Fiji joined the global observance of World Statistics Day, emphasizing the importance of data quality, accessibility, and modernization. Celebrated every five years, the event this year focused on the theme “Quality Data, Accessible for All,” allowing the Fiji Bureau of Statistics (FBOS) to showcase its journey of transformation.
During the celebration, various divisions within FBOS shared their strategic visions and detailed ongoing efforts to enhance data collection, analysis, and dissemination processes. The aim is to ensure that statistical information is beneficial not only to researchers and policymakers but also accessible to students and communities as young as primary school level, fostering education and grassroots planning.
The Bureau announced it is making strides in reviewing the Statistical Act, with a new bill anticipated by December designed to reinforce its legal framework. This review reflects FBOS’s commitment to strengthening the governance of data, addressing existing gaps, and improving statistical practices to keep pace with evolving needs.
FBOS also highlighted the significance of an upcoming National Population and Housing Census planned for 2027. Chief Executive Kemueli Naiqama expressed the Bureau’s preparedness for this monumental task, asserting that they are assembling teams and committees to ensure meticulous planning and preparation for the census. The proactive approach aligns with broader initiatives to bolster data governance and independence, allowing for more informed decision-making across various sectors.
A pressing concern shared during the event was the current gaps in Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators, where approximately 42% remain untracked due to insufficient data. The focus on data modernization not only addresses growth in demand for reliable statistics from various stakeholders but also aligns closely with Fiji’s ambition to drive significant policy developments, ensuring that economic activities linked to natural resources, like agriculture and tourism, are accurately represented.
Fiji’s commitment to improving its statistical systems heralds a positive path forward. By enhancing data accuracy and accessibility, the Bureau aims to reinforce its role in supporting sustainable development and creating informed policies that reflect the country’s challenges and opportunities. The initiatives undertaken signal a hopeful outlook for the nation, allowing for better preparation and strategic planning in the years leading up to 2030. Through strong partnerships and robust data frameworks, Fiji is poised to build a more resilient and prosperous future for its citizens.
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