African Centre for Statistics

Statistical Development Section

The Role of Civil Society

Organizations in the Statistical
Process

Handbook
December 2017
INDICES

ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS ............................................................................................... 5

PREFACE ............................................................................................................................................... 7
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS .................................................................................................................... 9
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................................... 10
1.1. Background and Context............................................................................................................ 10
1.1.1The role the CSOs can play to enhance the scope of the NSS .............................................. 12
1.1.2. The Key providers, producers and consumers in Statistics market .................................... 13
1.2. Purpose and Scope ..................................................................................................................... 14
1.3. Methodology .............................................................................................................................. 15
1.4. Limitations ................................................................................................................................. 16
1.5. Main concepts and definitions associated with Civil Society Organisations ............................. 18
1.6. Concepts associated with National Statistical Systems and institutional framework ................ 22
1.6.1. Official Statistics ................................................................................................................. 22
1.6.2. National Statistical System (NSS) ...................................................................................... 23
1.6.2.1. Guiding Principles of the National Statistical System ..................................................... 23
1.6.2.2. Statistical Council (SC).................................................................................................... 24
1.6.2.3. National Statistical Office (NSO) .................................................................................... 24
1.6.2.4. Central Banks ................................................................................................................... 26
1.6.2.5. Sectoral Statistics Data Producers.................................................................................... 26
1.6.2.6. National Statistical System Coordination Models ........................................................... 26
CHAPTER 2: THE CONTEXT OF PRODUCTION OF STATISTICS IN AFRICA ......................... 29
2.1. Development of Statistics in Africa and its importance............................................................. 29
2.1.1. Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) ................................................................... 31
2.1.2. Governance, Peace and Security Statistics.......................................................................... 32
2.1.3. Poverty Statistics ................................................................................................................. 33
2.1.4. Economic Statistics ............................................................................................................. 33
2.2. Statistical Development Agendas .............................................................................................. 34
2.2.1. Africa Agenda 2063 ............................................................................................................ 35
2.2.2. Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals ................................................................... 36
2.2.3. Strategy for the Harmonisation of Statistics in Africa II (SHaSA II) ................................. 36
2.2.4. National Strategy for the Development of Statistics (NSDS) ............................................. 38
2.2.5. Declaration of Busan ........................................................................................................... 39
2.2.6. Paris Declaration ................................................................................................................. 40

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 2.2.7. The Marrakech Action Plan for Statistics ........................................................................... 40
2.3. Challenges of the African Statistical System ............................................................................. 41
2.3.1. Data Revolution .................................................................................................................. 42
2.3.2. Financing Statistics in Africa .............................................................................................. 43
2.4. Actors of statistical development in Africa................................................................................ 44
2.4.1. National ............................................................................................................................... 44
2.4.2. Regional .............................................................................................................................. 44
2.4.3. Continental .......................................................................................................................... 45
2.4.4. Global.................................................................................................................................. 46
CHAPTER 3: LEGAL FRAMEWORK ............................................................................................... 47
3.1. Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics............................................................................. 47
3.2. The African Charter on Statistics ............................................................................................... 48
3.3. The Law on National Statistical Systems and National Statistical Offices................................ 54
CHAPTER 4: THE ROLE OF CIVIL SOCIETY AND NATIONAL STATISTICS OFFICES ON
NATIONAL, REGIONAL, AND GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT AGENDA ....................................... 57
4.1. On National Development Plans and Strategies ....................................................................... 57
4.2. Africa Agenda 2063 and Agenda 2030 ....................................................................................... 57
4.3. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).............................................................................. 58
CHAPTER 5 - THE ROLE OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS AS DATA PRODUCERS ... 66
5.2. Organization of civil society as producers of statistical data ..................................................... 66
5.2. Role of Civil Society Organization on Data Revolution ............................................................ 68
5.2.1 Official statistics versus non official statistics: Case of Big data .............................................. 68
5.3. Civil Society Organization perspective on data production ....................................................... 70
5.4. National Statistics Office perspective on data production ......................................................... 76
CHAPTER 6 - THE ROLE OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS AS USERS OF STATISTICS
.............................................................................................................................................................. 81
6.1. Organization of civil society as users or consumers of statistics ............................................... 82
6.1.1 Civil Society Organizations perspective on data use ........................................................... 83
6.1.2 National Statistics Office perspective on data use ............................................................... 85
CHAPTER 7 - PARTNERSHIPS OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS AND NATIONAL
STATISTICS INSTITUTES ................................................................................................................. 87
7.1. Civil Society Organisations perspective on Partnerships........................................................... 87
7.2. National Statistics Office perspective on Partnerships .............................................................. 89
CHAPTER 8 - CONCLUSION ............................................................................................................ 93
CHAPTER 9 - RECOMMENDATIONS ............................................................................................. 97

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I. WORK PLAN ..................................................................................................................... 101
II. BIBLIOGRAPHY ............................................................................................................... 102
III. QUESTIONNAIRE APPLIED TO CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS .................. 113
IV. QUESTIONNAIRE APPLIED TO NATIONAL STATISTICS OFFICES ................... 113

4
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

AAPA : Addis Ababa Plan of Action for the Development of Statistics in Africa
in the 1990s
ACBF : African Capacity Building Foundation
ACS : African Charter on Statistics
AfDB : African Development Bank
AFRISTAT : Economical and Statistical Observatory
AFRITAC : Regional Technical Assistance Centers - IMF
Agenda 2030 : Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development Goals
Agenda 2063 : The African Union's Agenda 2063
AGNA : Africa Group on National Accounts
AIMS : African Institute of Mathematical Sciences
APAI-CRVS : Africa Programme for Accelerated Improvement of Civil Registration
and Vital Statistics
ASS : African Statistical System
ASSD : Africa Symposium on Statistical Development
AU : African Union
AUC : African Union Commission
BSAP : Busan Action Plan for Statistics
CEN-SAD : Community of Sahel-Saharan States
CoDGs : Committee of Directors General of National Statistical Offices
COMESA : Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa
CPI Consumer Price Index
CS : Civil Society
CSO : Civil Society Organizations
CSRR : Strategic Reference Framework for the Development of Statistics in
Africa
DAC : Development Assistance Committee
DHS : Demographic Health Survey
DRP : Data Revolution Policy
EAC : East African Community
ECA : Economic Commission for Africa
ECOWAS : Economic Community of West African States
EGM Expert Group Meeting
FAO : United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization
GDDS : General Data Dissemination System
GDP : Gross Domestic Product
GPS : Governance, Peace and Security
IAEG-SDG : Inter-Agency Expert Group on Sustainable Development Goals
Indicators
HDI Human Development Index
IGAD : Inter-Governmental Authority for Development

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IHSN : International Network of Household Survey
ILO : International Labour Organization
IMF : International Monetary Fund
MAPS : Marrakech Action Plan for Statistics
MDG : Millennium Development Goals
MICS : Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys
MoU Memorandum of Understanding
NGO : Non-Governmental Organizations
NSC : National Statistical Council
NSDS : National Strategy for the Development of Statistics
NSS : National Statistical Systems
REC : Regional Economic Communities
RRSF : Regional Reference Strategic Framework
RSDS : Regional Strategy for the Development of Statistics
SADC : Southern African Development Community
SDG : Sustainable Development Goals
SHaSA : Strategy for the Harmonization of Statistics in Africa
SNA : System of National Accounts
SNDD : Special Norms for the Dissemination of Data
STAT- : African Union Institute for Statistics
AFRIC
STATCOM- : United Nations Statistical Commission for Africa
Africa
STG : Specialized Technical Group
UEMOA : West African Monetary Agency
UN : United Nations
UNDP : United Nations Development Programme
UNESCO : United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation
UNICEF : United Nations Children's Fund
UNSD : United Nations Statistics Division
WHO : World Health Organisation

6
PREFACE

Classically, The Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) were recognized as providers of relief and
promoter of human rights. Recently, such organizations are increasingly viewed as critical
contributors to economic growth and civic and social infrastructure essential for a minimum
quality of life for the people. For instance, Ghaus-Pasha (2004) has summarized the role of
civil society as a third sector when she wrote: “The role of Civil Society has been widely
recognized as an essential ‘third’ sector. Its strength can have a positive influence on the state
and the market. Civil society is therefore seen as an increasingly important agent for promoting
good governance like transparency, effectiveness, openness, responsiveness and
accountability. Civil society can further good governance, first, by policy analysis and
advocacy; second, by regulation and monitoring of state performance and the action and
behavior of public officials; third, by building social capital and enabling citizens to identify
and articulate their values, beliefs, civic norms and democratic”.1

The proposed new version of SHaSA II has considered the role of CSOs in most of statistical
activities, including building strong partnerships with foundations, civil society, partners,
users, etc; their inclusion as members of specialized technical working groups and recognized
as emerging users of Official Statistics.

For Civil society sector to effectively plays its role in inclusive development, and for its
organizations to actively engage and efficiently deliver its activities in the different domains of
development, such as alleviating poverty, (The first goal of SDGs), advocating policy change,
contributing to good governance and campaigning for the SDGs, there is an urgent need for
these CSOs to be strengthen. To meet this urgent need will allow CSOs to be further recognized
by other development stakeholders. However, to ensure the sustainability of fully engagement
of CSOs in socio economic development will require sustainable inflow of information of
official statistics.

In response to the statistical information needed by CSOs, the African Centre for statistics
(ACS) of the United Nations Commission for Africa (ECA) took the initiative to develop a
handbook on the role of CSOs in statistical process. In this context, ACS views the CSOs not
only as users of official statistics to support greater citizen participation, but on the other hand

1
Aisha Ghaus-Pasha(2004)”Role of Civil Society Organizations in Governance
“.http://unpan1.un.org/intradoc/groups/public/documents/un/unpan019594.pdf

7
as generators of data, in such a manner most of the data they collect can be subject to certain
statistical operations, assisted among others, by the guidelines of the developed handbook, to
be upgraded into official statistics, hence to broaden the physical scope of official statistics as
well as to integrate, coordinate and main stream this emerging sector within the National
statistical system.

As a result, the ACS has envisaged that after the draft of this handbook been presented to an
EGM, the final product will be shared by both NSOs and CSOs to enhance advocacy and
awareness, dialogue and a true partnership between all development partners in achieving
national development plans, including the sustainable development Goals and in the long term
in attaining agenda 2063

Oliver Chinganya
Director
African Centre for Statistics
United Nations Economic Commission for Africa
October 2017

8
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

To be prepared by ECA.

9
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background and Context

The purpose of this chapter is to frame the study, present the methodology used and the main
concepts associated with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Civil Society (CS), and National
Statistical Systems (NSS).

Civil Society Organizations have been actively involved in the development arena. Precisely
for this reason, many governments have included them in decision-making or consultation
processes, which has contributed to greater visibility and strengthened their role in society.
This participation allowed for an increase on the capacity of society to monitor and influence
the positions of the State and to potentiate the organization of society around relevant issues.
This type of social intervention was relevant within the framework of the Millennium
Development Goals (MDG) agenda, and all conditions are there for it to be relevant in the
Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) implementation process.

Notwithstanding this finding, CSOs have not been adequately addressed on by national
statistical offices, since there is a lack of evidence on them, which makes it difficult to measure
their weight in the economy objectively. In this context, this Manual on The Role of Civil
Society Organizations (CSOs) in the production of statistics is opportune and is the result of
UNECA's recognition of the importance they have been having over the years, with promotion
of local, national, regional and global development, even emerging as a third sector, alongside
the Private Sector and the State.

Despite the above, CSOs remain a poorly understood and marginalized sector in the production
of official statistics. As such, it is vital for Africa to have a better understanding of this sector.
It will not be possible without creating a guiding instrument capable of describing CSOs, how
they act, how they manage their data, liaising with official statistics offices on sharing, mutual
co-operation, better re-use of data sets within CSOs and between National Statistical Offices
(NSOs) and CSOs, thus enhancing the scope of the data ecosystem. For this reason, UNECA
decided to provide CSOs, NSOs and data users with an essential tool that would contribute to
a more effective, efficient and quality work in the interests of their missions. On the other hand,

10
it will help expand the scope, promote ownership and increase the sustainability of official
statistics in Africa.
This manual will focus on CSOs rather than the private sector. This is because the private sector
already plays an important role in statistical production, both as a producer, consumer and data
provider. In addition, it participates at the level of National Statistical Councils in many
countries, co-financing statistical operations through partnerships with NSOs. It has actively
participated in the provision of information in various statistical operations, with emphasis on
the Business Surveys, the Business Censuses, but also on the informal sector surveys that are
fundamental to the national accounts. Thus, this manual aims to provide producers and users
of data across Africa with a common understanding of CSOs and statistical production in
general.
With the prospect of responding to the different objectives proposed, this manual is structured
in nine chapters. The first chapter presents the methodology, the framework of the study and
the main associated concepts. The second chapter addresses the importance of statistical
information in Africa and contextualizes the production of statistics on the continent, with
references to the main agendas and the main actors in the development of statistics. The third
chapter presents the legal and institutional framework in which statisticians in Africa operate,
with emphasis on the African Charter on Statistics, the Fundamental Principles of Official
Statistics, the National Statistical Systems Act and the National Statistical Offices and the
National Strategy for the Development of Statistics.

The fourth chapter discusses the role of Civil Society Organizations and National Statistical
Offices in achieving development agenda with focusing in the Sustainable Development Goals.
In turn, the fifth chapter will discuss the role of Civil Society Organizations as data producers.
The sixth chapter will address the role of Civil Society Organizations as data users. The seventh
chapter is reserved for discussion of partnerships between CSOs and NSOs in data production
and the following guidelines in terms of coordination and information sharing. The eighth and
ninth chapters address the main conclusions and recommendations of the study. Finally, there
is a space reserved for the main annexes that competed for the study.

11
1.1.1The role the CSOs can play to enhance the scope of the NSS

CSOs are important players in the process of producing statistics, although most of the time
they are not recognized as producers of official statistics. They play a relevant role at various
levels:

 Facilitate the data collection;

 Provide information in domains where NSS doesn’t have any;
 Improve the accessibility to the statistics;
 Improve the relevance of the statistics;
 Help in sensitizing the population on the objective of the surveys
 Assure the transparency of the statistical process;
 Improve the understanding of the data;
 Improve the response rates
 Provide feedback reports on uses and quality of the data.

CSOs as a Resource
 CSOs can enhance the role of NSS by providing complementary data in the data
production process;
 CSOs can be seen as a source of funding for the production of official statistics,
especially in areas where they have specific interest (e.g.: child labour in labour force
studies – support from organisations that have interest);
 CSOs as a source of technical expertise, especially in instances/areas where they may
have greater expertise than the NSO;

CSOs as Advocates
 CSOs taking an advocacy role in terms of sensitizing communities to participate in
statistical data collection processes.
CSOs as (secondary) Source of Validation for NSOs
 Contributions from CSOs will help to counter-check and validate data collection
sources, methods and findings of studies conducted by NSOs.
CSOs as a Shaper
 Contribution from CSOs would influence NSS into more human-centred, socially-
oriented measures of national performance;

12
  In the long run it could have a bearing on policy directions and frameworks of the key
indicators used to measure progress;
 Evaluation and monitoring deprivation and poverty levels in society.
 Capturing social indicators;
 Providing data on interventions on critical and untapped areas in society (e.g.: counter-
terrorism, peace and security);
 Shaping units of observations of the national statistical process.
CSOs as Enabler
 Increased visibility of government on the state of affairs, providing a fairer picture on
major developmental issues;
 Increases the credibility of data gathered, investors’ confidence and public trust, which
in essence will positively affect the cycle of national statistical systems, especially at
the data consumption end improving knowledge management and shared information.

1.1.2. The Key providers, producers and consumers in Statistics market

Before entering into the justification of the theme, it is necessary to distinguish the important
actors that are the essence of the existence of statistics. On the one hand, we have the statistical
supply and on the other hand we have the demand. At the supply level, there are statistical
producers of information that can be both official and unofficial. As producers of official
statistics, we highlight all the statistics that are produced by the official bodies of the NSS. In
some cases, they also include CSOs. As unofficial statistics, we have statistics that are produced
by other public and private bodies and also by CSOs that are not part of the NSS. However,
NSOs can contribute to transforming this data into statistics. To this end, conversation between
the institutions is necessary.
At the level of demand, there are users, providers / consumers of statistical information. They
are also a very important actor, because statistics are only useful if they are produced and
consumed. Information-producing institutions often fail to respond to the information needs of
all users. In this respect, in order to minimize these constraints, there must be a balance between
supply and demand. For this to happen, statistical authorities must know the information needs
of users in order to tailor statistical data collection to their needs. In many cases it confuses
users with data producers and vice versa. For example, NSOs are data producers par excellence,

13
but also users of much information that is produced at the level of other sectors, where CSOs
enter and are key to food, for example the National Accounts.
Two groups of users can be distinguished according to access to information: users working in
large public or private research institutions that need quick access and use large volumes of
data as the basis for their scientific and business analysis and the of those who use statistical
information eventually to solve well-defined problems. These groups include the authorities,
researchers, universities, ordinary citizens, research institutions, private sector, CSOs,
international organizations… It should be emphasized that users' demand for statistical
information is increasing considerably, with greater pressure on producers, requiring faster
information disclosure, more user-friendly retrieval systems and the use of new technologies
to facilitate better access to data at several levels, with emphasis on georeferenced information.
In this particular, the relationship between producers and users should adapt to the new
demands of society.
Official statistics versus non official statistics: CSOs and private sector can be viewed as data
providers and users of official statistics. On the other hand, CSOs, private sector and relevant
stakeholders can still play a role as producers of unofficial statistics.

1.2. Purpose and Scope

The aim of this manual is to provide data producers and users across Africa with a common
understanding of the role CSOs play in statistics and how to produce them. In addition, it helps
to show how the relationship between CSOs and NSSs is in terms of data sharing and statistical
output and, in return, provide orientations to strengthen collaboration, as well as mutual and
structured coordination between them. It also shows how this collaboration and coordination
will in turn contribute to increasing accountability between CSOs, government institutions and
citizens, thus expanding the scope of use and production of official statistics to promote
evidence-based dialogue and decision-making processes. It further describes issues, challenges
and solutions to help state statutory offices integrate CSO concerns into all stages of the
statistical production process, from collection to dissemination. It is also a useful reference for
users of CSO statistics to improve understanding of how data is produced.

As specific objectives, this study aims to:

1. Integrate, coordinate and disseminate data provided by CSOs in NSSs and propose
mechanisms for integrating and coordinating the contribution of CSOs to NSSs;

14
 2. Facilitate CSOs to use official statistics to support greater citizen participation in socio-
economic and transparent political processes;
3. Advocate to users for the effective and efficient use of official statistics in the
performance of their activities and the critical delivery of their services in the context
of the implementation of development agenda including the Sustainable Development
Goals, as well as to make official statistics provided by the CSO at the level of the NSSs
and statistical authorities.

1.3. Methodology

For the preparation of this manual and to achieve the proposed objectives, two methodological
procedures were adopted. For this purpose, an extensive review was done of the existing
literature on CSOs, SSNs, the main actors involved in the development of statistics in Africa,
the main development agendas. In addition, given the need for specific information from CSOs
and NSOs, two questionnaires were carefully prepared, one with a set of questions addressed
to NSIs and another with questions addressed to CSOs.

