IICD supported project: District computerization Kinondoni

Countries: Tanzania [TZ]
Sectors: governance

Summary

The project is an outcome of the National ICT Roundtable held in Dar es Salaam in July 1998. The drive for decentralization gives the project a sense of urgency. A study revealed that most of the functions carried out by the district commissioner's office are ineffective and inefficient. Weaknesses include limited transparency due to a lack of information. No free flow and access to information means that those concerned can neither make the right decisions nor monitor relevant developments. This cripples and impairs strategic vision. Also resource utilization tumbles to a low efficiency.

Update

Updated: 2006-08-03

The pilot project is completed. An evaluation took place
and a researcher drew the lessons learnt. Kinondoni received
representatives from other districts to exchange on their achievements.
Training is continuously ongoing. The municipality provides means from
its modest budget for a gradual expansion. As the district comprises 27
wards additional assistance is required also for the development of
applications and services for the public. A first version of a
follow-up project is ready. The objective is to upscale the project to
the overall district. To integrate and refine the project a task force
of Kinondoni officials and councillors is constituted. They will rework
the project step by step. The municipal IT officer will devote 50% of
his time to project. Also a committee will be formed to a assure
standardisation in software and linkages with the sectoral ministries.

Objectives

The goal of the project is to bring about good governance in the Kinondoni District by harnessing information for decision-making through the use of ICT's (information and communication technology). The project is considered a small pilot, paving the way to set-up of a district-wide model.
Key elements are:

• Improved data- and workflows with emphasis on needs at operational levels. This will stimulate the effective use of data and the accuracy.
• Enhance storage and accessibility of data,
• Improve data analysis and decision-making at district level based on relevant data from the most relevant sectors.

The project focuses on data from three selected areas: education; health; and birth, marriage and dearth registration. First the district staff will be trained and equipped with computers and a local network. Secondly the efficiency and effectiveness of capturing and processing information is improved. A third step is to utilise this information for improved decision-making. An important aspect of the project is to sensitise Government on the possibilities of ICT to improve it's functioning.

Fees charged to beneficiaries could be a way to render the information services sustainable. This option is thought of, but not put in practice yet.

Development Impacts

Being a model, the impact will be limited on the short term. However improved decision-making could result in a better resource use, increased output of staff and increased dedication. On the longer term, it will prove essential to making decentralization viable in a large country like Tanzania. The increased transparency and accountability will enhance democratic processes.

Market and finance

Benefits stem from costs savings. Levies on services provide could generate additional income. This has not been tested for yet.

Budget

Financing Plan:
Own contribution	not quantified
External Funds:
IICD
	38
Total	38

Project Owner : Municipality of Kinondoni,
COSTECH

Project Partners : IICD

Project Contact : IICD