Knowledge sharing practices in Tanzanian public institutions focused on the conservation and management of natural resources

Knowledge sharing is vital for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of organizational operations. However, a major challenge facing most public institutions today is the loss of knowledge when skilled or experienced personnel retire or take unexpected leave, which is essential for ensuring continuity and preserving valuable knowledge. However, no studies have explored the knowledge-sharing practices in public institutions based on natural resource management. This study aimed to examine the channels used for knowledge sharing, the factors that influence this sharing, and the challenges that hinder knowledge-sharing practices in public institutions, with a specific focus on the natural resources management and conservation sectors. Based on the organizational conversion (OKC) theory, the study employed a cross-sectional design with a mixed-research approach and utilized both simple random and purposive sampling techniques to select a sample of 113 respondents from the target population of subordinate staff and managerial staff, as key informants, from the Tanzania Wildlife Authority (TAWA) and the Tanzania Forestry Research Institute (TAFORI). Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews, then analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics in IBM SPSS version 20. Findings indicate that collaboration and informal discussions are the most effective channels, with strong positive beta coefficients and statistically significant effects (p<0.05). The study also highlights technological infrastructure, organizational structure, and leadership support as influential factors with strong statistical significance (p<0.05). However, technological limitations and political interference remain major barriers. Based on the study findings, the study recommends that improving knowledge sharing in these sectors requires investments in technology, promotion of transformational leadership, implementation of strategic policies, and capacity-building programs. Strengthening these elements is crucial for maintaining institutional knowledge and ensuring effective management and conservation of natural resources in Tanzania.