Information-seeking behaviour of Tanzanians in the time of COVID-19

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to investigate on access and communication of COVID-19 information among Tanzanians. Design/methodology/approach Quantitative methods were applied to identify a total of 636 respondents. Findings Results show that the majority (86.9%) of respondents seek information on COVID-19. Gender, age, education and marital status did not influence individual’s information-seeking behaviour. Respondents largely used social media, particularly WhatsApp, to communicate. Respondents prefer blending professional and traditional information to combat COVID-19. The majority (51%) of respondents indicated that COVID-19 information was not communicated ethically. Employed people are more likely to ethically communicate information on the pandemic in social media. Practical implications Findings imply that novelty of the pandemic has enhanced active information-seeking behaviour. Respondents rely on multiple information sources to seek and collaboratively communicate COVID information. Employment status is associated with respondents’ information-seeking behaviour. Audio-visual sources are mostly preferred and relied in communicating information on the pandemic. Social media usage has enhanced timely and appropriate decision-making measures to tackle the COVID menace. Level of education has an influence on the use of credible sources and ethical communication of information on the pandemic. Utilization of COVID-19 preventive information was not statistically associated with socio-demographic variables. Availability of information infrastructures, particularly the internet, influences access, use and clear informed decision on prevention and treatment of COVID-19 disease. Originality/value The study contributes to knowledge and literature on response and preventive measures on COVID-19 pandemic in developing countries.

An analysis of the nexus between youth urban mobility and COVID-19 trajectories for peace and development in Africa: Perspectives from Tanzania

“…Since Tanzania initially downplayed the severity of COVID-19 and did not impose strict measures to curb its spread, there was a lack of awareness of the seriousness of the disease all over the country, especially among the youth. According to a survey conducted by Elia [21] , 60% of youth in Tanzania believe that COVID-19 is not real and do not take any necessary precautions. However, due to the global deaths and the ripple effects of the disease, Tanzania eventually acknowledged the seriousness of the disease and imposed some mobility restrictions and other preventive measures in the country.…”

Association of digital health literacy and information-seeking behaviors among physicians during COVID-19 in Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study

“… 21 Physicians practicing evidence-based communication helps to provide valid and reliable health information concerning the pandemic to promote quality healthcare. 22 …”