Zimbabwe's statistics system crippled by antiquate laws

Zimbabwe's ability to produce credible and timely national statistics is being constrained by an outdated legal framework that fails to accommodate modern innovations such as big data analytics and inter-agency information sharing, according to the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat).

ZimStat spokesperson Roland Chiringa highlighted that the Census and Statistics Act, which governs the collection and management of national data, has fallen behind global best practices, limiting efforts to modernise statistical systems and enable data-driven governance.

"One of the biggest challenges is uneven digital services or technological infrastructure and connectivity, particularly in rural areas," Chiringa told the Zimbabwe Independent.

He added that the current law does not fully support an efficient national statistical system, nor does it adequately address innovations such as administrative data sharing or the use of big data in policymaking.

According to both the African Union's Strategy for the Harmonisation of Statistics in Africa and Zimbabwe's National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), national statistics agencies are expected to go beyond data collection to provide information that drives inclusive development, enhances transparency, and empowers citizens in decision-making.

"Ultimately, our goal is not just to generate figures but to tell a true story of Zimbabweans' socio-economic realities and to provide solid evidence that informs inclusive, people-centred policies and development planning," Chiringa said.

To achieve this, ZimStat is conducting comprehensive surveys aimed at producing granular data that reflects the country's fast-changing socio-economic environment while strengthening transparency and public engagement. Chiringa emphasised that citizen awareness and data privacy remain a priority.

On October 20, ZimStat joined the global community in commemorating the Fourth World Statistics Day, themed "Quality Statistics and Data for Everyone".

In a statement, the International Statistical Institute (ISI) highlighted the importance of trustworthy data for democratic governance, market stability, and citizen accountability.

"Reliable figures on growth, jobs, inflation, health, environment and education allow people to judge for themselves, based on impartial evidence rather than political spin," the ISI said. "When statistics vanish, speculation fills the gap and trust disappears."

The ISI warned that undermining statistical integrity erodes public trust and international cooperation, stressing that professional ethics, accurate data collection, rigorous analysis, and transparent communication are essential for decisions based on reality rather than assumption.

Chiringa concluded that fostering a strong data culture is critical to ensure that statistics drive progress, equity, and accountable governance in Zimbabwe.