It should be noted that, unlike the NSOs in which the questionnaire was applied exhaustively,
this was not possible for CSOs, given their large number, but also because of the difficulty in
defining a sample, since there is no universe of CSOs. Thus, in the case of CSOs, as a selection
criteria, geographical space was taken into account in order to have all regions of the continent
represented. In addition, experiences of these institutions were taken into account in the data
collection, production of data and the relationship with NSOs.

The survey provided a clearer picture of possible partnerships between CSOs and official
statistics, their difficulties and opportunities. It also allowed information gathering on the
articulation between them, how and where they participate in the production of data, the
innovations existing as well as providing insights on whether there is no relationship, neither
partnership nor experiences in the production of data. Based on the responses to the
questionnaires, an analysis plan was prepared, which was the basis for the preparation of
chapters five to seven. In addition, UNECA promoted a Expert Group Meeting (EGM), which
allowed the review of the draft version of the Handbook and incorporated important input from
the participants.

15
It should be noted that response rates is low, a limitation that was mitigated during the EGM
where the participants were enthusiastic in broadening the analyzed information with their own
experiences as CSOs and NSOs and that of the countries they operate, thus consolidating the
outcome of the surveys.

It is noted that the survey was applied to all 55 NSOs of the applicant and 22 CSOs. However,
by October 13, 11 NSOs and 4 CSOs responded, corresponding to a response rate of 20% and
18% respectively. The table below gives a brief summary.

Table 1: NSOs and CSOs who responded to the surveys and their response rates

OSC NSO
No. of Inquiries sent 22 55
Number of institutions that responded 4 11
Answer rate (%) 18.2 20.0

1.4. Limitations

In terms of limitations, it should be noted that since this is a new domain, there is little
background describing the role of CSOs in statistics. It would be ideal to have a comprehensive
database on CSOs that would objectively allow a sample to be drawn and consequently provide
accurate diagnosis and analysis of the situation, particularly in terms of data production.
Unfortunately, there is no known mapping of CSOs in Africa. However given the development
of a comprehensive database on CSOs in the near future, then a revisit to the handbook can
make it of more practical of guidance value rather than mainly to serve as a broad policy
framework. Another limitation related to the absence of comprehensive database on CSOs, is
to improve the design of the questionnaires to explore which data sets generated by the CSOs
are either complementary or otherwise, to the existing official statistics

16
Box 1. Justification and rationale for developing the manual
The purpose of this manual is to contribute to improving the quality of the statistical information
produced by integrating data generated by CSOs into the data ecosystem, thus improving the coverage
of statistical information. It will also help to bring together the NSOs and CSOs, with gains for the data
production process.
The proposed new version of SHaSA II considered the role of CSOs in most statistical activities,
including building strong partnerships with foundations, civil society, partners and users. Its inclusion as
members of specialized technical working groups and CSOs recognized as users emerging from official
statistics. In this regard, advocacy work is urgently needed so that CSOs can effectively be recognized
as producers of official statistics, both in the NSS laws, that are the ideal situation and through the NSS.
It is a way to have greater coverage in terms of statistical production to benefit populations and countries.
The involvement of CSOs in statistical production will enable:
 Broadening the scope
 Civil society’s involvement will widen the scope of statistical production beyond the
planning processes of government often centred around its interest to consider the use
by households and individuals.
 Increase sample sizes and geographical coverage of statistical studies (esp. in areas
where government hardly has access to)
 Resource allocation
 Better contribute to national development plans and the planning of resource allocation
(enabling government to adequately address deficiencies)
 Help avoid or reduce duplications; thus enabling a more efficient use of resources
(dwindling resources will be better used and allocated).
 Collaboration
 Improve the relationship between government and civil society
 Increase public participation and responsible citizenry (critical tenets of democracy)
 Foster collaboration and enabling environment for civil society operations and
 Improve data access
 Inclusive Participation
 Increase transparency in monitoring and Evaluation
 Monitor Policy Programs on National and International Agendas
 Technical capacity
 Will help improve technical capacity (human capital development) –
 Sharing of knowledge
 Data Quality
 Reduce data gaps and strengthen quality of data
 Enable good policy making based on quality data
 Accurate estimation of development and growth potential at national levels
 Build trust and enable an effective consumption of the data and decision-making
 expertise
 Recognition
 Joint-advocacy initiatives, ownership and commitment from government and civil
society
 Increased legitimacy and recognition of civil society (its role & importance)
 In fragile contexts, civil society literally stands in the role of government in producing
data
 Professionalization
 Professionalization civil society in terms of human capital development and strategic
planning processes within society for more efficiency in projects and programmes
planning.
 Operationalisation
 Encourage civil society to be well structured and organised based on their thematic
focus. This will strengthen their influence and command recognition and involvement
to assist government in terms of data production.

17
Therefore, there is a need for an increased consultation between CSOs and NSOs, so that NSOs
can analyse and understand the difficulties CSOs experience in systematising data or metadata.
A strong investment in awareness and communication is necessary. Only in this way will it be
possible to begin to create a solid base that will allow in the future for properly systematising
the information. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the evaluation made it possible to gather
information that will improve the scenario in the future. However, for now the response rate
remains low.

1.5. Main concepts and definitions associated with Civil Society Organisations

From the analysis of several documents on CSOs, it emerged that a multiplicity of concepts
has been used, often with different meanings influenced by the various theoretical, political,
geographical and historical contexts. Regarding National Statistics Offices, the situation is very
different, because there are laws that frame statistical activity and the concepts are more
consensual and standardised, although there are nuances between countries.
Regarding the Civil Society Organizations, although they operate in a wide range of fields, the
various authors have encountered many difficulties in defining them. For example, one of the
scholars of this subject, Paulo Sérgio Pinheiro, evidences this situation in a very clear way,
when he affirms that "Civil society is one of the most cited and at the same time obscure
concepts of contemporary political theory ". For this reason, it is not the purpose of this study
to go into great depth on the subject, but only to present some important concepts associated
with Civil Society Organizations / Civil Society and to give clues to those that are more suitable
for the purposes of this study. In addition, concepts related to the National Statistical Systems
will also be presented.

Beginning with the Civil Society Organisations, the Practical Guide for Civil Society2,
“defines civil society actors as being individuals and groups that voluntarily mobilise in the
form of public actions and participation around shared interests, goals or values that are
consistent with the United Nations goals: the maintenance of peace development, and the
promotion and respect of human rights. Civil society actors promote awareness of human
rights, support communities in formulating and transmitting their concerns, devise strategies,
influence policies and laws, and act for accountability. Civil society actors collect and channel

2
Link: http://www.ohchr.org/Documents/AboutUs/CivilSociety/CS_space_UNHRSystem_Guide_PT.pdf

18
the views of communities so that decisions about public policy are made in full knowledge of
the facts. Civil society actors also provide services on many fronts to those who are at risk and
vulnerable".

It is noted that the United Nations generally uses the term "non-governmental organisations"
to cover all organizations that do not officially belong to the government or to inter-
governmental organisations. As can be seen from this concept, CSOs play a cross-cutting role
at the societal level, thus playing an important role in favour of the well-being of the
populations, especially those most in need. Therefore, given the various actions they
implement, it is essential that they be transformed into statistics, thus contributing to generate
greater evidence of utility for countries and the global scale.

In turn, the Handbook on Police Accountability, Oversight and Integrity defines CSOs as
"citizen associations (excluding their families, friends, and workplaces) constituted on a
voluntary basis to promote their interests, ideas and their ideologies. It does not include gainful
activities (private sector) or government (public sector)". Initially, civil society was confused
with state, relations were based on the values of citizenship, and listed below were the main
concerns of philosophers like Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Ferguson, Smith, Montesquieu and
Hume.

-The philosopher Thomas Hobbes was perhaps the pioneer among his peers in addressing the
question of the origin of society, to define "a separation between the state of nature and civil
society and thus to base the free association between rational men”. He succeeded in
influencing several other philosophers, such as Locke and Rousseau. For these authors, the
term civil society was closely related to the term civility, that is, "respect for individual
autonomy based on security and trust between people".

-More specifically, Hegel identified civil society as a historically concrete space of social
interaction between individuals. Hegel takes his work further by "recognising the role played
by social organisations - corporations, associations and civil society communities - in
mediating the political relationship between the individual and the state" (Colas, 2002).

19
-For Marx the civil society is a space of class dispute. In this way, it is seen that Marx seeks to
highlight how the "social relations of power under civil society are defined by the emergence
of two antagonistic classes: the bourgeois and the proletariat".

-Laine (2014) argues that "ambiguity still surrounds the concept. While it is not necessary to
strive for a universal understanding of civil society, it is essential to carefully examine the
concept, for what is understood by it largely defines what one can expect of it”.

-For Veneklasen (1994) "Civil society is a sphere of social interaction between the family and
the state that manifests itself in the rules of the community cooperative, voluntary association
structures and public communication networks (...) norms are values of trust, reciprocity ,
tolerance and inclusion, which are fundamental to community co-operation and problem
solving, the association structure refers to the whole range of informal and formal organisation
through which citizens pursue common interests".

-Connor (1999) emphasizes the importance of partnership between civil society organisations
(CSOs), the market and the state when it says that "civil society is made up of autonomous
associations that develop a plural network. Civil society will consist of a number of local
groups, specialized organisations and links between them to amplify civil society's corrective
voices as a governance and market partner".

-Onem focuses on how CS enhances the global welfare of the world when it defines CS as "all
individuals and organizations that are not part of government, not motivated by profit or
political power, but working to make the world a place best".

-More broadly, according to Ghaus-Pasha (2004) "Key characteristics of successful civil

societies emanating from various definitions include the following: separation of state and
market; Formed by people who have common needs, interests and values as tolerance,
inclusion, cooperation and equality, and development through a fundamentally endogenous
and autonomous process that cannot be easily controlled from the outside”.

20
-CSOs are also known as the Third Sector3, alongside the state and the private sector. It is true
that the existence of civil society organisations of a public character has long been known.
However, they did not belong to a specific sector of the economy and that as such posed some
difficulty in knowing their importance at the level of the countries. According to the same
article, it was in the 1990s that they became part of a specific sector of the economy, when they
were conceptualized and measured, thus gaining importance and dynamism. Thus, the Third
Sector was defined as "a set of organizations constituted by private agents, but with the purpose
of producing public goods and services, it was possible to give it a distinct identity from the
other sectors, allowing its visualization."

-For Connor, 1999, "civil society is made up of autonomous associations that develop a dense,
diverse and pluralistic network. As it develops, civil society will consist of a series of local
groups, specialised organisations and links between them to amplify the civil society's
corrective voices as a partner of governance and the market".

-The article on The Role of Civil Society Organisations in Governance4 states that “The
experience of developing countries highlights a wide range of such organisations, from large
registered official bodies to informal local organisations, the latter being much more numerous
and less visible to foreigners. These include traditional organisations (e.g., religious
organisations and modern groups and organisations, mass movements and action groups,
political parties, trade and professional associations, non-commercial organisations and
community organisations). Civil society should not be equated with non-governmental
organisations (NGOS). NGOs are part of civil society, although they play an important and
sometimes leading role in the activation of citizen participation in socio-economic development
and policy and in the definition or influence of policies. Civil society is a broader concept,
encompassing all organisations and associations that exist outside the state and the market. "

-In turn, the African Development Bank (AfDB) is of the view that, "civil society that includes
NGOs goes far beyond and includes grassroots organisations, trade unions, human rights
organisations, religious groups, activist organisations, businesses and the professions. All these
organisations are in the space called Civil Society, hence the name of Civil Society

3
“The Challenge of Third Sector Statistics”, São Paulo Em Perspectiva, 17(3-4): 177-184, 2003
4
Aisha Ghaus-Pasha December 2004. 6th Global Forum on Reinventing Government Towards Participatory and
Transparent Governance 24 – 27 May 2005, Seoul, Republic of Korea

21
Organizations (CSOs). According to the AfDB, African CSOs can be categorised according to
the following:
(i) their organisational structure - informal association or official association organised
/ registered for collective action;
(ii) their interests - development, advocacy, civil / human rights and good governance,
monitoring;
(iii) their level of intervention - local, municipal, national, regional or international; and
(iv) its source of funding - member contributions, local / national funding, international
assistance.

It is worth emphasizing, however, that the distinction between these categories is not always
clear or rigid and that many CSOs fall into several categories. “Thus, despite the heterogeneity
of CSOs and associated concepts, they present some common characteristics listed below:
• They are organisations, that is, they have an institutional presence and structure;
• They are private, that is, they are institutionally separated from the state;
• They usualy bear a non-profit distribution characteristic, that is, they do not return
profitable to their managers or to a group of "owners";
• They are self-governed, that is, they are fundamentally in control of their own affairs;
• And they are voluntary, that is, adherence to them is not legally required and they attract
some level of voluntary contribution of time or money.

1.6. Concepts associated with National Statistical Systems and institutional framework

There are several concepts associated with the National Statistical Systems (NSS), but it is not
the purpose of this study to delve into this matter. However, we will cover the main concepts,
always bearing in mind the United Nations Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics, the
African Charter on Statistics and the Statistical Law of the Countries, which are discussed in
Chapter III.
1.6.1. Official Statistics
According to Glossary of Statistical Terms, OECD, Official statistics5 are statistics
disseminated by the national statistical system, excepting those that are explicitly stated not
to be official.

5
Link - http://stats.oecd.org/glossary/search.asp

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1.6.2. National Statistical System (NSS)

According to the same Glossary, the NSS is the ensemble of statistical organizations and units
within a country that jointly collect process and disseminate official statistics on behalf of
national government. In short, it is the body that defines the administrative framework for
producers and users of official statistics, with nuances between countries, depending on the
existing legal framework. Its mission is to ensure that the organs of production and
dissemination of Official Statistics who are mainly public entities and aims to achieve several
objectives, among which:
- Ensure that official statistical activity is developed in a coordinated, integrated and
rational manner, based on harmonized technical-methodological standards;
- Ensure that the official statistics necessary for the development and modernization of
the country are of quality, objective, impartial, timely, sufficient and accessible;
- Access and treat, in order to produce and disseminate official statistics and to ensure
the consistency of statistical unit files, to individualized information, including personal
data, collected from natural or legal persons within the framework of their mission by
public administration bodies and institutions of private law who administer public
services, and their information should preferably be provided;
- Optimizing the use of resources in the production and dissemination of official
statistics, reducing as much as possible the burden on statistical units surveyed, and
avoiding duplication of effort with the consequent use of resources;
- To promote the interest of public and private entities and the general public in official
statistical activity in order to promote their participation and collaboration, in particular
by collecting relevant, reliable and timely statistical data through either specific surveys
or access to administrative sources.

These objectives are comprehensive and give space to CSOs in both access and data
production.

1.6.2.1. Guiding Principles of the National Statistical System

In general, the NSS Law of the countries or the Statistics Act, when they exist, establishes the
principles: Independence, Reliability, Rationality, Non-Excessive Burden on Respondents,
Statistical Authority, Statistical Confidentiality, Statistical Coordination and Statistical

23
Accessibility that reflect the acceptance of the Principles Fundamental Principles of Official
Statistics adopted by the United Nations Statistical Commission in April 1994. Normally the
NSS is constituted by:
i. National Statistical Council;
ii. National Statistics Office;
iii. Central Banks;
iv. Organs producing official statistics
v. Other specialized public statistical structures;
vi. Specialized public statistical training institutions

1.6.2.2. Statistical Council (SC)

Not all countries have an effective NSS and a Statistics Council. In any case, it is an organ of
orientation and superior coordination of the National Statistical System, an organ of State,
which in some cases is presided over by an independent person with recognized scientific merit
in Statistics, in others by the Prime Minister, or the Minister responsible for Statistics.
Normally, this body should have a composition that ensures the representativeness of Civil
Society, which is intended to be balanced between the Public Sector and the Private Sector,
namely through representatives of Public Entities, the Central Bank, Business Confederations,
Trade Union Confederations, academia, among others. It has the responsibility, among other
actions, to coordinate the SSN, to define and approve the general guidelines of the official
statistical activity and to establish the respective priorities, from an average perspective.

The statistical coordination in this context consists of the power of the SC to adopt uniform
statistical standards, nomenclatures, concepts and definitions and other technical instruments
for statistical co-ordination, with the imperative application of statistical producers, so as to
ensure the harmonization, integration and comparability of statistics produced, and minimizing
the burden on respondents.

1.6.2.3. National Statistical Office (NSO)

A National Statistics Office is the central organ of the NSS and it has the statistical authority
of the countries. It has on its responsibility the accomplishment of the large scale statistical
operations, emphasizing the population, business and agricultural censuses. The NSO can still

24
be responsible for producing economic, social and demographic statistics. Theoretically it
should be endowed with the nature of a public legal person, with legal personality, and
technical, administrative, financial and patrimonial autonomy. However, we find different
situations in the continent and without prejudice to their independence, depending on the
countries; they can be under the responsibility of the 1st Minister or Minister responsible for
statistics.

NSO Organizational Model

NSOs can be centralized or decentralized. A national statistical office is centralized when the
management and operations of statistical programs are predominantly the responsibility of a
single autonomous government agency led by the country's leading statistician. Centralization
may include the posting of personnel to other departments or the delegation of certain functions
to geographically separate units, which, however, remain subordinate to the central authority.

According to the Handbook of Statistical Organization, in the centralized model there is a

"consensus on the responsibility for carrying out major statistical operations, such as
population censuses, household surveys, demographic statistics and a wide range of economic
statistics involving censuses and surveys of establishments and companies, as well as prices,
international trade, national accounts and other comprehensive activities. The same can no
longer be said about social areas such as education, health, crime, etc. - where statistics are
based substantially on administrative records collected by other government departments".

It is concluded from the analysis of the legislation of the continent's NSS that the centralized
model is the most used in Africa and more suits the countries facing finantial and human
resources constraints. Regarding a decentralized NSS, as the name implies, the various
agencies are closer to the communities and the personnel are also distributed by the respective
agencies. In this model, the top manager of the institution has a preponderant role in defining
the politics of the institutional policies and in coordinating all actions.

Comparing the two models, it can be concluded that in the functional sphere, experience shows
that centralizing the organizational model is advantageous because it allows concentrating the
constitution of a critical mass of technical competence, whereas in a decentralized system the
personnel is distributed by the various sectoral statistical services and in various Ministries.

25
1.6.2.4. Central Banks

Central Banks constitute one of the organs of the National Statistical System, taking into
account the universal practice of statutory Central Statutory Statute for the production of
Monetary, Financial, Exchange and Balance of Payments Statistics, which is done in close
coordination with the NSOs to ensure the necessary integration of these statistics in calculating
the National Accounts for which they are responsible. In some countries of the continent they
have the responsibility of producing the National Accounts.

1.6.2.5. Sectoral Statistics Data Producers

They are the bodies responsible for the production of sector statistics, such as education, health,
agriculture, among others.

1.6.2.6. National Statistical System Coordination Models

We present below the existing situation in terms of the National Statistical System in most
African countries and a proposal of what we think is a more comprehensive SSN of the future
where all sectors are represented, particularly the private sector and CSOs.
It is noteworthy that the model is comprehensive and presents practically all the actors that
participate in the statistical production, both official and unofficial, with the only difference
being that in the first case, it is a fragmented model and in the second, all the actors are about
the coordination of the National Statistical Council. At the official level, we have the data
produced by the NSS, which includes the National Statistical Council; NSO; Sectoral Statistics
data Producers of (Ministries); Central bank. Outside the NSS (unofficial) are development
partners who can perform statistical operations with the private sector; CSO; Private Sector
and Ministries that produce your data.
- (i) Current situation : Coordinate the national statistics producers (including new
producers and third-party producers)
The following is a model for coordinating statistical activity, where there is a National
Statistical Council coordinating official statistics, including the NSO and the Central Bank. In
turn, the NSO oversees the producing agencies of sectoral statistics, which are usually the
ministries or sectoral public institutions. In this model, there is an excessive fragmentation of

26
the system, which poses constraints. Often the sectors function almost independently, which
poses further challenges in terms of coordinating statistical production and its funding, since
there is no forecast of resources for the whole system-wide operation for a given year. In
addition, one does not know what sectorial producers' needs are in relation to the NSO.

