Accessibility and Usability of Government Websites in Tanzania

The government of Tanzania has been embracing information systems specifically websites to enlarge access to government services, lower administrative costs, and to increase public participation in decision making. As a result, almost every ministry, department, and agency (MDA) has developed a unique website. However, most of existing websites were developed without sufficiently considering users’ needs which indicates that they do have some usability and accessibility problems. This study used the SortSite tool to evaluate accessibility and usability of government websites taking a sample of 22 websites. The report from the SortSite tool was then checked against the W3 WCAG accessibility standards and Section 508 guidelines, and usability issues based on the US Federal (Usability.gov) guidelines. The results show that most of websites have many accessibility and usability problems that hinder citizens from using them. This study provides recommendations on how to improve usability and accessibility of these websites.