In her opening speech at the 9th African Statistics Forum, Fitsum Assefa, Minister of Planning and Development, announced that Ethiopia is working towards building a robust statistical system on the continent. “This move is part of the country’s broader efforts to strengthen its statistical capacity and contribute to Africa’s development,” Fitsum added.

According to the minister, by digitising the statistical system, Ethiopia aims to improve data quality, increase accessibility and use innovative technologies to strengthen sources of information. This is reported by Fana Broadcasting Corporate, a partner of TV BRICS. Under the National Statistics Development Programme, Ethiopia is undertaking initiatives aimed at data-driven policymaking and sustainable development by enhancing the information environment, the minister said.

The government, in collaboration with national and international institutions, is introducing advanced technologies such as digital geospatial systems and mobile data collection systems that are helping the country to build a national statistical system. Africa can improve its ability to collect, analyse and effectively use data by strengthening continental, regional and national statistical systems, which will ultimately lead to better informed decision-making and improved governance.

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