The role of archives and records management legislation after colonialism in Africa. Case of Southern Africa
| Date | 11 March 2019 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/RMJ-09-2018-0024 |
| Pages | 210-223 |
| Published date | 11 March 2019 |
| Author | Nkholedzeni Sidney Netshakhuma |
| Subject Matter | Information & knowledge management,Information management & governance |
The role of archives and records
management legislation after
colonialism in Africa
Case of Southern Africa
Nkholedzeni Sidney Netshakhuma
University of Mpumalanga, Mbombela, South Africa
Abstract
Purpose –This paper aims to analyse the current Southern African countries’archives and records
management legislations to identify the gaps and challenges. It is important to assess the role played by
National Archives legislations within the preservation of heritage and history; private archives known as
liberation archives; the transfer of archives; the disposal and retention of records, access, copyright
managementand skills; and development of staff.
Design/methodology/approach –The study used a qualitative methodology through document
analysis, interviewsand observation. The sampling of the study comprised representatives fromthe selected
SouthernAfrican National Archives (South Africa, Mozambique,Botswana and Namibia).
Findings –The key findings revealedgaps of the archives and records management legislations in terms of
definitions,transfer, disposal and transfer of records and accessibility.Some of the Southern African countries
failed to use archivesand records management legislation to promote accountabilityand governance.
Research limitations/implication –The research is limited to the following countries: Botswana,
Mozambique,Namibia and South Africa.
Practical implications –Archive and records managementlegislation which has gaps creates problems
in terms of effectiveimplementation of archives and records management programmes.
Social implications –The failure by Southern African countries to revise their National Archives
legislationsand clarify the role of National Archives will lead to loss of archival materialsif not addressed.
Originality/value –Updated archiveslegislation contributes to the development of effectivearchives and
recordsmanagement programme.
Keywords Heritage, Archives, Colonialism, Institutional memory, National Archives act
Paper type Research paper
Introduction
This article aims to analyse the current selected Southern African countries (SAC) archives
and records management legislation (ARML) to identify the gaps and challenges to make
recommendations based on the findings. The enactment and implementation of
comprehensive, up–to date ARML is a prerequisite for the establishment of an effective,
integrated system for managing archives and records. Effective archives and records
management are guided by sound legislative frameworks which define records to avoid
ambiguity about the scope of the responsibilities of National Archives. ARML provides
exclusive authority to carry out archives and records management functions such as
acquiring private archives, appraisal and disposal of records, rights of inspection,access to
records and transfer of archives. The ARML providesa basis for detailed regulations on the
recruitment, appointment, promotion, professional qualification and training of archives
staff. The effective ARML can enhance governance and accountability. Effectiveness and
RMJ
29,1/2
210
Received17 September 2018
Revised6 December 2018
12December 2018
13December 2018
Accepted14 December 2018
RecordsManagement Journal
Vol.29 No. 1/2, 2019
pp. 210-223
© Emerald Publishing Limited
0956-5698
DOI 10.1108/RMJ-09-2018-0024
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