Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-02-06 21:22:06
The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) and 12 United Nations (UN) entities have announced a joint project for data and statistics in the country. This strategic initiative is set to receive a budget of Shs 156.2 billion and aims to bring about significant change in the quality, relevance, and use of SDG data and statistics in Uganda. The programme, which has a duration of three years, was launched by the first Deputy Prime Minister, Rebecca Kadaga. Its primary goal is to enhance the capacity of the National Statistical System to produce, disseminate, and use data and statistics.
The first Deputy Prime Minister, Rebecca Kadaga, emphasized the critical stage at which Uganda finds itself and the importance of continuous planning, reflection, and decision-making for sustainable social and economic development. She highlighted the high demand and expectations for up-to-date statistical indicators and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to utilizing quality statistics to effectively manage resources and make evidence-based policy and decision-making at all levels.
Amos Lugoloobi, the state minister of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, expressed his belief in the transformative potential of the joint programme, stating that it will revolutionize Uganda’s national statistical system by incorporating administrative and citizen-generated data into official statistics. He also pointed out the relevance of the initiative in light of the upcoming 11th National Population and Housing Census, which is a significant undertaking that requires adequate resources and will serve as a baseline for monitoring major statistical indicators.
The joint programme for Data and Statistics has been described as essential and timely in the context of Africa’s collective efforts towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It is expected to enable the continuous measurement of the outcome of efforts towards the SDGs at both individual and collective levels. Chris Mukiza, the executive director of UBOS, emphasized the importance of bringing the entire National Statistical System (NSS) to the same wavelength and the critical role of quality data at all levels.
The implementation of the joint programme is projected to create public awareness about data and statistical programmes, disseminate the findings of the status review of data and statistics in Uganda, reinforce the vital role of data and statistics in tracking and accelerating progress on SDGs in Uganda, and build new partnerships along the statistics value chain. It is seen as a fundamental step in enhancing the capabilities of the National Statistical System to generate quality data.
In line with these efforts, the 11th National Population and Housing Census is scheduled to be conducted in May 2024, with Census Night designated for May 9th and 10th. The rallying slogan for this important event is “It matters to be counted!” The census is expected to provide essential data for monitoring and measuring progress towards the achievement of national development goals and the SDGs.
In conclusion, the joint programme for Data and Statistics in Uganda represents a significant investment in the country’s statistical capacity and holds the potential to bring about transformative change in the generation and use of quality data. With a focus on the upcoming census and the broader goals of sustainable development, the programme is poised to play a crucial role in shaping Uganda’s data landscape for years to come.
Read Original article on The Observer
