By Domingo Dargbeh
The Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-Information Services (LISGIS), has officially launched its National Strategy for the Development of Statistics (NSDS).
the launch was done alongside several key statistical reports to enhance data-driven decision-making.
This initiative is to bolster economic management, good governance, and sustainable development through improved statistical practices.
LISGIS Director General Richards Fatorma Ngafuan said, the significance of reliable data to inform government policy and investment strategies were necessary.
“These decisions are backed by data, which are all evidence-based.”
Ngafuan underscored the importance of accurate statistics in addressing the challenges.
The NSDS is designed to serve as a guiding framework for the production of statistical reports that reflect the country’s socio-economic landscape. The strategy includes comprehensive analyses of population demographics, agricultural statistics, national poverty information, and other critical indicators necessary for monitoring development outcomes.
Senator Dabah M. Varpilah, chairperson of the Senate Committee on population and development, urged stakeholders to actively utilize the data generated to inform their decisions and strategies.
The program also highlighted the necessity of collaboration among various sectors, including civil society, the private sector and development partners.
Varpilah called on the entities to leverage the new statistical tools to gather accurate data related to job creation, income generation, and improving living standards for vulnerable groups, particularly youth, women, and rural communities.
The launch of the NSDS comes at a time when Liberia faces pressing challenges of climate-related risks, environmental degradation and rapid urbanization.
The strategy aims to equip government with the necessary data to address the issues effectively.
Moreover, it seeks to enhance the capacity of ministries and agencies involved in data collection and analysis, ensuring that the statistical system remains responsive and relevant.
Key partners, including the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), were acknowledged for their support in developing the NSDS.