Fig. 1 - Unintegrated National Statistics System Institutional Framework Model

A large part of the statistical production of many countries is borne by the development partners
and they have their own information needs and agendas that do not always meet the priorities
of the NSO. Not all production is carried out by NSO. There is a part that is produced by the
partners directly from the private sector, which is usually outside the NSS. This is a great
constraint facing many NSOs, because studies are often carried out, where information or part
of them already exist, thus duplicating efforts and resources, but also calling into question the
credibility of the information.

Also outside NSS, there are ministries or public institutions that are not producers of official
statistics, but sometimes produce statistics. They are out of the system because they do not have
the necessary conditions to be sectoral producers, that is, they do not passes a strong statistical
unit that would to allow them to produce independently.

(ii): Ideal Situation: Coordinate the National Statistics Producer

This is the model to be considered for an ideal situation where all statistical producers, be they
international organizations, ministries, public institutions in the private sector, NGOs and the

27
Central Bank, work according to the directives of a coordinating body under the auspices of
national production statistics law, as such, all producers must be represented on the board. In
this model, there is an effective coordination of everything that is produced in terms of
statistics.

Fig. 2 - Integrated National Statistics System Institutional Framework Model

This is the model we propose for a statistical development necessary to meet the challenges of
the new era. In this regard, it is essential that decision-makers take ownership of their
commitments. For example, by committing to SDGs, they need to take ownership of them. All
the challenges will require more funds hence a need exists for:
• Strengthened coordination with and among development partners;
• Increase government funding.

This model requires a constant improvement in the coordination of the national statistical
system, with adequate funding and sufficient human resources and effective support to the
sectors. On the other hand, in order to better coordinate actions, it is crucial that NSDS
integrates into the global, continental and regional agenda. This is the only way to anticipate
information needs and produce the information needed to meet emerging challenges.

28
CHAPTER 2: THE CONTEXT OF PRODUCTION OF STATISTICS IN AFRICA

Against the backdrop of the importance of quality statistics for decision-making at the national,
regional and continental levels, this chapter intends to contextualize statistical production in
Africa, based on the main regional, continental and which are directly or indirectly related to
the subject, namely: Agenda 2063, SHaSA II, SDG, Busan Action Plan, Marrakech Plan of
Action, Data Revolution, Big Data and Cartography.

2.1. Development of Statistics in Africa and its importance

"If the leaders are not listening to their people, they will listen
to you - in the streets, in the squares or, as we all too often see,
on the battlefields. There is a better way. More participation.
More democracy. More commitment and openness. In other
words, a bigger field of action for civil society. "
Ban Ki-moon, Former Secretary-General of the United
Nations, remarks at the high-level event on support for
civil society, 23 September 2013.

Providing reliable official statistical information at different demographic, economic, social

and environmental levels, in a timely manner, conveniently organized and accessible for
decision-making at all levels of society, is crucial for the development of Africa. Hence, the
National Statistical Systems (NSS) are of strategic importance for the development of nations.
Politicians, public and private managers, social partners and researchers, among others, will
not be able to carry out their tasks and achieve their objectives effectively and efficiently if
they do not have adequate official statistics on past trends of problems which they intend to
solve, as well as on their current state, in terms that allow them to prospect their future
evolution.

The demand for official statistical information has increased from year to year, due to the
awareness of their role in the decision-making process and due to the authorities' need to satisfy
the well-being of citizens. For this purpose, quality statistical information is crucial for the
planning, definition, implementation, follow-up and evaluation exercises of economic, social,
environmental and cultural policies. In addition, statistics are of paramount importance at all

29
levels. Precisely because of their importance, the countries have official bodies for the
production and dissemination of official statistics.

Official statistical information is essential for the strengthening of national and cultural identity
as well as for the formation of an informed public opinion on an objective basis, making a
decisive contribution to strengthening the exercise of citizenship and, consequently, the
democratic process.
Official Statistics make a fundamental contribution to the formulation, monitoring and
evaluation of different public policies, by helping social institutions, not only with activities in
the field of population welfare, but also by giving social partners, researchers, students and
citizens in general, a more realistic view of the economic and social environment in which they
live and act.

It is acknowledged that in terms of statistical production, the African continent's statistical

systems have greatty in recent years. However, many challenges still remain to be overcome
in order to address the main development agendas, namely Agenda 2063 and Agenda 2030. To
this end, quality statistics at all levels, produced with appropriate methods, are essential to
reflect the African reality and enable comparability between countries. Also, quality statistics
as in the past is an essential element for African integration.

It should be noted that one of the recommendations of the member states of the African Union
within the framework of the African integration process which has been initiated for some time
is the use of harmonized and reliable statistical data in all areas of political, socio-economic
and cultural activities. This fact alone demonstrates the importance that the African
authorities’’ attribute to statistics.

According to the document of the African Union Commission (Third publication, July 2011),
for the African integration process, it is essential to create an appropriate environment
conducive to political stability, the economic, social and cultural development of the continent.
In this regard, Africa needs quality data to address integration issues. Naturally, a complex
process such as this requiring the knowledge of the countries would not be possible if the
continent did not have quality statistical data, harmonized and comparable between the
countries. On this basis, statistics play a fundamental role. Precisely because of this, efforts
have been made by national, regional and continental institutions to improve the production of

30
statistics so that decision-makers can know the real situation of the countries and the
continent’s compliance, with greater objectivity.

Throughout this process, CSOs also play a significant role, as they work closer with the people,
know their aspirations and make a major contribution to the promotion of their well-being.
They also generate a lot of information that should be capitalized on the production of official
statistics for the countries and for the continent.

Despite this progress both at the national and continental levels, Africa still faces challenges in
terms of quality statistical data that allow monitoring the implementation of development
projects and programs. As is known, statistics are transversal, their production is expensive and
there are no conditions to address at the same time in all areas. For this reason, Africa has
prioritized some areas of interest in recent years, such as Civil Registration and Vital Statistics
(CRVS), highlighted in the document on the Status of Statistics Development in Africa,
Governance, Peace and Security Statistics poverty statistics, and economic statistics amongst
others, all of which are subsequently discussed below.

2.1.1. Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS)

The continent still has individuals who are not registered. It is a problem affecting millions of
citizens on the African continent with negative repercussions for the development of different
countries and the level of statistics. This is due the reality that there are some statistics that
without registration data are not possible, such as birth rates, mortality rate, migration rate...
The absence of these indicators prevents the definition of consistent public. Therefore, in order
to give substance to the International Bill of Human Rights and the African Charter on Human
Rights, which recognise the individual's right to be registered and have an identity.

There have been a number of initiatives to improve the status quo, including the Africa Program
for the Accelerated Improvement of Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (APAI-CRVS). The
Africa Symposia on Statistics Development, a South African initiative supported by pan-
African institutions, has also played a key role in promoting civil registries and in producing
vital statistics. CSOs have played an important role in this issue of birth registration, especially
in raising families' awareness on the importance of registration.

31
2.1.2. Governance, Peace and Security Statistics

This is another important domain that was previously -neglected domain. Precisely for this
reason and with the intention of making this area dynamic, it was enshrined as one of the axes
of the Strategy for the Harmonisation of Statistics in Africa (SHaSA) and also present at the
SDG level. The issue of governance is transversal to nations and concerns any country and as
such, it is vital nowadays, above all, to promote the sustainable development of any nation and
the implementation of Agenda 2063 and Agenda 2030. In this regard, the role of statistics in
the promotion of good governance is perfectly understood.

According to the Ninth Joint Meeting of the African Union's Specialized Technical Committee
on Finance, Monetary Affairs, Economic Planning and Integration and the Conference of the
Economic Commission for Africa of African Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic
Development held in March 2016, in Addis Ababa, "most of the existing information on these
issues is produced by Non-Governmental Organizations (Transparency International, Mo
Ibrahim Foundation, Afro-Barometer, etc.) as well as Civil Society actors."

Although there is no unanimity regarding the concepts and methodologies, the great work done
in the production of data on this sector is recognised. Work done on governance, peace and
security has made a positive contribution to the promotion of human rights and good
governance, as well as the consolidation of peace and democracy. The effort initiated by civil
society resulted in Strategy for the Harmonization of Statistics in Africa (SHaSA) –
Governance, Peace and Security (GPS), in which the methodology was created and validated
in partnership between African Union (AU) and United Nations Development Programme
(UNDP), together with five African countries and various international and civil society
organizations.

This working group has been instrumental in boosting these statistics in Africa, having
developed and tested, at the level of some African countries, modules for harmonised
questionnaires on governance, peace and security surveys. Today, some countries are already
producing data, but the challenges remain to validate the methodology at the continental level
and to extend the production of these statistics to the level of the whole continent to meet
demand, especially at the GPS level, but also of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), Goal
16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

32
It should be noted that in this area the continent also heads the Praia Group in Governance
Statistics, which is a City Group under the auspices of the United Nations Statistical
Commission whose responsibility amongst others is to develop methodology on governance
statistics. The Group also integrates national statistical offices and civil society organizations.

2.1.3. Poverty Statistics

At the level of poverty statistics, it is known that poverty has direct impact on their level of
well-being. Therefore, the fight against its eradication is one of the great challenges facing
many countries. To combat it, there must be an engagement of all actors in society, including
CSOs. This is because CSOs are closer to the population and are more likely to be able to
provide concrete support to the poor. They work at various levels, including the empowerment
of families in order to emancipate them. They are responsible for lobbying and advocacy,
promoting social dialogue, combating poverty. In addition, they complement the various
actions taken by the public authorities, in favour of the well-being of the populations.

However, a decent and objective contribution cannot be made if we do not have adequate
statistics on the phenomenon. To date, many countries in the continent have difficulty in
measuring this phenomenon adequately, whilst others spend too much time without measuring
due to the lack of human and financial resources. Poverty surveys are fundamental and help
the authorities to know the real situation of their countries, the level of nutrition of families,
the level of inequality in the distribution of income, etc. In addition, this information is very
important for national accounts capturing the economic statistics of countries.

Efforts must therefore be made by the national authorities, the CSOs and the Pan-African
institutions to support statistical authorities measure this phenomenon, which is poverty. On
the other hand, it should be stressed that this is an area where CSOs have an important role, as
mentioned above, and that measuring this phenomenon also contributes in showing their
importance in the process of promoting development at the country level and, consequently, in
the poverty, with the advantage that they work directly with the populations.
2.1.4. Economic Statistics
At the level of economic statistics, one of the main indicators that measure the level of
development of the countries is the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In this indicator, which

33
summarizes the economy, there are still countries that use a reference year for national accounts
that are quite old and do not always reflect the reality of the moment. There might be
insufficient sectoral statistics necessary for the national accounts, and consequently for the
measurement of GDP in an appropriate way. Many countries do not have CSO data, which has
a negative impact on measuring GDP and, consequently, their weight in the economy. This
situation forces many statistical offices to use indirect methods to estimate the value of CSOs,
for example using social welfare data.

Another important finding is that there are still a few countries in the continent adhering to the
IMF Special Norms for the Dissemination of Data (SNDD). However, there has also been a
great deal of effort on the part of the Pan-African institutions in providing direct support to
countries in the implementation and consolidation of the System of National Accounts 1993
(SNA1993). In order for the Pan-African Institutions, (Economic Commission for Africa and
the African Development Bank) as well as the Regional Economic Communities to create the
appropriate conditions for the desired jump, including the mobilization of necessary resources.

The African Strategy for the Implementation of the System of National Accounting 2008 (SNA
2008) was adopted by the Conference of Heads of Government of the African Union, in July
2010, in Kampala, Uganda. The Africa Group on National Accounts (AGNA) was created in
order to operationalize the actions of this strategy. However, few countries have already
implemented the SNA 2008.

It is recognized that without statistics, Africa cannot assess the desired level of development,
whether nationally or continentally. It is on this basis that the Pan-African institutions, with the
support of multilateral and bilateral institutions in terms of South-South cooperation, have
made a huge effort to promote the development of African statistics. To this end, they adopted
several strategic instruments for the continent, which will subsequently be discussed.

2.2. Statistical Development Agendas

This section will tackle the pertaining statistical development agendas in which CSOs are
addressed to play a role.t

34
2.2.1. Africa Agenda 2063

Africa Agenda 2063 is a very important development agenda for the continent – centred around
the “Africa that we want”. It is also driven by the AU, which has strongly invested in the
realization of the Pan-African vision of an "integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven
by its own citizens, representing a dynamic force in the international arena." This vision will
be achieved through eight specific areas which include amongst others social and economic
development, integration, democratic governance, as well as peace and security as elements of
vision.

Africa Agenda 2063 is a strategic document for 50 years, hence it was necessary to set priorities
for the First 10-Year Implementation Plan. It is an agenda for inclusive growth and sustainable
development that was adopted in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in January 2015 by the 24th
Conference of African Union Heads of State and Government, following extensive
consultations with all the parties of African society. The AU instructed the AUC to prepare the
First Ten Year Implementation Plan for Agenda 2063 (for the period 2013-2023).

This Agenda is anchored on the vision of the AU and is based on the seven aspirations derived
from consultations, namely:
(i) A Prosperous Africa Based on Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development;
(ii) An Integrated Mainland, Politically United and based on the Ideals of Pan-
Africanism and the Vision of the African Renaissance;
(iii) An Africa founded on the principles of Good Governance, Democracy, Respect for
Human Rights, Justice and Rule of Law;
(iv) A peaceful and secure Africa;
(v) An Africa with a Strong Cultural Identity, Common Heritage and Ethical Values;
(vi) An Africa whose development is driven by people, relying especially on the
potential of the African People, particularly for Women and Youth and with
Children in a dignified manner; and
(vii) An Africa as an Actor and a Strong and Influential Global Partner. "

Chapter IV will consider the priority areas for this agenda in which CSOs have a potential role
to play.

35
2.2.2. Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals

Agenda 2063 has inspired the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development Goals, which begins
at the time of the adoption of Agenda 2030 and was approved by the General Assembly of the
United Nations in 2015. Agenda 2030 is a global agenda adopted at the UN Summit on
Sustainable Development in September 2015 which was attended by more than 150 world
leaders.
Given that chapter 4 mainly will address the role of the Civil Society Organizations and
National Statistical Office in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, we will not delve
deeper into this subject here. Therefore, more details will be given in that chapter.

2.2.3. Strategy for the Harmonisation of Statistics in Africa II (SHaSA II)

Alongside the African Charter on Statistics (ACS), the Heads of State and Government of the
African Union also adopted the Strategy for the Harmonisation of Statistics in Africa (SHaSA)
on 25 July 2010, in Kampala, to address the challenges of producing quality statistics in Africa.
This is an important strategy to support African leaders in monitoring their plans and actions,
but also at the global level and as such, fundamental to the African integration process. It
envisages supporting the strategic choices to be made by the African Union as it states that to
"measure the progress made in conducting all the programs listed above, it is essential to have
not only of comparable statistical data in time and space ".

The evaluation of SHaSA showed the need for an intensive adjustment of African statistics to
the current times. In response to this, the African Union with the support of AfDB and ECA
worked on a new version of SHaSA, known as SHaSA II, which is more comprehensive and
meets all major statistical development needs in Africa. In 2017 the review concluded and
currently Africa counts on SHaSA II. It is an extremely comprehensive document and allows
the participation of public, private and NGO institutions. It consists of 17 Specialized Technical
Groups (STGs)6:
At the level of the revised Strategy for the Harmonisation of Statistics in Africa (SHaSA II),
its implementation suggests a profound paradigm shift in terms of African Statistical Systems

6
Table 12 presented in SHaSA II.

36
(ASS) behavior. SHaSA II recognizes the role of CSOs in most statistical activities and
emphasizes that one of the strengths of the NSS is the emergence of new actors, data producers,
where CSOs stand out for their expertise, and as such there is a need to partner with these key
actors.
The following table depicts the various specialized technical groups responsible for the
implementation of SHaSA II.

Table 2. List and composition of specialized technical groups

No Specialized Technical Groups Secretariat Composition (Other members)
STG-GPS (Governance, Peace ECA, AfDB, ACBF, RECs, Member
1 AUC
and Security) States
STG-ES. External Sector
ECA, AfDB, ACBF,REC,AFRITAC,
2 (External Trade and Balance of AUC
Member States
Payments)
AUC, ECA, AfDB, ACBF, RECs,
3 STG-MF. Money and Finance AACB
AFRITAC, Member States
STG-NA&P (AGNA). National AUC, AfDB, REC, AFRISTAT,
4 ECA
Accounts and Price Statistics AFRITAC, Member States
STG-II&T. Infrastructure, AUC, ECA, ACBF, REC, Member
5 AfDB
Industries & Tourism States
STG-PFPS&I. Public Finance, AUC, ECA, ACBF, REC, AFRISTAT,
6 AfDB
Private Sector and Investment AFRITAC, Member States
STG-STE. Science, Technology AfDB, ECA, ACBF, REC, Member
7 AUC
& Education states
STG-So. Demography,
Migration, Health, Human AUC, AfDB, ACBF, REC, Afristat,
8 ECA
Development, Social Protection Member states
& Gender
STG-Env. Agriculture,
AUC, ECA, ACBF, REC, FAO, UNEP,
9 Environment & Natural AfDB
Member states
Resources
STG-CB (AGROST). Statistical AUC, AfDB, REC, AFRISTAT, STCs,
10 ECA
Training and Capacity Building. ACBF, Afritac, Member states
STG- Labour and Informal AfDB, ECA, REC, ILO Afristat,
11 AUC
Sector Statistics Member states
AUC, AfDB, Afristat, REC, Member
12 STG-Classification ECA
states
STG- Statistics on Civil AUC, AfDB, AFRISTAT, RECs,
13 ECA
Registration UNDP, Member states
STG- on sustainable AfDB, ECA, AFRISTAT, RECs, UNDP,
14 AUC
development Member States
STG-ITC for statistical AUC, ECA, AFRISTAT, RECs, Member
15 AfDB
production States, STCs, Centres of Excellence
16 STG- Mobilization of political AUC AfDB, AFRISTAT, RECs, Member
will States,
17 STG-Emerging statistical issues AfDB/ECA AfDB, ECA, AFRISTAT, RECs, UNDP,
Centres of Excellence, Member States

37
2.2.4. National Strategy for the Development of Statistics (NSDS)

In recent years, national, regional and continental authorities and the international development
community have positively assessed the strategic importance that statistics play in defining
development policies, which impose strategic planning on the development of statistical
systems in developing countries. It is on this basis that the Second International Round Table
on Development Results Management, held in Marrakech.

