Management of financial records at the Marondera Municipality in Zimbabwe

Abstract

This study examines the management of financial records at the Municipality of Marondera. A qualitative case study design with an interpretevist world view was used in this exploratory study. Interviews and document analysis were employed as data gathering techniques. The sample was purposively selected from key financial and records management staff at the municipality and the National Archives of Zimbabwe. The major finding in this study was that financial records were not properly managed. This was evidenced by a large number of records of enduring importance which were intermingled with those of transitory value. Findings revealed that staff were not trained to effectively manage financial records. Furthermore, there was no clear framework or programme within which financial records were managed. There was some disconnect between the municipality and the National Archives of Zimbabwe. The researchers recommend that the municipality should employ qualified and experienced records personnel to design and implement a proper financial records management programme in compliance with relevant legislation. The municipality should also develop an integrated framework for managing its records in general and financial records in particular. The municipality should also seek to work with the National Archives of Zimbabwe so that it gets guidance on the management of its records, especially with regards to matters pertaining to retention, appraisal and disposal of financial records.