However, majority of the respondents also indicated that there were no preparations made in the metropolitan assemblies towards the implementation of the Right to Information. The study recommends that the metropolitan assemblies include a records management budget in the entire budgeting structure of the assembly.