In February 2004, the Marrakech Action Plan for Statistics was developed. Its aim was to
encourage countries to develop a National Strategy for the Development of Statistics (NSDS)
for 2006. The implementation was aimed for the following year in order to have national
statistics for national development policies and the calculation of the MDG indicators for 2010.
To date, practically all countries developed their NSDS, with substantial support from the Pan-
African institutions and PARIS21. The latter produced an advocacy and development guide to
assist statistical strategy project teams in developing countries. This is because for Paris 21, a
growing number of developing countries and donors are realising that it is essential to make
good use of statistical resources in order to implement adopted policies and achieve good
development results.

According to Paris21, better statistics lead to the definition of more successful policies and
enable a detailed analysis of complex social and economic problems, helping authorities to
select the best measures and monitor their effects. Therefore, it should be recognised that in
recent years almost all African countries have made progress in developing their strategies as
important instruments that cover all sectors (public, private, academia, NGOs, etc.) and contain
a vision that countries have for statistical production, mission, and as several strategic axis,
especially:

• Legal, institutional and statistical coordination;

• Improved statistical production and data analysis;
• Promotion of communication, dissemination and use of data;
• Strengthening capacities in human, material and financial resources.

38
NSDS allows effective coordination between producers and data users at national level. In
addition, it establishes a global and unified framework for the continuous evaluation of users
needs and priorities in the field of statistics.

The NSDS instrument helps countries, and consequently the continent, to have a short- and
medium-term vision and is a crucial instrument in the dialogue with national authorities and
development partners. Thanks to this instrument, the national statistical systems will have
greater coordination and a clear vision of what is intended in the short and medium term.

2.2.5. Declaration of Busan

With regard to Cooperation for Effective Development, the Busan Declaration establishes a
framework for such cooperation, which covers a wide range of actors, including civil society
organizations, as a milestone in development cooperation. It is noteworthy that the Busan
Declaration recognises that progress in implementing the aid effectiveness agenda remains far
short of expected, and that the architecture of international aid has undergone profound changes
in the last decade. It therefore calls for the widening of the aid effectiveness agenda to a
"development effectiveness" perspective by bringing together elements and actors of this new
architecture, such as new donors, civil society, private sector, , public-private partnerships or
financing for climate change. This is a very good prospect for funding the activities of CSOs
and statistical offices. Busan's focus on monitoring and evaluation has opened up new
opportunities for funding CSOs and statistics, since funding for statistical activity has been one
of the major problems facing NSS.

It should be noted that Busan Plan logical framework is extremely important in the
measurement of performance indicators, such as the use of statistics in national policies.
Particularly in terms of results-oriented management, where statistics are of great importance,
it is also one of the areas where there are major difficulties. In this sense, the monitoring of
commitment to development through outcome indicators (based, whenever possible, on
nationally produced indicators) is relevant.

Improving the statistical systems of partner countries remains a challenge without which no
progress can be made in managing for results, transparency or accountability. The Busan

39
Partnership is thus based on four shared principles which will be subject to monitoring and
monitoring at global level:
1. Appropriation of development priorities by developing countries;
2. Focus on results;
3. Inclusive development partnerships;
4. Transparency and accountability

2.2.6. Paris Declaration

On the other hand, the Paris Declaration (2005) resulting from the discussions at the Third High
Level Forum reinforces this process by establishing five principles - ownership, alignment,
harmonization, results-based management and mutual accountability - which have guided the
practices of DAC members. It is worth mentioning that the 4th Principle has a direct effect on
the financing of statistical production. It talks to Management by Results: management and
implementation of the aid in order to focus on the desired results and use information to
improve the decision making process.

2.2.7. The Marrakech Action Plan for Statistics

The Marrakech Action Plan for Statistics (MAPS) has proved to be an important catalyst to
ensure better availability of short-term statistics and to strengthen institutional capacity to
improve statistics in the future. Following the Monterrey Summit, the second International
Round Table on Results-Based Management in Morocco in 2004 emphasized the need for a
clear and systematic approach to measuring product implementation, results and the impact of
programs, using quality statistics. At the end of the conference, the MAPS was adopted. This
plan gives a major boost to the production of statistics in Africa by proposing a global agenda
for improving the availability, quality and use of data to support poverty reduction strategies
within a mutually agreed budget and a specific timeframe.

MAPS defines the need to address the challenges of results policy in the global context. It
proposes statistical harmonisation, integration of African data and achievement of the MDGs.
It further recommends that each developing country adopts a National Strategy for
Development of Statistics (NSDS). MAPS addresses the key statistical issues facing countries.
It also provides strategic guidance and appropriate mechanisms to guide and accelerate the

40
development of statistical capacity in a sustainable way in countries. It is supported by the
international statistical community, donors and developing countries.

The activities proposed by MAPS are as follows:

(i) At national level: NSDS s of national statistical systems should be integrated into
the national development process; the participation of all countries in the 2010
census program and increased funding of national statistical systems and capacity
building.
(ii) At the international level: the establishment of an international network for
household surveys, the International Network of Household Survey (INHS),
improved data on MDG indicators and increased institutional accountability for
statistical data from international sources.

These are important actions involving the public sector, private sector, NGOs, etc. and which
remain current within the framework of agendas 2063 and 2030.

2.3. Challenges of the African Statistical System

The major shortcomings of the African Statistical System (ASS) have already been identified
through a number of assessments such as the Addis Ababa Plan of Action for the Development
of Statistics in Africa (ASPA) in 1990; the Strategic Reference Framework for the
Development of Statistics in Africa (CSRR) in 2006, the various NSDS assessments and the
assessment for the development of the Coordination Mechanism for the Implementation of the
African Charter on Statistics.

These assessments have shown that while statistical development has made progress in Africa
in the last decades, it remains limited and the African Statistical System still has institutional
and organisational weaknesses. In addition, it faces coordination, funding and institutional
constraints. However, Africa has been heavily committed to creating the conditions for
statistical development, by creating mechanisms that allow all sectors to participate. For
example, it is to be welcomed that Africa already has a strategy up to 2026 (SHaSA II), with a
plan of action, an associated budget and a resource mobilization strategy, which are all
necessary for its implementation and which will certainly be an important instrument dialogue,
advocacy with partners and countries, in the context of resource mobilization and funding.

41
Another noteworthy aspect is the fact that many African countries have acceded to certain
standards of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), such as the General Data Dissemination
System (GDDS), and the defined Data Quality Assessment Framework (DQAF). In addition
to these efforts are the preparation of the NSDS, the development of harmonized statistical
instruments by the Regional Economic Communities (RECs), and the establishment of the
African Statistical Commission (STATCOM-Africa) in 2007.

The African Charter on Statistics and the Strategy for the Harmonisation of Statistics in Africa
(SHaSA). There are good prospects that if these tools are well used, they will contribute in
boosting the statistics in the continent. To that end, the resources allocated to statistical
activities must be consistent. In addition, there should be a strong focus on strengthening
institutional capacity, improving the profile of statistics professionals on the continent,
improving the coordination of statistical activities and the application of international standards
taking into account the African particularities.
Moreover, it is vital that the National Statistical Systems of many African countries overcome
the shortage of technicians with adequate training in statistics, and improved working
conditions. Particular attention should be paid to the bodies responsible for sectoral statistics,
which concentrate most of the constraints mentioned above and which directly affect the
production of statistics at the country level and, consequently, at the regional and continental
levels.

At the regional level, harmonisation of the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) programs
of statistics should be a priority. It is necessary to reverse the existing framework, betting on
an effective harmonisation at the level of all regions. This is an important aspect and will have
a major impact on improving the quality of statistical production on the continent. In this
regard, a number of national, regional and continental statistical development programs have
contributed, notably the Addis Ababa Action Plan (AAPA), the Regional Strategic Reference
Mechanism (RRSF), the SHaSA, the Africa Symposium on Statistics Development (ASSD),
the National Strategy for the Development of Statistics (NSDS), etc.

2.3.1. Data Revolution

The constraints faced by countries were evident when assessing whether or not the MDGs
targets were met. It is essential to overcome these constraints in the framework of the SDGs by

42
taking advantage of all the technological innovations that exist. In this regard, the Data
Revolution could play a key role in data production in Africa, given the new opportunities it
brings, also notwithstanding the challenges it poses.

It should be noted that the Statistical Data Revolution is closely linked to the great
technological advances of recent years, especially in terms of information technology and
cartography. It also opened up new opportunities in terms of producing statistics and using
those commonly known as "big data" which are generated, above all by the private sector and
NGOs, and which can be collected, stored and analysed in a fast and cost-effective manner. At
the level of cartography, many NSIs have started to use digital cartography instead of classical
cartography, allowing geo-referencing data to a smaller geographical area. This allows
authorities to focus their interventions.

It should also be noted also that these advances and all the associated advantages also bring
some inconveniences that in many cases may conflict with the fundamental principles of
official statistics, especially where issues of privacy are concerned. This is even more sensitive
when it comes to government data for national security purposes. There have been great
discussions about the theme that will certainly revolutionize the production of statistics in the
coming times. It is also necessary to take into account respect for methodologies (concepts and
definitions) as it is also urgent to find the best decisions, so as to take greater advantage of these
great advances and without any fuss. Chapter V will illustrate how CSOs can take advantage
of big data within this emerging issue of data revolution.

2.3.2. Financing Statistics in Africa

Financing the production of statistics is a major handicap that affects most national statistical
offices in Africa. This constraint directly affects the production of quality statistics that shapes
the development of countries and Africa. Statistics need to be seen by national authorities as a
public good, as suggested by the African Charter on Statistics, where funding should be a
national priority. To this end, it is essential that countries comply with the resolutions of the
African Union Heads of State and Government Summit, in which all countries have committed
to allocate 0.15% of their state budgets to the production of official statistics. This is essential
for the data revolution in Africa.

43
One cannot speak of the Revolution of Statistical Data in Africa, if the National Statistical
Systems do not have a consistent and perennial financing. In this context, it is strategic that the
National Statistical Systems continue to focus on the elaboration of National Strategies for the
Development of Statistics s (NSDS), with the priority activities of the countries and associate
with a consequent budget. Unfortunately, most of the time there are priority activities that are
not carried out for lack of financial resources. In many cases, there is a strong financial
dependence on external partners, often with conditions that affect the performance of statistical
offices. It is in this area that CSOs can play a key role through the joint mobilization of
resources for statistical operations.

2.4. Actors of statistical development in Africa

One cannot talk about the importance of statistics, statistical development in Africa, the main
agendas, without addressing the main drivers who act, fundamentally at three levels:

2.4.1. National

At the national level, statistical activity is regulated by the laws of National Statistical Systems,
which are normally constituted by National Statistical Councils. In some countries, the councils
are also designated as National Statistical Committees, which are the top coordinators of
statistical activity at the country level. Next, we have the National Institutes of Statistics, which
are the central statistical production agencies carrying statistical authorities of the countries.
We also have the Central Banks as bodies responsible for monetary, financial and balance of
payments statistics and we have bodies producing sectoral statistics.
Should also be highlighted, other relevant actors in the NSS, such as users, data providers,
media, academics, researchers, training institutions in statistics and demography.

2.4.2. Regional

At the regional level, we have the Regional Economic Communities (RECs), sub-regional,
economic, monetary and customs organizations, and statistical capacity-building organizations
(AFRISTAT and AFRITAC). The activities of these institutions are mainly focused on

44
strengthening the statistical capacities of the Member States; Harmonisation of statistics in their
Member States; and the compilation and dissemination of quality statistical information to
inform decision-making at the regional level. However, a lack of coordination and coordination
between RECs, inadequate human resources in terms of both quality and quantity, the financing
gap have been a major handicap in fulfilling their mandate.

According to the Strategy Paper on Strategy for the Harmonisation of Statistics in Africa
(SHaSA II), RECs, depending on their state of statistical development, can be classified into
two categories:
• "A first category, which includes RECs with a relatively advanced statistical service
and the ability to coordinate statistical activities in their regions: ECOWAS, COMESA,
SADC and EAC.
• The second category is RECs whose statistical activities are still embryonic or non-
existent: BAPS, CEN-SAD, and IGAD".

Stakeholders in the process of statistical development in Africa also include sub-regional

organizations such as the Economic and Monetary Union of West Africa -UEMOA, the Central
African Economic and Monetary Community-CEMAC, the African Customs Union Austral -
ACU-, the West African Monetary Agency - UEMOA. In addition to these actors, there are
also the Regional Statistical and Demographic Training Centres spread across the continent.

2.4.3. Continental

At the continental level, the African Union Commission (AUC), the African Development
Bank (AfDB), the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) and the African
Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) are active. These institutions have acted transversally
in promoting the development of statistics at national, regional and continental level, through
training, financing, technical assistance, among others.
Also worth noting is the emergence of two important institutions created by African Union
Heads of State that will change the status quo of statistics in Africa. These are the Statistical
Office of the African Union (STAT-AFRIC) with its h Headquarters in Tunisia and the Pan-
African Centre for Statistics Training based in Cote d'Ivoire. The establishment of these two
institutions is the fulfilment of a decision by the Heads of State of the African Union following
the adoption of the African Charter on Statistics and the Strategy for the Harmonisation of

45
Statistics in Africa (SHaSA). These two important institutions aim to promote more and better
statistics in Africa, thus solving, definitively and in a sustainable manner, the problems that
statistics are facing the continent.

SHaSA II and the African Charter on Statistics are key instruments for the data revolution that
is intended for Africa. STAT-AFRIC is the institution responsible for the implementation of
SHaSA II in Africa, for the harmonization and coordination of statistical activity at the
continental level. The Pan-African Statistical Training Centre is also a very important African
institution and will work in liaison with STAT-AFRIC. It was created in 2014 and works
mainly at the level of advanced training in the field of statistics and will complement existing
training offers in the African context.

2.4.4. Global

At the international level, several institutions are active in the development of African statistics,
with emphasis on the United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD); the IMF; the World Bank;
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO); the World
Health Organisation (WHO); The International Labour Office (ILO); the Food and Agriculture
Organization of the United Nations (FAO); PARIS21 etc. Regardless of the geographic level
or structure, social organizations can play an uplifting role in national, regional, continental
and global agendas and priorities.

46
CHAPTER 3: LEGAL FRAMEWORK

The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the legal and institutional framework in which statistics
work in Africa. To this end, it is necessary to highlight the main legal and strategic instruments
that contribute to the production of statistics in Africa, focusing on:
1. The Fundamental Principles of Statistics;
2. The African Charter on Statistics;
3. The Law of National Statistical Systems and National Statistical Institutes;

3.1. Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics

The Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics were adopted by the United Nations
Statistical Commission at its 28th Session in April 1994 and were based on the Principles
adopted in 1992 by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe. According to the
United Nations Statistics Division, 10 key principles have been defined that guide statistical
production in the world7:
 Official Statistics is an indispensable element of the information system of a democratic
society, which provides the official institutions of the nation, the economic sector and
the public with data on the economic, demographic, social and environmental situation.
To this end, official statutory bodies should develop official statistics with criteria of
public utility and interest and make them available impartially so that citizens can
exercise their right of access to public information.
 To maintain confidence in the Official Statistical Information, Statistical authorities
shall decide, in accordance with strictly professional considerations, scientific
principles and professional ethics, collection methods and procedures for the treatment,
preservation and presentation of statistical data.
 To facilitate a correct interpretation of the data, the bodies responsible for the Official
Statistics must present the information in accordance with the scientific methodology
on sources, methods and procedures of statistics.
 The bodies responsible for official statistics shall have the right to comment on
misinterpretations and misuse of statistics.

7
(http://unstats.un.org/unsd/dnss/gp/fundprinciples.aspx)

47
  Data used for statistical purposes may be obtained from any source, such as statistical
surveys or administrative records. The Statistical Officials shall select the source
considering the quality, timeliness, cost and burden for the reporting units.
 Individual data collected by statistical bodies for the official statistical preparation,
whether from individuals or legal entities, must be strictly confidential and be used for
statistical purposes only.
 The laws, regulations and provisions governing the operation of National Statistical
Systems shall be made known to the public.
 Coordination between the different statistical agencies in each country is essential to
ensure the coherence and efficiency of the National Statistical System.
 The use by the statistical agencies of each country of international concepts,
classifications and methods fosters the consistency and efficiency of the National
Statistical System at all official levels.
 Bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the field of statistics contributes to improving
the systems for the preparation of Official Statistics in all countries.

These principles were instrumental in the production of statistics in the world and served as a
reference for the preparation of the African Charter on Statistics, as we shall have the
opportunity to note. It should be highlighted however that, these principles are targeted at
statistical offices which are responsible for producing official statistics. The principles
stipulates the production of official statistics in accordance with the public interest (Principle
1), which includes CSOs, but also presents points where CSOs can have critical role in
promoting accountability (Principle 2, 3, 6, 7 and 9) and partnerships (Principles 8 and 10).

3.2. The African Charter on Statistics

Africa has been at the forefront in many important initiatives and has all the conditions to make
a difference in terms of producing quality statistics on the continent. The African Charter on
Statistics (ACS) is a key instrument for Africa, helping the continent to produce its own
statistics, and useful for monitoring and evaluating its regional and continental development
agendas. It is an important instrument that defines the legal framework for regulating statistical
activity in the hemisphere. It is also a strategic framework that will promote the emergence of
African benchmark statistics and will serve as a tool for advocacy and dialogue within the

48
various partners for the development of statistics in Africa. It also serves as a true Code of
Good Practice for the development of their Official Statistics in Africa and for it to become
effective and for countries to respect their principles effectively, it is essential that it be signed
and rectified by the member states of the African Union.

The ACS establishes the statistical production framework in Africa; the Statistical
Harmonization Strategy in Africa, which in turn covers the operationalization of the African
Union Statistical Institute and the Pan African Statistical Training Centre.
Therefore, as already mentioned in this document, the African statistical system has made
important progress in recent years, thanks to the realization of several initiatives and an increase
in the awareness of the authorities of the different countries, due to the importance of statistics
at various levels.

However, to respond to the information needs of national, regional, continental and

international fora, there is still a large gap between supply and demand in terms of statistical
information needed for the continent's development. It is in this context that African leaders
have taken the decision to draw up the African Charter on Statistics with a view to reversing
the existing framework, thus enabling Africa to produce its own data and quality.

This Charter was adopted by the African Heads of State and Government in February 2009 and
according to the African Union, it is guided by the Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics
adopted by the United Nations Commission on Statistics in April 1994. It aims to achieve
several objectives, such as:
 To serve as a guiding framework for the development of statistics in Africa, including
the production, management and dissemination of statistical data and information at
national, regional and continental levels;
 Serve as an advocacy tool for the development of statistics on the continent;
 Contribute to improving the quality and comparability of the statistical data needed to
monitor the process of economic and social integration in Africa;
 Promote respect for the fundamental principles of the production, storage, management,
analysis, dissemination and use of statistical information on the African continent;

49
  Contribute to enhanced coordination of statistical activities and statistical institutions
in Africa, including coordination of partner interventions at the national, regional and
continental levels;
 Strengthen the human and institutional capacities of statistical structures at national,
regional and continental levels;
 To serve as reference for the exercise of the profession of statistics, the code of
professional ethics and good practices;
 Promote a culture that observes the facts based on policy formulation, monitoring and
evaluation; and
 To contribute to the improvement and effective functioning of the African Statistical
System, to exchange experiences and also avoid duplication in the implementation of
statistical programs.

