Uganda’s top statistician, Dr. Chris Mukiza, the Executive Director of the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), is currently in New York City attending a high-level United Nations Statistical Commission meeting. The meeting brings together chief statisticians and data experts from around the globe to discuss advancements in statistical methodologies and data collection. Dr. Mukiza’s participation underscores Uganda’s commitment to improving its national statistical systems. Discussions will focus on how better data can inform policy decisions and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). His presence highlights Uganda’s growing role in shaping global statistical standards.
Strengthening Uganda’s Statistical Capacity
Dr. Mukiza’s agenda includes participating in discussions on modernizing statistical production and improving data quality across various sectors. He will be sharing Uganda’s experiences and learning from best practices implemented by other nations. A key focus will be on strategies to enhance the use of technology in data collection, processing, and dissemination within UBOS. This aligns with Uganda’s broader efforts to digitize government operations and improve service delivery.
The UN Statistical Commission meeting provides a crucial platform for Uganda to network with international partners and secure technical assistance. UBOS aims to leverage these collaborations to strengthen its capacity in areas such as data analytics and geospatial statistics. This is particularly important for monitoring progress on national development plans like the National Development Plan (NDP). Improved data will enable evidence-based decision-making across government ministries and agencies.
Focus on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
A significant portion of the discussions will center on the role of statistics in monitoring progress toward the SDGs. Dr. Mukiza will contribute to panels focusing on improving data availability and disaggregation for SDG indicators. This includes exploring innovative approaches to collect data on vulnerable populations and ensure that no one is left behind. Uganda has made notable strides in aligning its national statistical system with the SDG framework, but challenges remain in terms of data gaps and resource constraints.
Uganda’s commitment to the SDG agenda is reflected in its national planning frameworks. UBOS plays a critical role in providing the data needed to track progress on key indicators related to poverty reduction, health, education, and environmental sustainability. The insights gained from the UN Statistical Commission meeting will inform UBOS’s strategies for enhancing data collection and analysis related to the SDGs. This includes exploring the use of alternative data sources, such as mobile phone data and satellite imagery.
Digital Transformation and Data Innovation
The meeting will also delve into the transformative potential of digital technologies in revolutionizing statistical production. Dr. Mukiza will be participating in sessions on leveraging big data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning for statistical purposes. These technologies hold the promise of enabling more timely and granular data collection, as well as improving the efficiency of statistical processes. However, challenges related to data privacy, security, and ethical considerations must be addressed.
UBOS has already begun exploring the use of digital technologies in its operations, including the use of Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) for data collection. The insights gained from the UN Statistical Commission meeting will inform UBOS’s efforts to develop a comprehensive digital strategy for statistics. This will involve investing in training and infrastructure to support the adoption of new technologies. It also requires fostering collaboration between UBOS and other government agencies, as well as the private sector and academia.
Implications for Uganda
Dr. Mukiza’s participation in the UN Statistical Commission meeting is a significant opportunity for Uganda to enhance its statistical capabilities and contribute to global statistical discussions. The knowledge and partnerships gained will inform UBOS’s efforts to modernize its operations, improve data quality, and strengthen its role in supporting evidence-based policymaking. This will ultimately contribute to Uganda’s progress towards achieving its national development goals and the Sustainable Development Goals.
The meeting serves as a reminder of the critical importance of investing in national statistical systems. Reliable and timely data are essential for informed decision-making, effective policy implementation, and monitoring progress towards national and global goals. By actively engaging in international statistical forums, Uganda demonstrates its commitment to strengthening its statistical capacity and contributing to the global statistical community. This will lead to better policies and ultimately improve the lives of Ugandans.
