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How to improve access to quality data in Africa
Access to quality data and a sharper focus on non-financial data is a critical factor for rebuilding a better Africa. Less than half of the SDG indicators in Africa are accompanied by data, which makes it nearly impossible to track progress accurately. Arielle Molino, Associate Vice President at Intellecap joins CNBC Africa for more.
Tue, 16 Feb 2021 10:24:45 GMT
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AI Generated Summary
- The critical importance of access to quality data and non-financial data in rebuilding Africa
- Challenges in data collection and monitoring progress towards development goals
- The role of partnerships, government policies, and the impact of COVID-19 on Africa's data landscape
Access to quality data and a sharper focus on non-financial data are crucial factors for rebuilding a better Africa. The continent faces a significant gap in data collection, with less than half of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators in Africa being accompanied by data. Ariel Molino, Associate Vice President at Intellecap, addressed these challenges and opportunities in a recent interview with CNBC Africa, shedding light on the importance of data in monitoring progress and achieving development goals. The lack of comprehensive data not only hinders accountability but also limits timely decision-making and solutions that are centered around people's needs.
Molino emphasized the critical role of data in addressing the most vulnerable populations, who often remain invisible in data collection efforts. Without accurate and accessible data, policymakers and development leaders struggle to formulate effective interventions that target those most in need, such as low-income individuals and communities with limited access to essential services like healthcare.
Partnerships are key in bridging the data gap in Africa. While there have been initiatives like the Africa Charter on Statistics and the African Data Consensus, the challenge lies in translating these policies into action. Molino highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships to leverage the wealth of data collected by entrepreneurs, community-based organizations, and academic institutions. More open and shareable data, coupled with enhanced data interpretation competencies, are crucial for driving informed decision-making and policy development.
Government policies play a crucial role in creating an enabling environment for data collection and sharing. While some African countries like Rwanda and Kenya have made strides in promoting open data accessibility, there remains a need for robust data protection laws to safeguard privacy and prevent political interference. Autonomous statistical offices are essential in producing unbiased statistical data that can inform evidence-based policies and interventions.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the challenges in Africa's data landscape, pushing millions into extreme poverty and intensifying issues such as hunger, healthcare access, and education. With the region already off track in achieving many SDG indicators, the pandemic has further underscored the urgent need for quality data to identify and support vulnerable populations effectively.
As Africa navigates through the complexities of data collection and utilization, the call for strengthened data infrastructure, transparent policies, and collaborative partnerships grows louder. The continent's ability to harness data for informed decision-making and impactful interventions will be instrumental in driving progress towards a more sustainable and equitable future.
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