Information and Communication Technology usage in development of Microfinance Institutions Services in periurban Areas in Tanzania: A Case of Ilala Municipality, Dar-es-Salaam Region

Mwela, Tomaides R. (2014) Information and Communication Technology usage in development of Microfinance Institutions Services in periurban Areas in Tanzania: A Case of Ilala Municipality, Dar-es-Salaam Region. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) has been found to promote the dual objective of microfinance sustainability and outreach to the poor people. ICTs enable interactive communication and it promotes greater inclusion of individuals within networks and overcoming the barriers of physical distance and social standing. This research aimed at determining the impact of ICT usage i ndevelopment of MFIs in loan services. MFIs are working tremendously to the empowerment, poverty reduction and improvement of living standards for the poor people in peri urban areas. In this research study; questionnaires used to gather and MFIs. The data collected from the survey was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The analysis indicate that based on findings from this research there is need professional skills development in MFIs and to test the level of computer technology acceptance in microfinance business. In this research, the investigation has shown the extent to which MFIs use ICT to deliver business services and train staff and focus on ICT literacy, business applications, and planning. The study discovered that MFIs face mainly challenges in performing its duties regarding ICT usage which are lack of adequate facilities, bad perceptions of stakeholders, and usage of ICT in microfinance business is still low. Also ICT faced with high operating costs to provide financial services to the poor people and SMEs.The studies recommended that the ICT usage in development of MFIs is now being considered as one of the most important and an effective mechanism for poverty alleviation. It disseminate precious information on ways to improve the health, education, legal rights, sanitation and other living standards, which are of relevant concerns for the poor.

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