Many African countries do not have strong statistical systems and therefore lack the data needed for planning and tracking of economic development. This is partly due to a lack of adequate statistical capacity in these countries. ECA will therefore seek to assist African countries in improving their statistical databases and also their statistical capacity at various levels. In particular, the desired outcome would be to enable proper planning for MDG achievements as well as the monitoring of progress made in this regard.
The service line on Statistical Development will focus on the implementation of the Reference Regional Strategic Framework, which encompasses all the critical objectives and strategies to develop the continent’s statistical systems.
It will consist of a platform of exchange of information and know-how on the implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting on the RRSF as recommended by the Forum on African Statistical Development (FASDEV). As the RRSF addresses all areas of statistical development, the COP is expected to be a one-stop shop of knowledge creation and dissemination on African Statistical Development.