Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
ZIMBABWE today joins the continent in marking African Statistics Day 2025, highlighting the critical role of data and statistics in shaping policies, driving economic growth and improving living standards.
This year’s theme, “Leveraging innovations in data and statistics to promote a just, peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous society for Africans,” underscores the importance of technological advancements in data collection to inform sustainable development across the region.
Observed annually on November 18, African Statistics Day is a key occasion for raising awareness about the significance of statistics in addressing the continent’s socio-economic challenges.
The 2025 theme is aligned with the African Union’s broader vision of “Justice for Africans and people of African descent through reparations”, calling for data-driven solutions to the continent’s most pressing issues, including peace, governance, and economic inequality.
In a statement, Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat) director-general Mrs Tafadzwa Bandama said the country has made efforts to modernise its national statistical system.
“Statistics are a fundamental tool for informing policy decisions that shape the future of our nation,” she said.
“As we celebrate African Statistics Day, Zimbabwe is committed to using cutting-edge technologies to strengthen our data systems and ensure that we have reliable, timely, and accurate information to guide development.”
She said several innovations that were already transforming the country’s statistical practices.
One of the key advancements was Zimbabwe’s adoption of computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI) for surveys, which has significantly improved the efficiency and accuracy of data collection.
This innovation allowed ZimStat to monitor progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and track the implementation of the National Development Strategy (NDS1) while providing a foundation for the next phase, NDS2.
Mrs Bandama said new technological tools such as artificial intelligence, geospatial data, and big data sources have expanded Zimbabwe’s capacity to generate more detailed and accurate statistics.
“These innovations are not just about improving data quality. They also empower citizens, enhance governance, and foster greater accountability across all sectors of society.”
Mrs Bandama said the need for data innovation is more urgent than ever.
“In Zimbabwe, we are committed to scaling up investments in data and statistical systems,” she said.
“We will continue to develop new statistical products, introduce digital platforms, and engage with data users to build trust in official statistics and support evidence-based policymaking.”
Mrs Bandama said statistical innovations were not just about technological progress; they are vital tools for driving inclusive development.
“By harnessing the power of data, we can ensure that no one is left behind and that our policies reflect the needs of all Zimbabweans.”
The celebration of African Statistics Day 2025 underscored the growing recognition that data is a key driver of development. For Zimbabwe, strengthening its statistical infrastructure is seen as essential for achieving its long-term national goals and contributing to Africa’s broader efforts to achieve sustainable development, peace and prosperity.
As the continent continues to face significant challenges, Zimbabwe’s commitment to data innovation and modernisation signals a forward-looking approach to building a more just and prosperous society.
