Zimbabwe upgrading national statistics system

The Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (Zimstat) has announced a significant push to modernize its operations through the expanded use of digital technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), geospatial tools, and citizen-generated information. The move, unveiled on African Statistics Day, aims to enhance the agency's ability to produce timely, reliable, and accurate data for national development.

In a statement, Zimstat said the modernization efforts reflect a broader continental trend of integrating innovative technologies into national statistical systems. The agency highlighted that these initiatives are already transforming Zimbabwe's statistical ecosystem, improving the production of official statistics essential for policy planning and development monitoring.

"Like other African states, Zimbabwe is investing in modernizing its national statistical system through initiatives to adopt digital technologies, artificial intelligence, geospatial tools, big data sources, and citizen-generated data to produce official statistics. Such innovations have already begun transforming the statistical ecosystem which is crucial for producing timely, reliable and accurate data," the agency stated.

Zimstat noted that the adoption of computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI) for all surveys has markedly improved the quality and availability of data. This enhancement is particularly important for tracking progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and monitoring the implementation of the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1).

African Statistics Day, observed annually on 18 November, seeks to raise awareness about the pivotal role statistics play in socio-economic development. The 2025 celebrations were held under the theme: "Leveraging innovations in data and statistics to promote a just, peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous society for Africans."

Zimstat emphasized that the theme underscores the importance of embracing technological innovations to strengthen data systems and support evidence-based policymaking. The agency added that robust statistical systems are key to informing policies, driving economic growth, and improving citizens' lives.

Despite improvements since 2015, Zimstat acknowledged that many African countries still struggle to generate sufficient data, particularly for SDG 16, which focuses on peace, justice, and strong institutions. The ongoing modernization initiatives are intended to address these gaps and ensure Zimbabwe remains at the forefront of data-driven development in the region.