Her Excellency former President Johnson Sirleaf has spoken extensively about the essential significance of timely data in African development and policy decision-making in her keynote address at the 2023 Afrobarometer Planning Meeting.
The continent of Africa has, over the years, made significant strides in terms of economic growth and development. However, it has faced a number of difficulties that have slowed down advancement in a few crucial areas.
One of these issues, which has contributed to the implementation of inefficient policies, the improper use of resources, and the maintenance of disparities, has been the absence of timely access to and use of data.
According to former President Sirleaf, the absence of infrastructure and resources for timely data collection and analysis, as well as a lack of a culture that values data-driven decision-making, are two of Africa’s biggest challenges.
These difficulties, she said, are connected to more significant problems like political unrest, crime, and a lack of openness and responsibility in the executive branch of government.
Despite these challenges, the former President pointed out that progress is being made in many areas, with increasing recognition of the importance of data in the context of African development, and many governments and organizations investing in building the necessary infrastructure and capacity to collect and analyze data on time.
African Urged To Unlock Potentials Through Data Literacy
According to President Johnson Sirleaf, governments and organizations must put in their best to invest in education and training programs that promote data literacy and encourage the use of data in decision-making processes.
Her remarks highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing these challenges. She emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in strengthening democratic institutions and promoting political stability in Africa.
“In this way, citizens and stakeholders can hold governments and other actors accountable for their actions, and make informed decisions based on accurate and reliable information.
“This requires not only the development of technical capacity and infrastructure, but also the cultivation of a mindset that values data and evidence-based decision-making.”
President Johnson Sirleaf
Moving forward, she said it will be critical to continue investing in these efforts, while also addressing broader issues such as political instability, corruption, and a lack of transparency and accountability. By doing so, Africa can unlock its full potential and continue on a path of sustainable and inclusive growth and development.
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