African Statistics Day Commemorated in Kenema with Focus on Digital Innovation

The Eastern Region Office of Statistics Sierra Leone has joined the rest of the continent in commemorating African Statistics Day 2025, marked today, 18 November 2025, with a call to embrace innovation in data collection and analysis.

This year’s theme, “Leveraging Innovation in Data & Statistics to Promote a Just, Inclusive & Prosperous Society for Africans,” aligns with ongoing national efforts to strengthen data-driven decision-making and development planning.

The celebration, held in Kenema, brought together statisticians, government officials, students, security personnel, local councils, and civil society representatives to reflect on the role of data in tackling inequality, advancing inclusivity, and driving sustainable growth.

The event featured presentations, discussions, and exhibitions highlighting the new tools and technologies Statistics Sierra Leone is adopting to improve the quality, accessibility, and use of national data.

Delivering the keynote address, Regional Manager David Bayon underscored the importance of adopting digital tools and community-based data collection approaches to strengthen development outcomes. He stressed that innovation in statistics goes beyond technology and includes building partnerships and empowering local actors to participate meaningfully in data processes.

Participants also called for increased investment in statistical capacity building, especially within regional offices, to ensure that communities across Sierra Leone are adequately represented in national data systems.

As African countries continue to confront challenges in education, health, governance, and economic growth, the commemoration served as a reminder that reliable, timely, and innovative data remain central to building a just and prosperous continent.