Abstract:
Proper management of records is crucial for good governance as well as the attainment
of human rights in all societies. However, the mismanagement of records in most
institutions today continues to undermine human rights. The aim of the study was to
investigate the extent to which records management underpins human rights activities
undertaken by Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) and to make
recommendations aimed at enhancing human rights through the strengthening of
records management.
The specific objectives of the study were to: conduct business process analysis in order
to establish the human rights activities undertaken by KNCHR and the types of records
created or received; establish what records are considered useful in upholding human
rights at KNCHR; establish the policies and procedures put in place by KNCHR and the
extent to which they safeguard KNCHR records and information. The study also sought
to identify challenges faced by human rights officers when obtaining information
pertaining to human rights and to suggest a records management framework for
managing human rights related records at KNCHR.
The study was based on two models namely: the Records Continuum Model and the
Calvert-Henderson Human Rights Indicator. Literature review was structured around
records management and human rights themes. The study population sample size
constituted thirty two (32) respondents drawn from KNCHR headquarters. The study
utilized face-to-face interview and analysis of documentary sources. Qualitative and
quantitative approaches were used to analyze, present and interpret data.
Key findings of the study showed that records underpinned all the activities at KNCHR,
provided evidence and led to the protection of human rights. The study established that
KNCHR was faced with various challenges such as limited funding and inadequate
records management staff, issues that needed to be addressed urgently. The study
concluded that there was a strong connection between sound records management and
human rights. The study recommended development of policies and procedures to
provide a holistic way of managing records at KNCHR.