According to the African Union, the ACS governs the following principles that are fundamental
to a quality statistic that are intended:

Principle 1: Professional independence

 Scientific independence: Statistics authorities must be able to carry out their activities
according to the principle of scientific independence, particularly vis-à-vis the political
authorities or any interest group; this means that the methods, concepts and
nomenclatures used in statistical operation shall be selected only by the Statistics
authorities without any interference whatsoever and in accordance with the rules of
ethics and good practice.
 Impartiality: Statistics authorities shall produce, analyse, disseminate, and comment on
African statistics in line with the principle of scientific independence, and in an
objective, professional and transparent manner;
 Responsibility: Statistics authorities and African statisticians shall employ
unambiguous and relevant methods in the collection, processing, analysis and
presentation of statistical data. Statistical authorities shall also have the right and duty
to make observations on erroneous interpretation and improper use of the statistical
information that they disseminate.

50
  Transparency: To facilitate proper interpretation of data, Statistics authorities shall
provide information on their sources, methods and procedures that have been used in
line with scientific standards. The domestic law governing operation of the statistical
systems must be made available to the public.

Principle 2: Quality

 Relevance: African statistics shall meet the needs of users.

 Sustainability: African statistics shall be conserved in as detailed as possible a form to
ensure their use by future generations, while preserving the principles of confidentiality
and protection of respondents.
 Data sources: Data used for statistical purposes may be collected from diverse sources
such as censuses, statistics surveys and/or administrative records. The statistics
Organizations shall choose their sources in consideration of the quality of data offered
by such sources and their.
 Topicality, particularly the costs incurred by the respondents and sponsors. The use by
statistics authorities of administrative records for statistical purposes shall be
guaranteed by domestic law, provided that confidentiality is preserved.
 Accuracy and reliability: African statistics shall be an accurate and reliable reflection
of the reality.
 Continuity: Statistics authorities shall ensure continuity and comparability of statistical
information over time.
 Coherence and comparability: African statistics shall be internally coherent over time
and allow for comparison between regions and countries. To this end, these statistics
shall make combined use of related data derived from different sources. It shall employ
internationally.
 Recognized and accepted concepts, classifications, terminologies and methods.
 Timeliness: African statistics shall be disseminated in good time and, as far as possible,
according to pre-determined calendar.
 Topicality: African statistics shall reflect current and topical events and trends.
 Specificities: Statistical data production and analytical methods shall take into account
African peculiarities.

51
  Awareness-building: State Parties shall sensitize the public, particularly statistical data
providers, on the importance of statistics.

Principle 3: Mandate for data collection and resources

 Mandate: Statistics authorities shall be endowed with a clear legal mandate

empowering them to collect data for production of African statistics. At the request of
statistics authorities, public administrations, business establishments, households and
the general public may be compelled by domestic law to allow access to the data in
their possession or provide data for the purpose of compilation of African statistics.
 Resource Adequacy: As far as possible, the resources available to Statistics authorities
shall be adequate and stable to enable them to meet statistics needs at national, regional
and continental levels. Governments of States Parties shall have the primary
responsibility to provide such resources.
 Cost-effectiveness: Statistics authorities shall use the resources so provided effectively
and efficiently. This presupposes, in particular, that operations shall as far as possible,
be programmed in an optimal manner.
 Every effort shall be made to achieve improved production and use of statistics derived
from administrative records, to reduce the costs incurred by respondents and, as far as
possible, to avoid expensive direct statistical surveys.

Principle 4: Dissemination

 Accessibility: African statistics shall not be made inaccessible in any way whatsoever.
This concomitant right of access for all users without restriction shall be guaranteed by
domestic law. Micro-data may be made available to users on condition that the pertinent
laws and procedures are respected and confidentiality is maintained.
 Dialogue with users: Mechanisms for consultation with all African statistics users
without discrimination shall be put in place with a view to ensuring that the statistical
information offered are commensurate with their needs.
 Clarity and understanding: Statistics shall be presented in a clear and comprehensible
form. They shall be disseminated in a practical and appropriate manner, be available

52
 and accessible to all and accompanied by the requisite metadata and analytical
commentaries.
 Simultaneity: African Statistics shall be disseminated in a manner that ensures that all
users are able to use them simultaneously. Where certain authorities receive advance
information under embargo, to allow them time to respond to possible questions, public
announcement shall be made indicating the nature of such information, the identity of
the recipients and the set timeframe before its public dissemination.
 Correction: Statistics authorities shall correct publications containing significant errors
using standard statistical practices or, for very serious cases, suspend dissemination of
such statistics. In that event, the users shall be informed in clear terms of the reasons
for such corrections or suspension.

Principle 5: Protection of individual data, information sources and respondents

 Confidentiality: National Statistics authorities, African statisticians and all those

operating in the field of statistics in Africa shall absolutely guarantee the protection of
the private life and business secrets of data providers (households, companies, public
institutions and other respondents), the confidentiality of the information so provided
and the use of such information for strictly statistical purposes.
 Giving assurances to Data providers: Persons or entities interviewed during statistical
surveys shall be informed of the objective of such interviews and of the measures put
in place to protect the data provided.
 Objective: Data concerning individuals or entities collected for statistical purposes shall
in no circumstance be used for judicial proceedings or punitive measures or for the
purpose of taking administrative decisions against such individuals or entities.
 Rationality: Statistics authorities shall not embark upon statistical surveys except where
pertinent information is unavailable from administrative records or the quality of such
information is inadequate in relation to the quality requirements of statistical
information.

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Principle 6: Coordination and Cooperation

 Coordination: Coordination and collaboration amongst Statistics authorities in a given

country are essential in ensuring quality and harmonious statistical information.
Similarly, coordination and dialogue amongst all Members of the African Statistical
System are vital for harmonization, production and use of African statistics.
 Co-operation: Bilateral and multilateral statistics cooperation shall be encouraged with
a view to upgrading African statistics production systems.
 Alike, the Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics, the Civil Society Organizations
are a critical actor in promoting accountability of Principles of the African Charter on
Statistics.

3.3. The Law on National Statistical Systems and National Statistical Offices

With regard to the Law on National Statistical Systems (NSS) and the National Statistics
Offices (NSO), various models and solutions are found at country level. Therefore, from the
comparative analysis that we have made of the different legislations of the African countries,
and for the purpose of this handbook, we divide the countries into four groups, using as criteria
the existence or not of an NSS and / or NSO law; CSOs are members of the National Statistical
Council or not; CSOs are producers of official statistics or not, based on law or NSDS:
i. Countries that do not have a National Statistical System, but which have a law of the
National Statistics Office.
In this group of countries, we can cite as an example the case of the NSS of South
Africa, where the law does not provide for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) as
producers of official statistics. However, it should be noted that CSOs in South Africa
are very strong and play an important role in the development of the country at various
levels. Hence it is important to find mechanisms so that their activities are framed in
the NSS Law and consequently contribute to the official data ecosystem of the country.
For example, we highlight the crime statistics in which the ministries are producers,
along with the NSO and we also have the CSOs.

ii. Countries that have a NSS Law and a National Statistical Council (NSC), where Civil
Society (CS) is a member of NSC, but is not a statistical producer.

54
 In this group, we have examples from Angola, Botswana and Cabo Verde, where the
NSS law excludes CSOs. As a solution, these countries have included in their practices
the collection of data on them. However, CSOs do not have powers and are not even
considered data producers. Another solution found was to include CS as a member of
NSC. This is a way of ensuring that the interest of CSOs, their concerns and aspirations
in terms of data are heard and taken into account at the level of the NSC, which is the
state body responsible for coordinating statistical activity and setting national priorities
in terms of production of official statistics.

Kenya can also be included in this group. It has a Council also designated as Bureau,
consisting of the President of NSO, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry responsible
for statistics (Ministry of Finance), a Permanent Secretary responsible for finance and
five members representing the private sector, NGOs, research institutions, Universities
and the Census Office, which in this country is separated from NSO.

iii. Countries that do not have a NSS law, however, at the level of the National Strategy
for Statistics Development (NSDS) a mechanism has been found that fits CSOs.
In this group, we have Uganda as an example that has a similar situation to South Africa,
in terms of NSS legislation, but with a significant difference. Uganda introduced CSOs
into their NSDS. It can be considered as an intermediate solution applicable mainly to
countries where the NSS law does not provide for CSOs as data producers and the law
will not be reviewed in the near future. For example, we have countries whose law is
from the 60's and as such might be out of date. In this case, for countries that do not
know when they will change their laws and want to introduce CSOs as statistical
producer agencies, given their importance, it can be considered a good solution, given
the above.
With the advantage of being an NSDS, it is easy to apply and implement, as it does not
require the approval of the government or the parliament, but only the approval of the
guardianship. Therefore, the Ugandan solution is feasible in these cases and is a way of
giving CSOs an active role. However, the NSO or the central data production institution
has to follow and coordinate the production of statistics of the system. Therefore, the
introduction of CS in NSDS is a way of complementing the law. It is worth adding that
the NSDS is drafted with the involvement of all sectors and is approved by the

55
 government before its entry into force. Therefore, NSO has the objective and legal
conditions for its effective implementation

iv. Countries where the CS is an official statistical producer body.

In this group, there are countries that have CSOs as producers of official statistics. The example
is Algeria. This is the ideal situation for CSOs and NSOs, where everything is framed by law.
Cote d'Ivoire can also be placed in this group. Although the ideal situation is already mentioned,
we must however look beyond the law on how these countries control the statistical production
as a whole, as well as how they enact statistical production. Independently of all, this is the
model that foresees an inclusive NSS which comprises the services of the central
administration, territorial, the specialized public and private statistical organisms, including the
institutions of statistical surveys.

Still in the analysis of the four models presented, we can point out the case of Burkina Faso in
which its law does not specifically say who the producers are, which means that it legally
allows CSOs to also be actors in the production of official statistics. This ambiguity, or perhaps
something purposeful, helps to include CSOs as producer bodies by stipulating that the NSS
understands the coordinating bodies of statistical activity. It does not say whether they are
public bodies, private or mixed.

The law defines the NSS as being a set of services and bodies whose mission is to provide data
to public administrations, companies, national, sub regional, international organizations,
media, researchers, etc. in the economic, social, demographic, cultural and environmental
sectors. It does not define well the public institutions, except only stating that it has to provide
data to the public, statistical training institutions and demographers. As we know, the training
institutions belong to Civil Society. It is another approach that can fit into the Algerian situation
as good practice.

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CHAPTER 4: THE ROLE OF CIVIL SOCIETY AND NATIONAL STATISTICS
OFFICES ON NATIONAL, REGIONAL, AND GLOBAL DEVELOPMENT AGENDA

This chapter will attempt to show how Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and National
Statistical Institutes (NSIs) can play an effective role in achieving development agenda with
special focus on the role of CSOs and NSIs achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. It
will also address why CSOs should be integrated as producers of statistics.

4.1. On National Development Plans and Strategies

In addition to the justification and rationale on which this manual is based, as illustrated in
chapter 1 (section 1.4), it is quite evident that strengthening the statistical capacity of CSOs
coupled with close and effective collaboration and partnership between CSOs and NSOs
(synergies), will eventually enhance the monitoring and reporting mechanisms for achieving
the national development plans due to the following factors:

 Increase Credibility and Accountability;

 Monitor Policy Programmes on development agenda;
 Increased Statistical Awareness;
 Improve access to data within a clear and well advocated framework;
 Increase transparency in monitoring and evaluation;
 Greater opportunity for inclusive participation;

4.2. Africa Agenda 2063 and Agenda 2030

Chapter II (Section2.4), considers the actors of statistical development in Africa at all levels
(national, regional, continental and global). The chapter has also considers in (Section 2.2) the
Statistical Development Agendas including the vision of the AU in regard to agenda 2063.
Given that the priority areas in which CSOs has a role to play.
This agenda includes the following priority areas:
• Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Growth
• Human Capital Development
• Agribusiness / agro-business with added value.
• Industrialization / transformation and added value to natural resources 8
• Creation of workstations
• Social Protection
• Gender / empowerment of women and young people

57
 • Good governance including capable institutions
• Infrastructure development
• Science Technology and Innovation; and
• Culture, Art and Sports.

Agenda 2030 states that "African Citizenship, Civil Society Organizations and all other
identifiable groups need to be involved in information exchange and decision-making
participation, especially in the design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the
Agenda. Thus, both CSOs and statistical offices will play an important role in this agenda, not
only in terms of

4.3. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

The Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development is a milestone in global concertation. It on the
one hand follows the MDGs, whilst on the other hand, it represents a break with the model
used in the MDGs, since both the CSOs and the National Institutes of Statistics were taken into
account from the design stage. As mentioned in Chapter II, the 2030 agenda was adopted by
the United Nations General Assembly in September 2015 and attended by leaders from various
countries.

The SDGs e follow the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) which began in 2000. SDG
agenda came about as a result of a long process that began in 2013 and included a number of
discussions, negotiations and consultations until its adoption. It is an important agenda for the
world and for statistics, which will guide national, regional and global policies by 2030. This
agenda is made up of 17 Objectives and 169 goals, with 231 indicators set to be achieved by
2030 based on various themes such as poverty, food security and agriculture, health, education,
gender equality, inequality reduction, energy, water and sanitation, sustainable production and
consumption patterns, climate change, sustainable cities, protection and sustainable use of the
oceans and of terrestrial ecosystems, inclusive economic growth, infrastructure and
industrialization, governance, and means of implementation.
Of the 17 objectives defined, statistics will play an important role in their measurement, to
achieve the following:
1. End poverty in all its forms, everywhere
2. End hunger, achieve food security, improve nutrition
3. Ensure a healthy life and promote well-being for all

58
 4. Ensure inclusive, equitable and quality education
5. Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls
6. Ensure availability and sustainable management of water
7. Ensure access to cheap, reliable, sustainable energy
8. Promote sustainable, inclusive and sustainable economic growth
9. Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive industrialization
10. Reduce inequality between and within countries
11. Making Cities and Human Settlements Inclusive, Safe, Resilient
12. Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns
13. Take urgent action to combat climate change
14. Conserve and promote the sustainable use of oceans
15. Protect, restore and promote the sustainable use of forests
16. Promoting peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development
17. Strengthen implementation mechanisms and revitalize the global partnership

However, this agenda cannot be implemented if Africa and the world fail to produce the
necessary statistics. It is on this basis that statistics play a key role in monitoring and evaluating
the implementation of this agenda. To this end, every effort has been made to provide the
continent with strong statistical institutions capable of producing quality information at the
national, regional and continental levels. Only in this way will Africa be able to adequately
plan its development in the coming years.

CSOs play a relevant role at the SDG level since they work with communities, especially in
the promotion of health, education, family income and, as such, in the fight against poverty. It
is noteworthy that, in the international arena, CSOs are becoming increasingly important and
visible. The statistics available in the document "Civil society and the United Nations" and the
following illustrate this well.

The United Nations (UN) attaches an important role to non-governmental organisations. The
role and presence of civil society actors in the UN process has increased considerably during
the last two decades. According to Article 71 of the Charter of the United Nations, "the
Economic and Social Council may enter into appropriate arrangements for consultation with
non-governmental organisations dealing with matters within their own competence. Such
understandings may be made with international organisations and, where appropriate, with

59
national organisations, after consultation with the member of the United Nations concerned in
the case".

According to the United Nations Regional Information Center, an estimated 30 000 people
participated in the forums of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) held in parallel to the
Beijing Conference on Women in 1995 and 35 000 the people who took part in the World
Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg in 2002. In addition, statistics presented
by the UN reinforce the importance of CSOs in the global arena:
-20 to 30% of the budgets of certain UN bodies go through NGOs;
-About one-third of United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF's) budget goes to NGOs.
-Thousands of CSOs have since taken an active part in the work of the UN and are not simply
observers.
-One-third of payments made by the United Nations Population Fund are made through -NGOs;
$ 224 million (21 per cent of the total budget) are paid by these organisations, through the
Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.
-Members of the Security Council often consult NGOs
-2700 NGOs are currently accredited to the UN compared to 800 in 1990;
-The International Fund for Agricultural Development awards grants to more than 200 NGOs
and about half of the World Bank-funded projects involve NGOs.

The Agenda recognizes that "The Goals and targets are the result of over two years of intensive
public consultation and engagement with civil society and other stakeholders around the world,
which paid particular attention to the voices of the poorest and most vulnerable.”8. The Agenda
devises Civil Society Organizations as implementing partners saying that partnerships “will
facilitate an intensive global engagement in support of implementation of all the Goals and
targets, bringing together Governments, the private sector, civil society, the United Nations
system and other actors and mobilizing all available resources”. This refers particularly to the
targets under the Sustainable Objective 17 – “Strengthen implementation mechanisms and
revitalize the global partnership”, but the agenda recognizes that partnerships will be vital in
all objectives. Finally, the Agenda states that:

8
Resolution “Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development” adopted by the
Assembly General in 2015 - A/RES/70/1

60
 “We also encourage Member States to conduct regular and
inclusive reviews of progress at the national and
subnational levels which are country-led and country-
driven. Such reviews should draw on contributions from
indigenous peoples, civil society, the private sector and
other stakeholders, in line with national circumstances,
policies and priorities. National parliaments as well as
other institutions can also support these processes. –
General Assembly Resolution “Transforming our world: the
2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”, page 33.

This item recognizes the role of civil society in monitoring the progress of countries by devising
their inclusion in a process that is indispensable for the monitoring of national progress and,
cumulatively, overall. However, the same paragraph is addressed to Member States which must
take into account the contributions of CSOs. It does not devise civil society as a monitoring
entity independent of Member States.

The National Statistical Institutes are not referred to as institutions, but the agenda has two
specific goals that relate to statistical production, namely:
17.18 By 2020, enhance capacity-building support to
developing countries, including for least developed countries
and small island developing States, to increase significantly
the availability of high-quality, timely and reliable data
disaggregated by income, gender, age, race, ethnicity,
migratory status, disability, geographic location and other
characteristics relevant in national contexts
17.19 By 2030, build on existing initiatives to develop
measurements of progress on sustainable development that
complement gross domestic product, and support statistical
capacity-building in developing countries - – General
Assembly Resolution “Transforming our world: the 2030
Agenda for Sustainable Development”, page 27.

61
Thus, the Agenda seeks to resolve a constraint on the Millennium Development Goals
regarding the measurement of progress, something recognized in several articles 9. The
constraint can also be seen in the Millennium Development Goals 2015 report which clearly
states that “Large data gaps remain in several development areas. Poor data quality, lack of
timely data and unavailability of disaggregated data on important dimensions are among the
major challenges. As a result, many national and local governments continue to rely on
outdated data or data of insufficient quality to make planning and decisions”.

The same document stresses the importance of the National Statistical Offices, “International
standards are important for building national statistical capacity. One of the United Nations
Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics states that “the use by statistical agencies in each
country of international concepts, classifications and methods promotes the consistency and
efficiency of statistical systems at all official levels “.

The UN Secretary- General’s Independent Expert Advisory Group on the Data Revolution for
Sustainable Development also highlighted in one of the group’s reports the need for a “Global
consensus on data” to adopt principles concerning legal, technical, privacy, geospatial and
statistical standards that facilitate openness and information exchange while promoting and
protecting human rights”.

Thus, from these constraints and findings experienced in the MDGs, the National Institutes of
Statistics gain a leading role in the SDG with regard to the measurement, after being assigned
the selection of the indicators through the Inter-Agency Expert Group on Sustainable
Development Goals Indicators (IAEG-SDG). The group is constituted by representatives of the
national statistical offices of 28 countries, while the IAEG-SDG was composed of various
Departments within the United Nations Secretariat, a number of UN agencies from within the
United Nations system and outside, various government agencies and national statisticians,
and other organizations concerned with the development of MDG data at the national and
international levels including donors and expert advisers.

