Abstract:
The study investigated the factors influencing accessibility of rural information services in Tanzania. Specifically the study identified the
types of information services provided in rural areas; identified the sources of information used by rural people and determined the
barriers to accessibility of information services in rural areas in Tanzania. The study employed a meta-analysis methodology where
studies on information services in rural areas in Tanzania were analysed. Findings of the analysis were then compared and contrasted to
see the similarities and differences. It was found that there were several information sources used in rural areas ranging from simple face
to face communication to modern interactive ICTs including the mobile phones. Despite the availability of a number of information
sources, several factors limited the accessibility of information services in rural areas. Findings show that high illiteracy levels,
poor/unreliable information infrastructure, low income, lack of electricity and high cost of ICTs have limited the accessibility of
information services in rural areas. Others factors including the use of difficulty languages when repackaging information, lack of time to
access information and geographical isolation to have also limited some from accessing information services in rural areas. The study
recommends that in-order to improve the access to information services in rural areas, it is important to deal with both individual and
institutional factors which limit access to information. It is also important to conduct audience research oftenly that appropriate
information can be delivered to the right people.
