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Leveraging on hybrid ICTs for Improved Government Transparency, Accountability and Citizen Engagement

Deo Shao

Abstract

An accountable government recognises the needs and interests of citizens and works towards advancing public welfare. Lack of accountability impedes both democracy and socio- economic development of any community. Citizen feedback is important as it boosts transparency and accountability in government. In this regard, ICTs can help expand the communication   channel   between   the   government   and   the   citizens   while   fostering transparency and accountability in public services. This study proposes the use of hybrid ICTs as a tool for engaging citizens in monitoring their government. The evaluation of the proposed prototype shows that the use of ICTs in facilitating the citizens’ engagement is still in its infancy in Tanzania and that more research work is needed to explore their feasibility in the Tanzanian context.

Keyword: Citizen Engagement, Accountability, Transparency, e-government.     

Proceedings of The 1st COTUL Scientific Conference Held On 25th – 28th November 2014