Dr Mukiza Calls for New Era in Statistical Development to Meet Global Data Needs

New York— Dr. Chris Mukiza, the Executive Director and Chief Statistician of the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), attended the 56th Session of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Statistical Commission in New York.

The four-day conference, from March 4th to 7th, 2025, serves as a global platform for advancing statistical production and development across National Statistical Offices (NSOs) worldwide.

In his remarks, Dr. Mukiza emphasised that this year’s session provides a crucial opportunity to exchange ideas and address key challenges in statistical development, production, and dissemination—critical components for Uganda’s socioeconomic transformation and global progress.

Representing Uganda’s position on the fundamental principles of official statistics, Dr. Mukiza cautioned against the duplication of roles by National Statistics Boards and regional frameworks.

He specifically referenced the African Charter for Official Statistics, which already provides oversight mechanisms to ensure compliance with these principles.

“The discussions and decisions made at this 56th session will shape a new era in understanding statistical demands and ensuring that we respond to data needs in a timely and effective manner,” he noted.

Dr. Mukiza further stressed that providing high-quality data is essential for identifying development gaps, formulating informed policies, and guiding resource allocation.

One of the key agenda items at this session is the adoption of resolutions for the 2030 World Population and Housing Census Program and the System of National Accounts 2025.

The UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, Mr. Li Junhua, highlighted the significance of these programs, stating that they have a long history and remain vital for measuring progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He underscored the importance of population and housing censuses as foundational tools for delivering on the Agenda 2030. Additionally, he noted that the 2025 System of National Accounts will enhance the measurement of the digital and global economy, contributing to discussions on GDP and economic trends.

Dr. Mukiza was accompanied by Dr. Allen Kabagenyi, a UBOS Board Member, Mr. Samuel Echoku, Head of the Department of Economic Statistics, and Ms. Karen Akampa, an IT Officer.