9
Dar O. A., Khan M. S. Millennium development goals and the water target: Details, definitions and debate.
Tropical Medicine & International Health. 2011; Easterly W. How the millennium development goals are unfair
to Africa. World Development. 2009; Sachs J. D. From millennium development goals to sustainable
development goals. Lancet. 2012.
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The IAEG-SDG has centralized the selection of country indicators, specifically its national
statistical systems, which have received advice and clarifications from United Nations
departments and agencies, international and local civil society organisations, governments and
other public institutions, researchers, experts among others. The process is guided by the
Group's Terms of Reference, which establishes that: The Expert Group will conduct its work
in an open, inclusive and transparent manner, and will invite experts, as appropriate, from civil
society, academia and the private sector to contribute their expertise and experiences on
indicators and innovative data compilation methods”. It should be noted that the African
members of the IAEG-SDG played an active and concerted role in the process, facilitated by
meetings promoted by UNECA.

Thus, while recognizing the importance of civil society organizations, they are not considered
as producers of statistics in Agenda 2030. However, the Sustainable Development Goals go
beyond the domain of the United Nations and governments and a number of initiatives have
emerged with the purpose of supporting the achievement of the objectives. One of the
initiatives is the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data10 which is a network of
governments, civil society organizations and businesses, and is committed to a number of
African entities, both governments and civil society organizations. The continental agenda has
strongly recognized the role of CSOs. To that end the capacity of these institutions should be
strengthened.

Regarding implementation, the African Civil Society Circle Position Paper, "The roles of Civil
Society Organizations in Localizing the Sustainable Development Goals" suggests that "By
adopting the framing associated with the SDGs, CSOs will be able to participate in debates on
global development, which have local level impacts, and can effectively create an argument
for forming partnerships with government”. This will open up possibilities for CSOs to engage
with governments in the allocation of resources, on facilitating the implementation of SDGs
and on monitoring activities related to this process. In addition, the SDGs can be linked to
CSOs and funding proposals, which could improve the possibilities of international
partnerships and other collaborations. "Thus, it is argued that mainland organizations are
already in the process of identifying their positioning towards the Sustainable Development
Goals here, in relation to their role in financing.” The same document emphasizes the role of

10
http://www.data4sdgs.org/

63
CSOs in monitoring, alternative to that led by state institutions, in a complementarity
perspective.

However, there is no single solution for the continent, since the means of partnership and
incorporation of Civil Society Organizations in the SDG process will depend on several factors,
such as the legal framework of the countries; the relationship between state institutions and
CSOs; and the weaknesses and potentialities of both structures. However, it is possible to
identify certain good practices that will enhance this collaboration, which is discussed in the
following chapters.

In the light of the foregoing, CSOs and NSOs play a leading role in SDGs, both in terms of the
well-being of the population and in the measurement of all the goals and indicators of the SDG.
For the successful implementation of the Global Agenda (Agenda 2030) at the level of Africa,
it is urgent to take into account the Continental, Regional and Local Agenda. Notwithstanding
Chapter 2, Status of Statistics Development in Africa, already present a reflection on the
different Agendas, it is worth mentioning the following:
• NSOs and CSOs are central to the implementation of the African Agenda (Africa 2063).
CSOs and NSOs are partners of the AU and the countries in the implementation of this
agenda, as well as producing indicators necessary for their monitoring and evaluation.
It is also worth noting that the continent has its own strategy - SHSA II, which, in
addition to the NSOs, also assigns CSOs an important role in producing the indicators
that the continent needs.
• At the Regional level, RECs can have their own strategies that should be based on
Agenda 2063 and follow SHaSA II. In this regard, NSOs and CSOs are important
partners in the implementation of their activities and serve as tools for assessing the
effectiveness of their actions.
Last but not least, we have the National Agendas that are fundamental in the pursuit of
the Regional, Continental and Global agendas. They feed all of these agendas, with
country information that is needed to analyze the achievement of the agreed targets.
Precisely for this reason, many countries have been working towards the nationalization
of SDG, where they are incorporated into their National Development Plans and / or
National Development Strategies. These plans are usually drawn up involving all
institutions, whether public or private. Contain challenges and goals, where the levels
of implementation and their impacts are measured. In view of the role CSOs play at

64
 country level, in particular in the fight against poverty, in the emancipation of the most
disadvantaged sections of the population, in reducing levels of inequality, in promoting
gender, are seen as privileged partners of governments in the implementation of their
development plans. In short, both NSOs and CSOs are key in the implementation and
monitoring of national, regional, continental and global development agendas.
The diagram below summarizes the main development agendas, national, continental and
global. It also illustrates the statistical development agendas, continental, regional and national,
as well as the legal framework that guides statistical production and geographical coverage.

Fig 3. Legal and Strategic Framework for Development

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CHAPTER 5 - THE ROLE OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS AS DATA
PRODUCERS

This chapter addresses the role Civil Society Organizations have in Administrative Records,
Surveys, Training, Data Revolution, and Big Data. It shows the perspective of CSOs as data
producers as well as their domains of intervention.

5.2. Organization of civil society as producers of statistical data

As mentioned in Chapter I and II, Civil Society Organizations given the importance they have
been playing throughout time are also called as a third power after the Executive and the
Legislative. They are closer to the population and as such they are agents of development in
their countries and, above all, agents defending the interests of its members. To play this role,
similar to the other classical powers, they have an interest and need of official statistics, a
valuable tool to evaluate their actions, actions and governance in the management of resources,
but also countries, for transparency and for the benefit of the people.

In addition, Agenda 2063 itself warns that "CSOs and all other identifiable groups need to be
involved in the exchange of information and participation in decision-making, especially with
regard to the design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the Agenda ". To this end,
the capacities of these institutions should be strengthened so as to produce directly or in
partnership with the NSOs the information necessary for the monitoring and evaluation of the
said agenda, but also for the national projects and programs. They are aware that by performing
well as data producers, they will be making an effective contribution to monitoring and
evaluating progress in implementing the 2063 and 2030 agendas, at national, regional,
continental and global levels.

This is why, more and more, CSOs have organized themselves to produce and make available
the necessary statistics, and to work with NSOs on data production, mobilization of financial
resources to support data production on the one hand, on the other hand, to monitor and evaluate
the actions undertaken. In many cases, they also have to respond to partners who fund them,
when they do not have the technical resources to produce the information they need, use public
statistical production offices or qualified private firms.

66
 However, as can be seen from the analysis of the results of the surveys applied to CSOs and
NSOs, there is still a long way to go for data production to be effective. This goes through a
number of scenarios, starting with reviewing legislation in most countries of the continent, to
enable CSOs to produce official statistics, thus opening the way to a closer partnership with
the NSOs.

CSOs, because of the participatory approach at the heart of all their actions, are important and
valuable agents in terms of the information they generate. Given their nature they have a
relevant role in raising awareness and communication for people to join major statistical
projects, thus enabling them to broaden the coverage of statistical operations. Of particular note
are the cases of population censuses and national surveys, demographic and reproductive health
surveys, which are designed and carried out by NSOs with a strong involvement of CSOs. The
same applies to the dissemination of statistics that due to the effectiveness of the CSO network,
rapidly the information is disseminated to the communities.

Box 2. Mechanisms needed to link CSOs to be component within NSS

Among the various requirements, the following stand out:
• Review and published the legal framework that defines the mechanisms for involving the CSO
in statistical process;
• Advocacy and sensitization towards CSO;
• Dialogue with CSO;
• Organize workshops with CSOs to increase their statistical awareness;
• As producer, provider or user (interpreted based on country-specific context;
• Coordination mechanisms vis-à-vis government systems: centralized/decentralized systems;
• Collaboratively establish standards operating procedures to ensure quality assurance and
memorandum of understanding to articulate the mechanisms of operationalisation;
• Effective mapping and structuring of the civil society to ensure an adequate coordination
mechanism (engage umbrella bodies and civil society institutions to ensure adequate
representation & accountability);
• Capacity building is key: develop capacity building frameworks – strengthen the capacity of
CSO actors;
• Increase awareness, knowledge and education of both NSOs and CSOs (legal framework on
statistical issues, statistical literacy syllabus, best practices, country case studies);
• Technical capacity NSOs;
• Financial capacity. complementary roles (both CSOs and NSOs);
• Clarity of roles & responsibilities vis-à-vis capacity;
• Joint-accountability framework (national, regional and continental levels) official.

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5.2. Role of Civil Society Organization on Data Revolution

CSOs can also play a significant role at the Data Revolution due to their ability to explore
innovative approaches with decreased bureaucratic requirements. However, it is necessary to
create the technical conditions, with a strong investment in the ICT field so that the information
can be used for statistical production. In this regard, an effective partnership with the NSOs is
important so that Governments, companies, researchers and citizen groups can benefit from the
data revolution that will enable countries to have data more quickly and at a lower cost. In
addition, it will be an opportunity to diversify information, increase opportunity, thus enabling
better decision-making and feedback from citizens in real time. For this reason, it is
fundamental to create mechanisms through which technology and innovation can be shared
and used for the common good.

5.2.1 Official statistics versus non official statistics: Case of Big data

Recall the challenges of the African Statistical System discussed in chapter 2, (Section 2.3),
where, Data Revolution is closely associated with the recently great technological advances.
The following is an outline of our understanding of Big Data. Therefore, the national legislation
on SSN is fundamental and is one of the central issues related to Big Data.
As for the BIG DATA, it is important to say that the data are not statistics. The data generated
by BIG DATA cannot be considered official statistics. On the other hand, we have statistics,
but to be official, 4 aspects are essential:
• Compliance with the basic principles of official statistics
• Compliance with the Law of the National Statistical System
• The producer must be within the national statistical system
• Produced / Used according to concepts, classifications and methodologies to be
approved.
Figure 4 will illustrate how subject to the above four aspects, big data can be transformed to
official statistics. Otherwise the information extracted from big data will only stay at the status
of non-official statistics

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 Fig 4 – The process that generates official statistics from Big Data

Amongst its advantages, data revolution will enable Africa to have more and better statistical
information, increase the frequency of data, improve its quality and thus respond to the
different objectives and targets of Agendas 2063 and 2030. In the case of Africa, the Statistical
Data Revolution, with all its content and challenges was framed within SHaSA II. Therefore,
there is a clear framework for action in relation to the data revolution, which will make it
possible to avoid the backward constraints.

To further this, the Conference of Heads of States and Government of the African Union
adopted a resolution establishing two important institutions in Africa that will play an important
role in promoting quality data and the statistical revolution in Africa. These are, the Statistics
Institute of the African Union and the Pan-African Center for Statistics Training, with
headquarters respectively in Tunis, Tunisia and Yamoussoukro, Cote d'Ivoire, which also play
an important role in capacity building in the field of statistics and the promotion of quality data
in Africa.

Countries have also embraced the concept of data revolution, and the following example
illustrates this.

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Box 3. According to the National Data Revolution Policy, April 2017, Rwanda designed a policy of data
revolution, where it established a strategic framework for the creation of a data and innovation industry
for accelerated social economic development. This policy aims to achieve the following specific
objectives:
1. Establish standards and principles for data management;
2. Establish a framework that favors the development of human capital in data and science,
necessary for this industry;
3. Establish a data security and privacy framework, such as data anonymization and analysis;
4. Establish the institutional data governance framework.
To this end, the document was intended to obtain synergies with a number of reputable and experienced
institutions, as well as training academies such as the African Center of Excellence in data science, the
African Institute of Mathematical Sciences (AIMS), the Center of Excellence in International Labour
Organizations (ILO) and others.
This Data Revolution policy aims to build large databases and analysis useful in the process of socio-
economic development of the country and other important evidence for decision making, monitoring and
evaluation of national, continental and global agendas, as well as the promotion of growth and greater
transparency.
All this reform had a strategic objective, which is to pass from an agrarian economy to a digital one,
based on several innovations. In this regard, the country has been able to implement this policy in all the
country's development plans, especially the SMART Rwanda Master plan.
Although global trends position data as a strategic incentive for the development of economies, this
reform shows that Rwanda has already made huge investments in data development. This can be noted
especially in areas related to the development of technological infrastructure and legal frameworks. In
addition, an important aspect is that Rwanda assigns all responsibility for the implementation of the data
revolution (data ecosystem coordination) to the National Institute of Statistics. This is an excellent
initiative that gives NSO the responsibility to coordinate and supervise the actions of this data revolution,
which is fundamental to revolutionize the process of data production in the country, through public
institutions and CSOs.

5.3. Civil Society Organization perspective on data production

From the analysis of the results of the survey applied to CSOs, it is concluded that only 25%
of the respondents identified themselves as data producers, although 75% believe that they
have the technical capacity to produce their data. Although the answers are diverse, they have
the following grounds to justify their thesis:

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 • They believe they have trained human resources with knowledge and skills in data
collection, compilation and analysis;
• They are able to produce their data but are not able to provide it to the NSO because
of the NSO policy which stipulates that official statistics are to be produced by the
SSN and as mentioned above the CSOs are usually excluded;
• They are also of the opinion that they are available to provide their data to the NSO,
provided there is stricter confidentiality requirements, since most of the data
generated by the CSOs are for internal use of the organization.

Notwithstanding the above, in the view of CSOs, they face the following difficulties in
collecting data:
• Proper organization and systematization of their data;
• Skepticism of the local respondents or beneficiaries regarding the objectives and
importance of the data to be collected, which in the opinion of the respondents
shows a lack of statistical sensitivity, undermining the work in terms of collection
and statistical production;
• The priorities of statistical agencies and civil society institutions for data collection
are not always clear and as such there is a near absence of relevant data on civil
society or, if they exist, are outdated;
• High cost associated with data collection that it is rarely foreseen in their business
plans.

At the level of data production, CSOs face the following difficulties:

• Lack of technological infrastructures, namely servers and software required for the
production of statistics;
• Insufficient financial resources to recruit technicians and consultants with the
know-how needed to cope with statistical production activities;
• Need for increased cooperation between CSOs and government data-production
agencies.

Concerning the dissemination of data, in the view of CSOs, they face the following constraints:
• Lack of synergy between them and government institutions;
• Little or no feedback from communities / beneficiaries and little interest in data
dissemination;

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 • Inadequate technical capacity of CSO employees involved in the dissemination of
data;
• Lack of an effective partnership with NSOs that would allow CSOs to leverage their
capabilities to disseminate their data, including through websites.

In terms of solutions for CSO data to be used in the production of official statistics, CSOs
propose:
• Greater synergies between government institutions with responsibility for statistical
production and CSOs;
• Clear definition of priorities for statistical production and effective
complementarity between both types of institutions;
• That projects and programs in the statistical field be developed, implemented in
collaboration with NSO experts and always based on national development plans,
indicators and targets, in order to contribute to countries' development agendas.
• To be able to recruit consultants and volunteers with capacities in different areas,
focusing on data collection, compilation and analysis activities;
• Partnerships with NSOs, International Organizations and other government
agencies, in accordance with international best practices;
• Strengthening existing capacities.

As for the existence of standardized data collection models suggested by the NSOs and which
CSOs should follow, only a quarter of the respondents responded positively to this question,
which means that it is still a long way to go. We believe that a carefully crafted and empowered
CSO guide would facilitate the work of both types of institutions. CSOs also believe that the
formats used by the NSO do not match their own which makes it difficult to respond. This is
one more domain are the articulation between CSOs and NSOs is necessary. There is a lot of
openness by CSOs to adopt a new data collection model. Of the 75% of CSOs who replied that
there is no standardized data collection model proposed by the NSOs, they are available to use
a possible model to be proposed by the NSOs.

The Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics (Relevance, impartiality and equal access;
Professional standards and ethics; Responsibility and transparency; Prevention of misuse of
data; Efficiency; Confidentiality; National Coordination; Use of international standards; the
production of statistics by the NSO. It will be no different for CSOs who want to be data

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producers. Therefore, it was the intention of this study to know if the CSOs know these
principles, especially those that are producers of data. From the analysis of the CSO responses
we find that only about half of the respondents know these principles. That is why great
advocacy work is needed so that all CSOs that produce data or have the pretension to know
and apply it for the sake of the quality of information and greater transparency.

Regarding the methodology used in data production, the study concluded that most CSOs, i.e.
about three quarters, adopt their own methodologies and the remaining 25% their
methodologies are proposed by the partners. Regarding the role of CSOs in improving NSSs,
they suggest the following actions:
• Advocacy on where to build in a sustainable way some infrastructures designed for
the development;
• Establish a platform for regular exchange of information with the National Statistics
Office;
• Introduces National capacity building programs on the Role and Ethics of statistics
in Development with CSOs;
• Awareness, Analysis and Data dissemination.

In order to know how CSOs would produce their data and be recognized the producers of
official statistics, they are of the opinion that the following actions are necessary:
• Sign MoU with the Ministry of Planning and the National Statistical Offices to
organize data collection and validation depending on their field of competence;
• CSOs need to collaborate with consultants / experts from the National Statistics
office and universities who can support their technical structures and through
capacity building of other staff / volunteers to produce statistics;
• By using the methodology of international best practices in data collection and
partnership in NSOs;
• They can provide staff as surveyors / enumerators;
• They need to be trained and engaged;
• There needs to be strong collaboration;
• Their inputs must contribute to higher developmental goals;
• The outcome of the studies must serve their need;

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 • They can take part in annual or periodic review meetings or engagements on key
issues (e.g. civil society sustainability, legal and regulatory frameworks,
philanthropic giving).

Meanwhile, in the quality chapter, in order to train CSO staff for better data production and
coordination with the NSOs, CSOs propose the following training actions for their
organization:
• Fundamental basis of official statistics, Sharing Data portal management;
• Role, importance and Ethics of statistics in Development;
• Principles and Methodology in data collection and data analysis;
• Capacity building on data collection, production, analysis and dissemination;
• Any training opportunity that seeks to enhance the capacity of civil society
practitioners in collecting and managing data will be welcome, especially those that
emphasize the importance of statistical data for development (applied statistics) and
how to quantitative balance with qualitative data.

It is noted that all CSOs surveyed will be interested in participating in courses promoted by the
NSOs for the collection, systematization and production of statistical data. It is clear that there
is a willingness of the CSOs to improve their data production and an effective sharing with the
NSOs, so there are conditions for a work of proximity between both institutions to their own
benefit and to the countries. Regarding inconsistencies in reported data, the concern is to
explore the role of CSO in enhancing data quality or else in the limitation of the study.

Concerning the areas of interest of CSOs in terms of capacity building, they highlight:
• Institutional support with modern data collection tools with mapping; sharing
crowdsources data;
• Methods and techniques of data collection, production, analysis and dissemination;
• Research Methods and techniques;
• Qualitative and quantitative studies;
• Survey design;
• Data management and reporting;
• Data management and analysis tools such as Excel, SPSS, STATA.

In order to improve data collection, CSOs propose the following solutions:

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 • Trainings, validation sessions, collaboration between various institutions of specific
data;
• Promote Field Research for most projects and Programs;
• Participatory and community consultation in most projects and programs;
• CSOs collaboration and partnership with Universities and Research institutions;
• Questionnaire design, access to information and transparency.

On the other hand, with regard to the improvement of the dissemination of data, CSOs propose
as solutions:
• Improve internet access;
• Advocacy throughout national and international workshops;
• Establish a platform / network among CSOs and statistical agencies for information
sharing;
• National capacity building program on ethics and importance of statistics;
• Partnership between NSOs and CSOs enhanced capacity on dissemination and
improved access to information.

