Statistician decries ineffective data collection
Isaac Pinielo | Thursday August 11, 2016 14:53
The deputy statistician general, Burton Mguni said this lack of coordination leads to shortcomings in data inter-linkages.
Another related point on this challenge is the inadequacy of the coverage of statistics due to the ever-increasing costs of conducting surveys and collecting data. “This notwithstanding, the demand for quality environment is on the increase, particularly in view of the need to closely monitor and follow up on progress on development initiatives and programmes, including the 11th National Development Plan, the upcoming Vision 2036, the SDGs and Africa’s Agenda 2063,” he said. He said the data used for such monitoring must of necessity meet international standards so that it is comparable with that from other countries and is submitted for use in global monitoring as appropriate.
He further said there is greater need to increase collaboration across stakeholders on data provision not only for cost-effectiveness, but also to ensure that the data produced is coherent and meets international standards.
SB manager of statistical systems and external relations, Koontse Mokgwathi said for the purpose of producing official statistics, statistical bodies should consult with stakeholders and appoint committees to coordinate the activities and operations of the system.
She added that they should make rules and guidelines for the regulation and direction of any aspects of the system. “Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure quality in production of data. SB shall guard against unnecessary overlapping or duplication in the collection of or publication of the data and information for statistical purposes,” said Mokgwathi. She also noted that there is need to ensure comparability and integration of statistics compiled by agencies of the system, stating that the agency should ensure maximum utilisation of existing information and resources of data collection available in the system for statistical purpose.
According to Mokgwathi, SB shall develop strategies to enable the promotion of the use of statistics for evidence based planning and decision making, policy programming and monitoring and evaluation of policy and programmes. “SB will appoint committees to provide expertise and advice to SB and the national statistical systems (NSS) in production of official statistics,” she said.