Loading...
A knowledge management framework for improving emergency And crisis response in Zimbabwe
Author(s)
Matekenya, Teurai
Date Issued
2024
Type
Thesis
Publisher
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Abstract
This study aimed to develop a Knowledge Management (KM) framework that will aid
coordination and collaboration among the disparate emergency responders in Zimbabwe. The
research employed a multi-theoretical approach, utilising the Actor Network Theory,
Structuration Theory, and the 7S Model as both theoretical and analytical frameworks. This
integration of complementary theories provided a robust and multidimensional lens to examine
the complex dynamics of disaster response and KM. The study adopted critical realist ontology
and epistemology. A case study approach was used using the Department of Civil Protection.
The Design Science Research methodology was used together with the participatory action
research. Multistage sampling techniques using purposive and convenience sampling were
employed to identify the participants in this study. Interviews were used to collect the data and
26 interviews were conducted until data saturation was obtained. Data was analysed using
ATLAS.ti.24. The following actions were identified as coordination mechanisms that the DCP
is currently employing: the civil protection structure, how disaster information flows, how
disaster knowledge is managed, capacity building, the adoption of the Incident Command
System, the use of Memorandum of Understanding, the use of Standard Operating
Procedures as well as debriefing and knowledge sharing. The barriers that were identified as
hindering effective coordination and collaboration among responders were the structure of the
DCP, the way disaster communication takes place, a low e-government uptake, a lack of
resources, culture and poor disaster KM. The KM strategies that were recommended include
developing a single disaster knowledge repository, investing in indigenous knowledge-based
early warning systems, capacity building, adopting technologies in disaster response,
engaging in partnerships for KM, governance and fostering a knowledge culture. The findings
of the study resulted in the development of a novel KM framework that facilitates a more
structured approach to disaster coordination. The framework is based on four interconnected
components: knowledge capture and acquisition, knowledge storage, knowledge processing
and analysis and, lastly, knowledge sharing, transfer and dissemination. The framework
hinges on an information technology infrastructure backbone, supporting the KM cycle. The
DCP can use technology to gather and capture disaster information and knowledge, store,
process and analyse the information and also disseminate the information. However,
technology alone does not guarantee effective emergency and crisis coordination. Supporting
structures need to be in place, and these include: structure, leadership, change management
and communication, capacity building, governance and compliance and monitoring and
evaluation. The framework was validated using expert interviews.
coordination and collaboration among the disparate emergency responders in Zimbabwe. The
research employed a multi-theoretical approach, utilising the Actor Network Theory,
Structuration Theory, and the 7S Model as both theoretical and analytical frameworks. This
integration of complementary theories provided a robust and multidimensional lens to examine
the complex dynamics of disaster response and KM. The study adopted critical realist ontology
and epistemology. A case study approach was used using the Department of Civil Protection.
The Design Science Research methodology was used together with the participatory action
research. Multistage sampling techniques using purposive and convenience sampling were
employed to identify the participants in this study. Interviews were used to collect the data and
26 interviews were conducted until data saturation was obtained. Data was analysed using
ATLAS.ti.24. The following actions were identified as coordination mechanisms that the DCP
is currently employing: the civil protection structure, how disaster information flows, how
disaster knowledge is managed, capacity building, the adoption of the Incident Command
System, the use of Memorandum of Understanding, the use of Standard Operating
Procedures as well as debriefing and knowledge sharing. The barriers that were identified as
hindering effective coordination and collaboration among responders were the structure of the
DCP, the way disaster communication takes place, a low e-government uptake, a lack of
resources, culture and poor disaster KM. The KM strategies that were recommended include
developing a single disaster knowledge repository, investing in indigenous knowledge-based
early warning systems, capacity building, adopting technologies in disaster response,
engaging in partnerships for KM, governance and fostering a knowledge culture. The findings
of the study resulted in the development of a novel KM framework that facilitates a more
structured approach to disaster coordination. The framework is based on four interconnected
components: knowledge capture and acquisition, knowledge storage, knowledge processing
and analysis and, lastly, knowledge sharing, transfer and dissemination. The framework
hinges on an information technology infrastructure backbone, supporting the KM cycle. The
DCP can use technology to gather and capture disaster information and knowledge, store,
process and analyse the information and also disseminate the information. However,
technology alone does not guarantee effective emergency and crisis coordination. Supporting
structures need to be in place, and these include: structure, leadership, change management
and communication, capacity building, governance and compliance and monitoring and
evaluation. The framework was validated using expert interviews.
Additional information
Thesis (Doctor of Information and Communication Technology (ICT))--Cape Peninsula University of Technology, 2024
File(s)![Thumbnail Image]()
Loading...
Name
Matekenya_Teurai_220315787.pdf
Size
6.2 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum
(MD5):93243794de57ca522d80e93de005198b