The Governor of ||Kharas Region, Aletha Frederick, has called for a collective approach to statistical data development to ensure that socio-economic development goals are achieved. 

She made the call during the high-level regional sensitisation meeting for the National Strategy for the Development of Statistics held at Keetmanshoop. 

Organised by the Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA), the regional sensitisation meeting was to build a shared understanding of the National Strategy for the Development of Statistics framework and its importance to national policy-making and planning.

"The involvement of local governments, private sector players, civil society organisations, and academic institutions is essential in building a comprehensive NSDS that reflects our aspirations and diverse needs."

Moreover, Frederick urged stakeholders to prioritise the mobilisation of resources dedicated to statistical data development. 

"In the ||Kharas Region, we encounter many challenges ranging from socio-economic disparities to pressing environmental issues. To navigate these complexities effectively, it is imperative that we have access to accurate and relevant data that truly reflects the realities we face. Statistics possesses the remarkable ability to unveil the truth about circumstances."

Also speaking at the consultative meeting was ||Kharas Regional Council Chairperson, Joseph Isaacks. 

"We are serious with information sharing and information acquisition. We need this. There is also the duplication of data and duplication of information. I am very keen to hear the unemployment data."

NSA this week will also facilitate a workshop for technicians handling statistics and visit several institutions to find out how they collect and manage data.