At the data analysis level, CSOs propose the following improvement solutions:
• Build a database including data from various sectors, validate the data models with
various stakeholders;
• Consider the missions of various stakeholders to build the appropriate requests on
data;
• Provision of training and software programs on data analysis;
• Placement of skillful consultants on statistical analysis in CSOs;
• Transparency, multi-stakeholder engagement and best practices.

For CSOs to have official statistics produced by them, it is necessary to:

• Build a national platform on statistics coordinated by the National Statistical Office
/ Ministry of Planning;
• Placement of Statisticians from Universities and Governments in the Development
of Projects and Programs with CSOs;
• CSOs should be accredited by Governments / National statistical offices to produce
statistical information;
• Building capacity of CSOs;

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 • Training and collaboration.

For the full performance of their activities and having a reporting mechanism, CSOs would
like to produce statistics related to the following areas:
• Database on Land use management;
• Impact of climate change on economic growth and poverty;
• Impact of Solid Waste management on the Health of people;
• Population, Environment and Health.

Asked to comment on the areas where CSOs are already producing data, they pointed out the
following:
• Actually, on land use; in a near future on health and education infrastructures;
• Environment;
• Education;
• Forest Conservation;
• Population and Health;
• We are cross cutting institution. Some areas of interest may include;
• Youth employment and their engagement in community development;
• Civil society technology uses and adoption;
• Legal and regulatory framework.

It can be seen from the analysis of the results that the themes are the same as those produced
by the official statistics, although there are differences regarding the areas. This reinforces once
again the need for close cooperation between the institutions.

In terms of Civil Society institutions considered to be good practices in data production and
cooperation with the NSO, the following were pointed out:
• South West Development Authority(SOWEDA);
• Civil Society Network on Climate Change in Nigeria and Society for Family Health.

5.4. National Statistics Office perspective on data production

From the analysis of survey responses to NSOs, only about three out of ten CSOs produce
official statistics. According to the NSOs, CSOs can participate in the statistical planning and

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production process, especially in the development of tools and methodology. However, to
produce official statistics, they must:
• Be enrolled as such at the NSDS level;
• Provide for the NSS law the participation of CSOs as data producers;
• Develop statistical capacities and have a framework that guarantees quality;
• Have established mechanisms of collaboration, for example through memorandums
of understanding (MoUs).
In this process, there is a great openness on the part of NSOs to support CSOs in the production
of statistics. According to them, they can support in different strands, which are:
• In training;
• In the questionnaire design;
• In the methodology (Classification, concepts, sample);
• In data collection;
• In the clearance of the data;
• In the data analysis;
• In dissemination.

In terms of quality, it is noted that more than three quarters of the respondents do regards CSOs
statistics as being of quality, and more than 80% of respondents do not consider statistics
produced by CSOs to be official. This is for several reasons, including:
• The responsibility for producing official statistics is entrusted to public institutions;
• CSOs do not have a clear methodology for statistical production;
• CSO is not a member of National Statistical System;
• Official statistics are produced by the SSN, according to the fundamental principles
of statistics, the African Chart of Statistics and the SSN law;
• There is no control over the production of CSO statistics;
• CSOs are not yet conversant with the aspects of quality assurance framework;
• Statistics produced by the CSOs have to meet the standards and criteria set by the
NSO, and approved by the General Director of the NSO for such statistics to be
official statistics;

Therefore, it is essential that there is more approach, partnership and synergy between the two
types of institutions, so that CSOs can use all the appropriate procedures and methodologies
needed in the production of statistics and in use in the NSOs. It is a way of improving their

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collection processes and that the data they produce are credible to the benefit of populations
and countries.
Asked to comment on whether NSOs accept CSOs as producers of official statistics opinions
differ among respondents, with slightly more than half (54.5%) agreeing to this possibility. The
NSOs justify their theses, with the following arguments:
• CSOs should be represented on the SSN as statisticians;
• The statistics produced by CSOs must meet quality criteria and follow the
methodologies suggested by the NSO;
• These are people who interact with economic data and the environment and are the
best interviewees of the tools.

Yet the NSOs argue that official statistics are the responsibility of public institutions, where
CSOs do not. Furthermore, they believe that there is a lack of scientific means and rigor on the
part of CSOs, such as in the area of defining methodologies, with sampling, which prevents
them from producing official statistics. As a solution to the aforementioned finding and to
enable CSOs to produce official statistics, the NSOs surveyed propose that:
• CSOs participate with the NSOs in the statistical production process to ensure
transparency throughout the chain;
• CSOs also participate in the sensitization of statistical operations and request,
whenever necessary, authorization and visas to the NSOs for statistical production,
in order to ensure the robustness of the technical dossiers on their responsibility;
• Participate in the definition of methodologies and support in training actions;
• Training their stuff on the appropriate and correct methodology and Design
representative sample and timing of data collection of survey;
• To establish data quality checklist for accessing data quality;
• The NSO needs to develop a guiding framework that CSOs can use in production
of official statistics;
• In case any CSO member needs to collect certain information, NSO evaluates the
data sources, the methodology used and the way of collecting the same data for this
purpose;
• To help or coordinate with CSOs to keep a record of their primary data and to make
it available at any time that is required.

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In the opinion of the respondents, collaboration with this CSO is good and with positive results
thanks to several factors:
• Support from experienced NSO technicians;
• Use of best methodologies, based on best practices;
• Through Surveys and administrative data and collaborating with the relevant key
stakeholders;
• User and producer engagement through user-producer workshop;
• Using statistical methodologies, data collection techniques;
• Whenever there is a statistical operation, the NSO prepares methodologically the
samples, trains the field staff and the staff of the cabinet and unfolds in the collection
of data;
• These data are processed and disseminated with the support of international
consultants and experts in the different specialties throughout the stages of
statistical production.

According to the NSOs the experience of working with CSOs has been overall positive and
rich in lessons, because CSOs also hold very interesting field knowledge and are shared with
NSOs. In addition, there is a partnership of awareness-raising in the large statistical operations,
taking advantage of the fact that CSOs work directly with the populations. Experience in
specialized training with NSO consultants and technicians at field level is also to be recorded.
Regarding the mechanisms used by NSOs to CSOs, the following stand out:
• Mechanism used by the institutes of world statistics (investigations, recapitulations
and administrative acts);
• Reporting and analysis of results;
• Consultations through technical committees;
• Focus group meetings;
• Annual action plan - communication with users;
• Each technician who participates in experiences with international specialists, both
in the country and abroad, assimilates a variety of knowledge that, in turn, is
transmitted to other colleagues.

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 Virtually all NSOs are unanimous in recognizing that there have been improvements in the
production of CSO statistical data.

Box 4. Capacity requirements are needed for CSOs to channel their data to be a component of
official statistics
A strong investment in CSO training is essential in order to be considered as a component of the NSS
and that the data generated by them are considered official. For this purpose, several requirements are
required:
• Organizing workshops on legal framework for statistical process by the national statistical
authority;
• Capacity building in the use of modern technologies in data collection process;
• Training of the CSOs in questionnaire design in line with national approved standards;
• Compliance with the national standards on statistical process;
Legal capacity
• Understanding of ethical and responsible use of statistical data;
• There should be education on compliance with the fundamental principles of statistics;
• Develop knowledge and capacity on what CSOs need to do to convert non-official statistics
into official statistics;
Institutional capacity
• Establish institutional framework for collaboration to ensure an engagement of CSOs through
the right channels and mechanisms;
• Consider the peculiarity of smaller organisations that could potentially be relevant sources of
data and contributors to the process (inclusive process);
Technical capacity
• Initiate the capacity of CSOs to be part of the data production process;
• Capacity building in statistical processes: sampling, methodology, data collection (survey
designs, focus group discussions, interview techniques), data processing, analysis, training on
statistical classification and report writing for various Staff within the civil society;
Infrastructural & financial capacity
• It is important for the CSOs to possess their own IT-Infrastructure such as Servers, databases,
Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), among others;
• Software (statistical packages);
• Source for funding support.

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CHAPTER 6 - THE ROLE OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS AS USERS OF
STATISTICS

This chapter is also very important for the study, as it analyzes the experience of Civil Society
Organizations as data users, data analysis, Data Revolution and Big Data.

It is noted that the statistical data produced by NSSs are often not used adequately by public
authorities, the private sector and CSOs. Therefore, NSSs have the responsibility wherever
necessary to draw attention to the proper use of official statistics and to correct
misinterpretations when they occur. It is a way of promoting the statistical culture at the country
level, improving the visibility and correct use of the data. This should not be interpreted as
regulating the use of official statistical data, but rather as an appropriate follow-up to the use
of statistical data, in order to ensure that users understand the meaning of the data they are
using, how to use it and its limitations.
CSOs are privileged interlocutors among the populations. Their involvement as a producer and
user of data could be useful in promoting the importance of statistical activity in society at
large, which will result in better use of statistics and therefore better formulation of real needs
of statistics and demand satisfaction of those needs. As a consequence, society in general and
decision-makers in particular will be more motivated to fund statistical activity, which as
already mentioned in this handbook, is extraordinarily onerous.
In addition, CSOs are an important source of data, and this importance can be enhanced in
areas where NSS has difficulties in meeting data production for one reason or another. The data
they generate can be processed by themselves, or the NSS can help them produce their data,
which may ultimately be official statistics.
Due to its proximity to populations, it justifies its association with the data collection process.
In short, they would be an important asset that contributes to raising awareness during statistical
operations, and could even provide staff for field work or assist in selecting them. It would be
a way to improve the response rates of various statistical operations.
They constitute an important category of users. It is recognized that the participation of users
in the statistical production process improves data quality, including issues related to the
relevance of the numbers produced, transparency in the production process, data accessibility.

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6.1. Organization of civil society as users or consumers of statistics

Due to the nature of CSOs and especially to the requirements of the donor partners that fund
their activities, they need to use statistical information to support their projects and convince
partners of their relevance, but also to illustrate and justify the results of the activities carried
out. It is true that, in the absence of official statistics on intervention sectors, they are obliged
to produce their data even when they do not have the technical capacity to do so. Therefore, it
makes sense for CSOs to be members of the National Statistical System (NSS) and to be a
statutory official body by law. In cases, where the law does not allow, as already described in
the analysis of the African statistical legislation, Chapter II, an option would be to fit them in
the NSDS as Uganda did. Therefore, they are also important users of statistical data.

In order to analyze the role of CSOs as data users, a specific set of issues addressed to CSOs,
but also to NSOs, was taken into account. Therefore, this chapter has been divided into two
parts, in order to capture the two perspectives, the CSOs and the NSOs.

Normally NSDSs incorporate the information needs of NSS. As already mentioned in most of
the countries of the continent, CSOs are represented at the level of the National Statistics
Councils, which coordinates statistical activities in countries and sets statistical priorities. It is
therefore likely that the information to be produced within the NSDS will meet the needs of
CSOs. If this does not happen, they could conduct their specific surveys in collaboration with
NSOs. In addition, the NSOs should sensitize the public on the availability of the official
statistics produced by the NSS e.g. a platform.
The type of statistics needed by CSOs is very dependent on the context in which they operate.
These include the following categories:
Demographic and Social Statistics
• Education
• Population
• Gender
• Labor statistics
• Poverty statistics
Economic Statistics

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 • National Accounts
• Inflation
• Government Finance
• Trade
• Transport
• Communication
• Construction
• Agriculture
Environmental Statistics.

Box 5. The required capacity of NSSs to provide data needed by CSOs

At the level of the NSOs, certain requirements are necessary for them to respond adequately to the
information needs of CSOs, for example:
• The need to understand the mode of operations of the CSOs in different thematic areas;
• Capacity building in the use of modern technologies in data collection process;
• The use of e-GDDS (General Data Dissemination System), and SDDS (Special Data
Dissemination Standard) in statistical process;
• The use of GSBPM (Generic Statistical Business Process Model);
• Understand the key players and mandate of civil society organizations to be able to engage
them effectively;
• Develop deeper insight into the demand of data and expectations from CSOs;
• Assess the cycle of demand and develop capacity to service these CSOs’ demand;
• Financial capacity to produce the data;
• Human resource base to respond to the growing data needs;
• Increased technical capacity to carry out their mission;
• Adequate infrastructural equipment & systems to share the results of the studies and meet data
needs.

6.1.1 Civil Society Organizations perspective on data use

CSO perspective on the analysis of the interview results shows that all CSOs are formally
constituted. The legal and regulatory framework is key to enable civil society operations and
growth. Civil Society Organizations need the enabling environment and legal backup to
conduct their activities in respect of their freedom of expression, association and assembly.
And about three quarters of the respondents said they have no legal obligation to provide their
data to the NSO. However, the data have been provided on an informal basis.

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Regarding the level of satisfaction with CSO data produced by official statistical institutions,
only half of the respondents were satisfied. They point to two important reasons underlying the
half of class dissatisfaction:
• There is sometimes lack of precision, as they do not use some tools like mapping
the areas;
• Not much attention is given to the work of civil society for statistical analysis.

In order to reverse the existing framework, CSOs suggest the following:

• Mapping of areas concerned with some commodities like agriculture, ranching and
extractive industry management;
• The National Statistics offices have to work in collaboration with civil society
organizations to actually verify that the information produced and published by
CSOs are real and based on their current achievements / impacts with relevant
capacities;
• Policy Change and Collaboration with stakeholders on statistics;
• There needs to be more engagement between national statistical agencies and Civil
Society Organizations to reflect and explore avenues to bring civil society to the
mainstream of statistical agencies.

In carrying out their activities, specifically in the projects design and monitoring of their
actions, CSOs need several relevant statistics that are most often produced by NSOs:
• Data on management and use of soils, forests and protected areas;
• National infrastructures, with emphasis on health, education, transportation;
• Socioeconomic data (GDP and CPI);
• Indicators on the Sustainable Development Goals;
• Environmental and climate change;
• Population;
• Poverty and employment;
• CSO databases and mapping;
• Household Income;
• HDI.

As already mentioned in the document, statistics are cross-cutting and apply to everything. It
is of great importance, since it shows us with evidence who we are, where we are, and where

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we are going. CSOs as institutions that work with populations, the use of statistical data is of
great utility and helps to introduce greater objectivity into their actions. According to CSOs,
they can reap many benefits from the use of statistical data, highlighting:
• Give orientations in a right way to link the government and the communities on
development preoccupations;
• National and international visibility in promoting Development agendas;
• Credibility and trust among Government, National and International partners;
• Attract potential sustainable partnership with Governments and Donors;
• Attract grants and awards;
• Strengthen institutional capacity of the organization;
• Information, Transparency and Accountability;
• Design well informed strategic plans;
• Plan their interventions;
• Put their resources to best use;
• Generate report;
• Reduce cost;
• Be more impactful.

6.1.2 National Statistics Office perspective on data use

The similarity of the above described in the perspective of the CSO, also in the case of the
NSO, was put a set of specific questions that allowed us to understand the CSOs data access,
the existing collaboration, among others. From the analysis of the survey results, it can be seen
that about half of the respondents give the CSOs access to the data produced. However, in order
to make this assignment more effective, the NSO proposes:
• Have a formal request addressed to the head of the NSO;
• That the quality of data produced by CSOs is positive;
• That there is respect for the protection of individual data and that they follow the
concepts and methodologies used by the NSO.

For the cases in which the NSO do not give access to the databases, they present the following
arguments:
• By law, NSOs are barred from granting access to databases;

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 • NSOs use various data sources, including CSOs, but only as raw material for
statistical production. But they publish and disclose their own data;
• There is a need for formalized collaboration agreements between the NSOs and
CSOs, so that the principles guiding statistical production are duly taken into
account by CSOs;
• Mechanisms need to be put in place to ensure that CSO data are NSO-certified, thus
making their data securely available.

Notwithstanding the findings already verified, practically all the NSOs surveyed explain to the
CSOs how a statistical operation works and how the calculations are performed. However,
there is a need for greater cooperation regarding the production and monitoring chapter so that
there is a guarantee of compliance with the rules that guide statistical production and thus
guarantee the quality of the data produced.

Data Revolution and Big Data

At the level of Data Revolution and Big Data, it is noteworthy that new information and
communication technologies have opened up new opportunities in terms of desirability and
access to data, in direct benefits to users in general.

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CHAPTER 7 - PARTNERSHIPS OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS AND
NATIONAL STATISTICS INSTITUTES

The objective of this chapter is to understand and analyze the existing partnerships between
CSOs and NSOs in data production, mainly through the survey conducted. The chapter will
also approach the information coordination and sharing between institutions, and the role of
CSOs as producers of official statistics. Before entering CSO itself, it should be noted that
CSOs are already developing a great deal of cross-border partnership, thanks to the varieties of
policy areas and the active and effective role they have played improving the living conditions
of the population. Precisely because of this, several international organizations have created
space to allow CSOs to participate.

According to AfDB, "the demand for their intervention in both service delivery and policy
work compels CSOs to operate beyond national borders - at sub-regional and regional
levels11”. According to the same source “Poverty reduction outcomes can be broader, deeper,
and more sustainable where appropriate stakeholder groups in civil society help design, steer,
and otherwise participate in them. Those actors can reinforce public sector institutions, while
not substituting for them”.

The SDG also recognizes that partnerships are vital to achieving the goals of global
commitment, which is to leave no one out on the 2030 horizon. Notwithstanding this
perspective being scattered throughout all the Goals, it finds a greater echo in the goals of
Sustainable Objective 17 - Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global
partnership for sustainable development.

7.1. Civil Society Organisations perspective on Partnerships

Generally, the survey showed that CSOs are eager to partner with NSOs. They can add much
to the NSOs, especially in terms of support for awareness-raising in statistical operations, but
also in the mobilization of financial resources. However, they have the notion that the greater

11
Cooperation with Civil Society Organizations. Policy And Guidelines, OESU, October 2009.
https://www.afdb.org/fileadmin/uploads/afdb/Documents/Policy-Documents/10000024-EN-COOPERATION-
WITH-CIVIL-SOCIETY-ORGANIZATIONS-POLICY-AND-GUIDELINES.PDF

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know-how in terms of data production is on the side of NSOs and an effective partnership
would contribute to improving the quality of the information they produce and would be a sine
qua non condition to become a producer organ of official statistics at the level of the countries
that make up the continent.

Regarding the challenges, CSOs are of the opinion that they are of several orders and extend
to both types of institutions, with the following exceptions:
• Improve their systems to enable data sharing, such as through online portals;
• Improvement of requests for information from the NSOs, with the introduction of a
statement of their objectives, especially when it involves data of a financial nature;
• Have the feedback from the NSOs, on the data provided by the CSOs, especially
regarding quality issue. It is a way of strengthening partnership and enabling CSOs to
improve in the future;
• Promote greater synergy and collaboration between CSOs and NSOs, which is essential
for good quality work for both institutions and countries.

Asked if, in the last five years, CSOs had collaborated with the NSOs in data production, only
one institution responded affirmatively to this question, which is not enough to extrapolate.
Regarding the stages in which the CSOs collaborate with the NSO, they are of the opinion that
this happens fundamentally during the sensitization, data collection and dissemination phases.
However, for CSOs, countries only have to win if there is a comprehensive and effective
partnership with NSOs. Therefore, they advocate a fruitful relationship between the parties that
favors the production of quality statistical data. To that end, they propose the following
solutions:
• Capacity building on data collection, validation and sharing;
• Regular communication through workshops and seminars between CSOs and statistical
agencies;
• Establish working sessions between CSOs and statistical agencies.
• CSOs should report their activities and programs regularly to National Statistical
Agencies;
• Capacity of the CSOs in statistics and collaboration;
• Their engagement should be mutually beneficial. As mentioned above, CSOs could
supply decent amount of information and so on;

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 • Statistical agencies could also help develop standard indicators and practices, build
capacity of civil society actors, facilitate access and use of data.

