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University of Botswana (UB) Statistics Department and Statistics Botswana recently joined forces in launching the Second Botswana Strategy for Development of statistics dubbed the (BSDS 2026-2030). 

The event which also marked the 4th Global Commemoration of World Statistics Day was held under the theme: Driving Change; Quality Statistics, and Data for everyone.  Speaking at the event, Statistician General, Dr Khaufelo Raymond Lekobane, stressed the importance of data in policy formulation.  

“World Statistics Day provides us with an important opportunity to reflect on the indispensable role that quality, timely and reliable data plays in shaping national development policies, monitoring progress and fostering accountability,” he said.  

Dr Lekobane noted that the event was special in that the country officially launched its strategy. He stressed that the five-year strategy would serve as a national roadmap that seeks to build an agile, inclusive, and responsive statistical system. He stated that the double celebration symbolised continuity and renewal and a shared commitment to data excellence as well as renewal to resolve and modernise Botswana’s data ecosystem.

For his part, the then Acting President and Minister for State President, Hon Moeti Mohwasa said: “Statistics is more than just numbers but the language of progress, the backbone of the government and compass that guides our development journey.” Mohwasa underscored this year’s theme as directly resonating with the government’s aspirations for inclusive growth, resilience and wellbeing of every citizen.  

Hon Mohwasa further remarked that the launch of the BSDS 2026-2030 strategy would provide a comprehensive framework to modernise data systems, strengthen correlation and respond to emerging data needs. He added that the instrument was strategically aligned with the National Development Plan 12 (NDP 12), Botswana Economic Transformation Programme (BETP) as well as regional and international commitments, including the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (2020–2030) and the aspirations of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Moreover, another expert, Dr Norah Madaya, from the National Strategy for the Development of Statistics (NSDS) Regional Advisor-Partnerships in Statistics in the 21st Centaury (PARIS21), stressed that the day was a call for the government and public to reconsider prioritising statistics. According to Madaya, such affirmed the vitality of data in aiding decision making. 

 To that end, the BSDS 2026-2030 strategy was deemed as a testament by the government and leadership’s commitment to demanding accurate statistical data and its utility in developing Botswana. This notion was shared by the United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator Ms Wenyan Yang, who underscored the relevance of incorporating statistics, as it played a crucial role in global progress. Ms Yang added that statistics had been foundational, not only to the UN’s operations but also in addressing worldwide challenges such as peacekeeping, sustainable development, climate change and public health crises.  

In addition, she said the global statistics community exemplified international coordination, bringing together professionals from all regions to establish standards, share methodologies and ensure accurate and timely data. Thus, enabling policymakers, businesses and citizens to navigate complexities and make informed decisions.  

“Statistics reveal critical issues and drive significant change. Like they say, you cannot change what you can’t measure,” she said, adding that data then must be used not only to inform but to safeguard, ensuring no one is left behind, serving as an instrument for development, equity and dignity for all.