Information system for enhancing communication between members of parliament and citizens: a study of Dodoma, Tanzania
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Date
2025-08
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NM-AIST
Abstract
The evolution of information systems, including the internet and smart devices, has
transformed the way we communicate, access information, and connect with others.
Communication between members of parliament (MPs) and citizens in Tanzania remains
ineffective due to the reliance on mainly formal traditional channels such as public meetings,
physical visits, local government leaders, opinion boxes, visitor books, letters, broadcast
media, and social media. These methods are often hindered by poor attendance, delays,
unavailability of members of parliament, high costs, and limited access to smart devices and
the internet. Findings revealed that 42.9% of citizens took more than three days to submit their
concerns, 30.3% had never submitted, and 69% cited MP unavailability as the main challenge,
highlighting agreement from both citizens and MPs that existing methods create serious
obstacles. A literature review was conducted to identify technological gaps, revealing that
many proposed solutions are inaccessible to users without internet-connected devices. This
study developed the Public Participation Information System (PPIS). This hybrid platform
combines a web application for online users with a two-way messaging system to include those
without internet access or smart devices. The two-way messaging feature ensures inclusivity
and timely, interactive communication for all citizens and includes Swahili and English
support, with simple SMS interactions designed to accommodate users with limited internet
access and low literacy levels. Furthermore, a mixed research method was used to gather
system requirements from 177 participants, including both members of parliament and citizens.
Findings showed that 89.1% of citizens and 98.3% of MPs were willing to adopt the system.
The PPIS improved message delivery accuracy, reduced response time, and enabled citizens to
track their concerns. PPIS uniquely bridges digital divides by offering inclusive two-way
communication, enhancing accessibility, accountability, and citizen participation in
governance, which demonstrates readiness for pilot deployment.
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG-9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
SDG -10: Reduced Inequalities
SDG-16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
SDG-17: Partnerships for the Goals