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Information Technology for Development

Author ORCID Identifier

Auxilia Nyaukaya Kaunda: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7679-9475

Tiwonge Davis Manda: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2931-4241

Jens Johan Kaasbøll: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9666-0887

Abstract

Data use challenges in Malawi's Health Management Information Systems are presented. The qualitative analysis of the influences of institutional factors on data use in health management decisions reveals the inadequacy of the Ministry of Health’s regulations. This gap, coupled with influences of partner organisations' demands and practices, leads to a proliferation of diverse data policies, norms and practices. The resulting lack of standardisation poses significant challenges in integrated data use across the health sector. Arguably, the MoH must enforce a robust regulatory framework to ensure the legitimacy of all health sector organisations with respect to existing policies. Furthermore, by strategically leveraging professional networks and fostering collaborative norms with local and global partners, the MoH can establish an environment for emulating best data use. This research provides empirically grounded insights into the institutional factors shaping the use of health management information system data, thereby contributing to the Information and Communication Technology for Development literature.

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