High-quality, easily accessible multisectoral data enable a clearer understanding of countries’ macroeconomic situations. Achieving this, however, requires a technological leap that many countries have yet to make. Ethiopia has chosen to make the leap. 

Ethiopia is accelerating the digital transformation of its statistics service to enhance data collection and analysis capabilities.

Planning and Development Minister Fitsum Assefa announced this during her opening address at the 9th African Statistics Forum on Wednesday, October 30. The goal is to improve data quality, accessibility, and leverage innovative technologies to diversify and optimize information sources.

"We must embrace technology and digital tools to improve the accuracy, accessibility, and timeliness of our data, ensuring that we meet the growing demands for high-quality information at both the national and global levels," said Fitsum Assefa, underscoring Ethiopia's commitment to becoming a key player in the field of statistics.

This initiative is part of Ethiopia's National Statistics Development Program, which integrates advanced technologies such as digital geospatial systems and mobile data collection tools. Supported by both national and international institutions, this modernization project aims to make Ethiopia's statistical infrastructure more responsive and better suited to the country's complex data needs.

The digitalization of statistics aligns with a broader continental effort led by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), which has created a roadmap to modernize African statistical systems by 2030. By promoting the adoption of international standards, UNECA seeks to equip African countries with reliable data systems, crucial for guiding sustainable development and enabling informed, data-driven decision-making.

Samira Njoya