The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) is making significant strides towards establishing a Bougainville Bureau of Statistics, a critical development for enhancing evidence-based planning, accountable governance, and institutional preparedness. This initiative gained momentum following a successful intergovernmental meeting between ABG representatives and PNG’s National Statistical Office (NSO), where both parties reached key agreements to facilitate the transfer of statistical powers via a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The MoU, anticipated to be signed later this month in Buka, will lay down the legal and operational framework for Bougainville to take on statistical authority as outlined in the Sharp Agreement and the 2001 Bougainville Peace Agreement. Dr. Steven Kolova, Deputy Secretary for Strategic Planning and Policy Coordination within the Department of President and Bougainville Executive Council, headed the ABG delegation during the meeting. The NSO was represented by Hajily Kele, Deputy National Statistician for the Population and Social Statistics Division, along with Rennie Moat, Coordination Manager for the Statistical Field Services Division.
Dr. Kolova emphasized the importance of the Bougainville Bureau of Statistics, asserting that it will greatly enhance government planning, service delivery, and decision-making through access to reliable data and insights. He remarked, “In every nation, be it developed or developing, data and statistics play a significant role—a nation without data is a nation without direction.” As Bougainville approaches greater autonomy, the ability to gather, analyze, and use dependable statistical information will be vital for evidence-based policy making, effective resource allocation, and tracking development progress.
He outlined a phased approach undertaken by the Department of President and Bougainville Executive Council to build statistical functions, ultimately transitioning into a fully operational Bureau of Statistics, which will guarantee long-term sustainability while adhering to national data quality standards. “Quality statistics enable us to understand our population’s needs, measure economic performance, track social indicators, and plan strategically for our future. This is not merely a technical function—it is foundational to accountable, responsive governance that serves the people of Bougainville,” he added.
Legal review of the MoU is reportedly advancing well, ensuring alignment with Part XIV of the National Constitution, the Organic Law on Peace-Building in Bougainville, and the Bougainville Constitution. Under the proposed framework, the ABG will create its own statistical legislation, with support for comprehensive capacity-building and institutional development from the NSO.
Hajily Kele confirmed the NSO’s commitment to ensuring Bougainville develops robust and independent statistical capabilities. “This partnership reflects our shared responsibility to ensure data-driven governance serves the people of Bougainville,” he stated. This initiative not only promises to bolster governance but also aims to empower the region’s citizens through informed and inclusive policy-making.
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