Key Challenges Faced When Preserving Records in Traditional Councils During the 4th Industrial Revolution

Abstract

The 4th industrial revolution (4IR) has brought significant technological advancements that have impacted various sectors, including governance and record-keeping. This chapter examines the challenges faced by traditional councils when preserving records during the 4IR. The chapter adopted a desktop research methodology. The data were subjected to substantive and extensive analysis through the instrumentality of content validity, content analysis, and textual criticism to establish facts that defend or refute the hypothesis. The study revealed that traditional councils lack the necessary infrastructure and resources to digitise records, leading to concerns about data loss, system failures, and cybersecurity threats. In essence, the councils are still struggling to protect and secure the records preserved in their custody; as such, council members need digital literacy training. The study recommends strategies that traditional councils should use to preserve records during the 4IR.