Uses of Knowledge Management Systems in the African Context: Implementation Gap, Challenges and Prospects

Abstract

This paper analysed 30 NGOs based in Tanzania so as to establish the Digital Knowledge Management gap that exists to their systems. In addition, the paper used the literature of the African origin to determine challenges facing organisations in the implementation of Digital Knowledge Management Systems; this was followed by highlighting opportunities for enhancing the use of Digital Knowledge Management Systems within the continent. The study was descriptive in nature. Results confirmed that Knowledge Management Systems owned by organisations do not meet minimum technical criteria. In addition, there were challenges associated with how to work with the information, there were challenges on how to manage Knowledge Systems, and challenges on how to deal with the technology. The following are the opportunities for enhancing Digital Knowledge Management - the use of Open Sources, engaging higher learning institutions in knowledge management issues, and researching for contents relevant to NGOs.