Strategy and road map to assist countries in modernizing their administrative data systems for statistical purposes

Abstract

The Cape Town Global Action Plan (2017) highlights the need to modernize administrative data systems for sustainable development monitoring, yet African countries face challenges like weak legal frameworks, poor data-sharing, and inconsistent standards. This strategy proposes a road map to enhance administrative data use by: (1) Increasing trust through improved quality, metadata, and dissemination; (2) Strengthening governance via coordination, international standards, and partnerships; and (3) Aligning data with real demand by identifying user needs and fostering a data-driven culture. Key steps include establishing digital base registers (population, business, address), capacity-building in data analytics, pilot digitalization projects, and secure funding. National Statistical Offices (NSOs) must lead implementation, ensuring interoperability, unique identifiers, and harmonized standards. The strategy calls for ECA approval and member-state adoption to transition from costly surveys to efficient, high-quality administrative data systems, supporting evidence-based policymaking and SDG monitoring.