A framework for public digital archives administration in Zambia : current practices, procedures and prospects.

The aim of this study was to establish the framework for digital archives administration in Zambia, focusing on the current practices, procedures and prospects. A case study design using concurrent mixed research methods was adopted for this study. Purposive, and simple random sampling techniques were used to select 13 archivists and 30 users respectively. Data were collected using closed and open ended questions and scheduled interviews. Quantitative data was analyzed using statistical centrality, position and variability with aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 26 for descriptive statistics for easy interpretation and analysis of data, while content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. The study established that the National Archives of Zambia was yet to develop standard procedures , manuals and policies for the adminstration of digital archives. Although, the National Archives of Zambia draws its manadate from the National Archives Act of 1995 CAP 175. Archivists indicated lack of digital skills required in processing digital skills. The study recommended that there was need to develop institutional policies and procedures to guide the process of digital archives administration, and revise the National Archives Act of 1995. In addition, there was need to train archivists in handling of digital archives. The study further recommended a model for adoption by the National Archives of Zambia.