7.2. National Statistics Office perspective on Partnerships

From the analysis of the interview results, it is concluded that from the point of view of the
NSO, the relationship with CSOs is generally good. However, there is no strong collaboration
between the NSOs and CSOs. Only roughly a quarter of the NSOs surveyed have already
worked with CSOs at some stage of statistical production, including the sensitization strand.
According to the NSOs, this weak partnership with CSOs is since most of the time CSOs work
at the administrative level rather than the production of data and have objectives that do not
match those of the SSN.

Furthermore, in the opinion of the NSO, the legal framework in most countries does not
recognize the statistics produced by CSOs as official. These findings lead to a lack of closeness
to CSOs.

Moreover, according to the NSOs, there is no guidance document for the production of data at
the CSO level, which makes it difficult for the institutions to collaborate in the production of
quality statistics. Notwithstanding these findings, whenever there is a need, there is some
collaboration between the NSOs and CSOs, even on an informal basis. This further emphasizes
the need for the legal framework\ joint framework \ guidance document that has been suggested by both
groups.

Although in some cases there are collaboration protocols signed between the institutions, which
are fundamental to define the framework of collaboration that facilitates the production of data,
the sharing of information between institutions, or even co-financing of statistical activities, in
the opinion of the NSO still not enough. For most of the time this mechanism of collaboration
does not exist, which is why the NSOs have opted for informal contacts and other times, in the
meetings in the National Statistical Council, where normally the CSOs participate with
members.

In other cases, at the request of CSOs, the NSOs have supported, above all, the definition of
technical and methodological instruments, such as questionnaire design and sampling. One

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noteworthy aspect has to do with the great support that NSOs have received from CSOs,
especially in the mobilization of the population, through public awareness campaigns for the
main statistical operations, involving, in particular, traditional authorities and churches, theater,
dance, journalists, mass media, NGOs, companies, Union of workers, volunteers and people of
good will.

About nine out of ten NSOs have already worked with CSOs in sensitizing the population to
various statistical operations. For NSOs, in terms of awareness raising, partnership with CSOs
was relevant and contributed to successful implementation of various projects:
• General Population Census;
• Household consumption surveys and poverty;
• Education, Health, Employment;
• Demographic Health Survey (DHS), Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS);
• Governance;
• Agriculture.

At the level of data production, it is noted that about two-thirds of the NSOs have already
cooperated with CSOs at virtually all stages of a statistical operation. There has also been strong
technical support from the NSOs in defining small statistical operations methodologies,
developing questionnaires, sampling training, collecting data and producing reports. In short,
for the NSOs, the cooperation of the NSO with these institutions has generally been that of
Producer versus User of statistical information.

Regarding information sharing, with emphasis on databases, it is noted that more than 80% of
the NSOs surveyed use their databases to support CSOs in their activities, especially in the
definition of samples. However, in some countries, databases are not made available due to
legal impediment.
Asked where NSOs are available to support CSOs in order for their produced data to be
considered official statistics, the NSOs were adamant in reporting that they are available to
support in all domains that are within their reach.
Another fact worth noting is that virtually all NSOs that responded to the survey explain to
CSOs how a statistical operation works and are available to support them. If we take into
account that the perspective is that CSOs are actively involved in the production of statistical
data and that they are producers of official statistics, thus complementing the data ecosystem,

90
this openness on the part of the NSOs and also on the part of CSOs it goes in a good way. These
are favorable conditions for a more effective partnership for the production of quality data,
with scrupulous respect for the principles that guide the production of official statistics.

Another important domain in terms of partnership between CSOs and NSOs that need to be
explored and energized is Data Revolution and Big Data, taking advantage of all the existing
synergies and the innovations that are emerging each day, in benefit of both parties and
ultimately, the data users. Big Data is particularly relevant to fill the existing data gaps,
although caution should be taken since, not all explored data are statistics, and the FPOS should
always be safeguarded. Nevertheless, CSOs can lead in identifying and elaborating analysis
frameworks of their domains of work and that integrate both data from the official statistics,
and that of Big Data. It should be noted that some countries are already integrating Big Data in
their official statistics, which is the case of Senegal.

To achieve the complimentary role between the NSOs and CSOs (in the context of proposed
collaborating mechanisms that link CSOs to be a component of a given NSS) it will require
full participation and partnership between the CSOs and NSS in regards to the statistical
production process.

They need to be grouped and well-structured in order to create an adequate entry point for
collaboration. In addition, there is also a need for better collaboration with the NSOs, thus
enabling them to strengthen their structures.
Further studies could be conducted on “identifying the best strategies of organizing and
structuring CSOs in integrating them in the NSS”.

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Box 6.
Good Practices

In Egypt, in the process of data collection, the surveyor needs to get a permission from
CAPMAS to ensure an adequate design of the questionnaire, and to ensure high rates of
response. The data collected is also stocked in the CAPMAS database.

In Egypt, although there are 40,000 CSOs, they are lacking of awareness of the value of official
statistics and how they have been produced. There is a need for CAPMAS to start advocating
the value and the meaning of official statistics as a starting point to collaborate with this sector.

In Somalia since 2014, the NSO started conducting surveys including the labour force survey.
The statistical act is still under the parliament house for endorsement, however, the private
sector and CSOs play a crucial in data collection. This calls for coordination between NSO and
CSO.

In Cameroon, the forest sector and World Resource Institute (a CSO) play a crucial role in
data provision and participate in mapping and classification. Currently this CSO signed a
protocol with the Ministry of Planning which has enabled it to expand its activities in land use
planning and infrastructure development tracking as well as in health and education sectors.

In Nigeria the National Consultative Committee on Statistics has two representatives from
private sector and two from CSOs.

In Tanzania, law number 9 view CSO like other ministries as agencies. The data produced by
agencies can be treated as official statistics subject to the approval of the NSO.

In Nigeria, the league of CSO that represents a conglomerate of over 80 CSOs requested for
an advocacy visit for open advocacy on better integration in the NSS.

In Ethiopia, the consortium of 400 CSOs (Consortium of Christian Relief and Development
Association) are collecting data and will continue to collect data although the government do
not yet recognize the collected data. They hope that the data will be recognized in the near
future.

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CHAPTER 8 - CONCLUSION

This chapter aims to present the main conclusions of this study. We can conclude from this
study that CSOs play an important role at the level of countries, regions and the continent. They
have made a significant contribution to promoting peace and stability in some countries,
supporting the poor, monitoring various actions, advocating with public authorities, raising
public awareness of various issues and strengthening accountability. They have been important
agents of citizenship promotion and as such have been gaining their legitimacy over the years,
with their own merit, and often even settling with the national authorities. For these and other
reasons, but also because CSOs work closer to the people, with cross-cutting actions on the
ground, they have seen their importance increase and have become great partners of
governments.
According to the document entitled "global associative revolution," there has been a massive
increase in organized, voluntary, private activity literally in every corner of the world. For this
reason, civil society is today an important player in global governance, as well as contributing
to the democratization of international relations. From this study, and particularly from the
analysis of the results of the CSO and NSO surveys, several conclusions were reached, namely:
1. The legal and institutional framework of NSOs at the level of most African countries
does not favor the emergence of CSOs as official data producers. As a result, the
production of data by the CSOs does not follow the standards required by the NSOs.
This legal gap that regulates the performance of these institutions that produce data can
be an obstacle to dialogue and partnership that should be salutary between both
institutions and which in turn may lead to the production of more and better statistical
information. These are important premises, so that in future CSOs can aspire to be
producers of official statistics.
2. There is progress in CSOs in terms of data production and partnership with NSOs.
However, there is still a long way to go so that they effectively contribute to producing
evidence and that the data they produce are used or used as official statistics.
3. CSOs generate a lot of information from different sectors. However, this information
is not transformed into official statistics, with obvious losses for its own activities and
with repercussions at the country level.
4. CSOs have worked with the NSOs, mainly in mobilizing financial resources necessary
for the implementation of several projects, in sensitization and communication at the

93
 level of statistical operations, making the population adhere to the different initiatives,
taking advantage of the work of proximity with populations.
5. Still a small percentage of CSO respondents to the survey are data producers. This can
be explained by the limitations found in the statistical legislation of the countries.
6. There is a insufficientof human and financial resources at the CSO level to deal with
data-producing activities.
7. Notwithstanding the previous paragraph, partnerships between CSOs and NSOs are
mostly informal.
8. CSOs face various financial difficulties and qualified human resources. In addition,
there is also insufficient awareness of the importance of producing and using statistical
data in their actions.
9. CSOs also face constraints in the production and dissemination of data, mainly due to
the weak synergy with the NSOs and the weak capacity of their technicians.
10. The need for CSOs and NSOs to set data production priorities so that the data produced
are responsive to the needs of both parties and that there is complementarity.
11. It is noted that CSOs are interested in producing their data, following the quality
standards. However, CSOs often adopt their own methodologies for data collection,
and in other cases they are defined by their partners.
12. There is a great deal of openness on the part of CSOs to adopt standardized data
collection models that may be proposed by the NSO, thus facilitating the work of
systematizing CSO data.
13. NSOs have an interest in having CSOs as data producers and therefore propose respect
for certain prerequisites such as: the SSN law should provide for the possibility of CSOs
to be data producers or incorporate this possibility at the NSDS;
14. CSOs must have technical skills in statistics and have a quality framework; there should
be established mechanisms of collaboration, for example through Memoranda of
Understanding (MoUs).
15. Partnerships between CSOs and NSOs are positive. However, they are few expressive
and most of the time, they are informal. In the opinion of the NSO, it is because the
objectives of the CSOs work more at the administrative level and their objectives are
different from those of a statistical institution. Furthermore, according to the NSOs, the
legal framework in most countries does not recognize the statistics produced by CSOs
as official ones. In addition, there is no guiding document for data production, which
makes it difficult for institutions to collaborate to produce quality statistics.

94
 16. Experience of NSOs in working with CSOs is considered to be globally positive and
rich in lessons, bearing in mind that CSOs also hold very interesting field knowledge
and are shared with the NSOs.
17. CSOs are aware of the importance of using statistical data for decision-making.
Therefore, in their activities, especially in the elaboration of projects, justification of
funds put their dispositions, they use statistical data of several domains, emphasizing
the management and use of soils, forests and protected areas, environmental data and
on climate change.
18. CSOs face several challenges that need to be overcome in order to enable effective
cooperation with the NSOs, with a focus on improving their information systems,
allowing for the sharing of data, for example via online portals; the need for NSOs to
substantiate their requests for information and provide feedback on the data they receive
from CSOs.
19. Regarding Data Revolution and Big Data, CSOs can play a significant role, as they
produce a great deal of data that is not considered statistics and also supports the
promotion of administrative records.
20. It is necessary to transform the data generated by CSOs into statistics, which entails the
creation of technical conditions, with a strong investment in ICT, such as technological
infrastructures, servers and software required to produce statistics. An effective
partnership between CSOs and NSOs is essential so that Governments, companies,
researchers and citizens' groups can benefit from the data revolution, enabling countries
to have data more expeditiously and at a lower cost. These innovations will allow the
diversification of information, increase the opportunity, thus enabling better decision-
making and feedback from citizens in real time.
21. Mechanisms must be created through which technology and innovation can be shared
and used for the common good.
22. There is a need for public awareness to both NSOs and CSOs on their roles in the NSS.

Hence this manual is of strategic importance no to UNECA only, but certainly to other Pan
African organizations, to CSOs, to NSOs, as well as to users of information in general. For this
to happen, the link between CSOs and SSNs is of strategic importance. That is why there must
be a strong partnership between CSOs and official statistical production institutions. In this
sense, an articulated work between these institutions will enable CSOs to better organize their
data and / or submit to NSOs which in turn will produce the official information showing the

95
actual contribution of CSOs at country level. In another perspective, NSOs would be required
to support CSOs in the data production so they can be integrated in the data ecosystem. In this
case, focus should be given to training on data collection procedures and instruments.
Certainly, this is the way forward, because CSO statistics give a clear picture of the role they
play at the country level and provide a basis for policies and initiatives aimed at improving the
production of useful information.
In summary, the role of CSOs is statistical processes can be at all levels, including,
coordination, data collection, and monitoring and evaluation.

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CHAPTER 9 - RECOMMENDATIONS

As already mentioned in this Handbook, there is a lot of literature on CSOs. However, there
are virtually no documents that address the role of CSOs in statistical production. Hence it is
the purpose of this chapter to give orientations on the necessary actions, thus presenting the
following recommendations:
1. Review the statistical legislation of most African countries in order to create the
conditions that favor the production of official statistics by CSOs. Where a solution to
the SSN law is not possible, which is not always easy, an alternative solution would be
through the NSDS, following the example of Uganda.
2. Definition of a clear framework of institutional collaboration between CSOs and NSOs
that provides funding, awareness-raising, sharing and production of statistical data.
When this is not defined in the law, it is fundamental to adopt mechanisms at NSDS
level, or signatures of institutional collaboration protocols clarifying the roles of each
institution.
3. Apply the Fundamental Principles of Official Statistics and the African Charter of
Statistics in the different phases of data production.
4. Advocacy work with countries, showing the importance of having CSOs as important
axes of NSS.
5. Greater awareness among CSOs of the importance of producing and using official
statistics.
6. CSOs should work closely with the NSOs at all stages of statistical production. Both
NSOs and CSOs need to establish credible networks with known platform to enhance
the collaboration.
7. Strengthening the technical and financial capacity of CSOs to meet the demanding task
of producing statistics.
8. Strong investment in the training of CSO staff in the fields of methodology, data
collection, production, analysis and dissemination, in accordance with best
international practice, in order to have human resources properly trained to produce
evidence, useful in the foundation of their projects.
9. Fundamental work in CSO awareness, but also with its partners, on the importance of
using statistical data in their activities.

97
10. To have a permanent dialogue between CSOs and NSOs, so that the data produced is
useful to data users and that there is an effective complementarity in the process of
producing statistics.
11. Greater synergies between CSOs, NSOs, International Organizations and other
government agencies
12. Revise data collection model and questionnaires to facilitate its completion and to be
supported by the NSO.
13. Have a closer and more effective partnership between CSOs and NSOs covering all
stages of data production and including awareness raising.
14. CSOs need to improve the information system so that they can share their data.
15. NSOs need to improve their requests for data by introducing a rationale, or explanatory
note, and giving feedback on the quality of the information received.
16. Improve coordination of activities executed by all producers, including CSOs in order
to avoid overlap and waste of resources.
17. CSOs should invest heavily in the production of data in order to translate their actions
into evidence, in numbers, and thus to measure the real contribution of CSOs to the
economy at the level of countries, region and continent.
18. At the Data Revolution level, it is suggested that a global data innovation network be
set up, bringing together organizations and experts from the field of ICT, and helping
to make more efficient use of innovations for data production. It is a way of making
greater use of the high availability of data, by adopting the best practices that will be
useful in monitoring SDGs, in improving efficiency, and in encouraging collaborations,
identifying critical research gaps and creating incentives for innovation.
19. Invest in ICT, with emphasis on the technological infrastructures, servers, software and
hardware required to produce statistics.
20. CSOs should improve the use of the data generated mainly by administrative records,
thus taking full advantage of the great opportunities of Big Data have at their disposal
for the production of more and better data.
21. Create the conditions for mapping CSOs, in order to have a well-organized and
structured register, fundamental for the management of the different actions
undertaken. It will be an opportunity to set up a database and at any time to draw
representative samples for studies that quantify and qualify CSOs on particular
phenomena.

98
22. A strong commitment to the data dissemination is recommended in order to enhance
transparency.
23. A separate similar study to see the role of RECs or he role of private sector in statistical
process can be a recommendation for further studies and this can may be added as one
of the limitations to this study
24. Although the manual is shared by both the NSO and the CSOs, however, the
involvement of the Pan-African institutions (UNECA, AU, AfDB) is recommended to
advocate for the implementation of the recommendations of this handbook.
25. CSOSs create advocacy messages to governments to further increase their budget
allocations on statistics.
26. In terms of the implementation mechanisms, it is recommended to create an EGM to
follow the implementation of the recommendations of this handbook and propose any
improvements that may be justified.
27. The identification of an NSO in each region, to work with CSOs, in the guidance of this
handbook is proposed on a voluntary basis.
28. It is desirable for UNECA to use its network of partners in promoting this manual, thus
facilitating its effective implementation.
29. Should extend the document to national statistical offices and stakeholders to review
and share inputs
30. NSOs should take a leading in the process of integrating the CSOs in the NSS.
31. The responsibility to deal with the challenges go beyond NSOs and CSOs. Although
NSOs must take the leading role in this process, however, the AUC, AfDB, PARIS 21
etc. must be engaged in this process.
32. Design an analysis plan that will describe how to measure the impact of CSOs in NSS
as well as the impact of NSSs in strengthening the statistical capacity of the CSOs.
33. Assess the impact of CSOs in NSS, in terms of quality and quantity of the statistical
production, by the CSO.
34. Identify the statistics produced by the CSOs
35. Engage relevant stakeholders on the involvement and contribution of CSOs into the
national statistical system.
36. Conduct Periodic Review meetings between CSOs and NSOs with coordination the pan
African institutions.
37. In order to make effective the use of this manual, both by the NSO and by the CSOs, it
is essential that a coordination and implementation mechanism be established at the

99
 continental level, including on the one hand the Panafricans institutions (UNECA,
AfDB and the Union Africans) and on the other hand the African Stats and the Pan-
African Statistical Center.
38. Finally, we recommend, that for its better implementation, it is important that the
Committee of Directors General of NSOs (CoDGs) invites the CSOs and the private
sector, development partners, as well as the foundations that support statistics in Africa
to participate in the different sessions as observers.

Box 7. Workplan for Impact Assessment

Main steps on designing an analysis plan that will describe how to measure the impact of CSOs in
NSS as well as the impact of NSSs in strengthening the statistical capacity of the CSO:
• Identify the CSOs;
• Identify the impact of the CSOs in NSS with regard to the extent of their involvement
in the data production process;
• Design an analysis plan that will assess the impact of CSOs in NSS (in terms of quality
and quantity of the statistical production);
• Identify the statistics produced by the CSOs.
Design an analysis plan that will assess the quality of data produced by the CSO.
Engage relevant stakeholders on the involvement and contribution of CSOs into the national
statistical system.
Develop a comprehensive impact assessment plan (including building a Theory of change, defining
indicators, developing evaluation design).
Conduct Periodic Review meetings between CSOs and NSOs.

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ANNEXURES

I. WORK PLAN

Deliverables Timeline/unit days

A. To produce a draft report in a version of handbook on the role of CSOs 60 days

in statistical process within Africa.
B. An Expert Group Meeting will be organized in which to present the 3 days
consultant’s document;
C. The remarks and recommendation provided by the EGM will be 3 days
incorporated by the consultant to produce the final version of the study
to be presented during the next CoDG.

101
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III. QUESTIONNAIRE APPLIED TO CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS

IV. QUESTIONNAIRE APPLIED TO NATIONAL STATISTICS OFFICES

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