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ICT is widely used in Songea VICOBA operations

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Two men in casual clothing sit outdoors beneath large trees, looking at a smartphone screen together in what appears to be a community or rural setting.
Research area:Economics, Econometrics and FinanceMicrofinance and Financial InclusionInformation and Communications Technology

What the study found

The study found that Village Community Banks (VICOBA) in Songea Urban use several information and communication technology (ICT) tools, including MKOBA, smartphones, laptops, and projectors. ICT use is most common for communication, while use for financial transactions and record keeping is much lower.

Why the authors say this matters

The authors conclude that the findings show ICT has potential to improve the efficiency and transparency of financial operations in VICOBA. They also say the findings are relevant to policymakers and stakeholders working on financial inclusion and sustainable development in rural communities.

What the researchers tested

The researchers carried out a case study in Songea Urban, Southern Tanzania, using an explanatory and analytical research design. They worked with 40 respondents involved in VICOBA and collected both qualitative and quantitative data through questionnaires, observations, and interviews.

What worked and what didn't

ICT tools were widely used in several VICOBA activities, and 60% of respondents were satisfied with their use. The study reports that 55% used ICT mainly for communication, while only 12.5% used it for financial transactions and record keeping. Reported challenges included lack of digital literacy, poor internet connectivity, security concerns, and the high cost of technology.

What to keep in mind

The study is based on one case study in Songea Urban with 40 respondents, so the available summary reflects that setting only. The abstract does not describe additional limitations beyond the challenges reported by participants.

Key points

  • VICOBA in Songea Urban use ICT tools such as MKOBA, smartphones, laptops, and projectors.
  • ICT is used mainly for communication (55%) rather than for financial transactions and record keeping (12.5%).
  • About 60% of respondents reported being satisfied with ICT use in VICOBA activities.
  • Challenges include low digital literacy, poor internet connectivity, security concerns, and high technology costs.
  • The authors say the findings may help policymakers, stakeholders, researchers, and VICOBA groups.

Disclosure

Research title:
ICT is widely used in Songea VICOBA operations
Authors:
Titus Tossy
Institutions:
Mzumbe University
Publication date:
2026-03-09
DOI:
10.51867/ajernet.7.1.91
OpenAlex record:
View
AI provenance: This post was generated by gpt-5.4-mini (OpenAI). The original authors did not write or review this post.