Review of a strategy for statistical development in Africa in the 1990s

Abstract

In the recent past, and in particular in the context of the programme of structural adjustment and reforms, there has been increased awareness of the need to improve and strengthen information systems in African countries- It was in recognition of the importance of information flows that in 1988 the Fifth Session of the Joint Conference of African Planners, Statisticians and Demographers (PSD) requested ECA to undertake an assessment of the national statistical capacity of all African countries. Such comprehensive exercise was deemed necessary in order to determine whether sufficient progress had been made in the 1980s to satisfy Africa's data needs, and whether adequate national statistical infrastructure and capacities had been put in place.