Have you ever thought about how reliable data can make a real difference? How can we guarantee that the statistics gathered across Uganda genuinely shape policies that affect our daily lives? These important questions were the focus of an engaging two-day training session, expertly organised by the EPRC in partnership with the Uganda Bureau of Statistics at their offices in Entebbe.
From August 5th to 6th, 2025, government planners, advocacy officers and communications officials came together to improve their skills in statistical advocacy. Our own Elizabeth Birabwa Aliro and Florence Nakazi had the honour of leading a key session on ‘Statistical Advocacy: Addressing Barriers and Exploring Enabling Environments,’ and they shared their enthusiasm for future opportunities to build capacity among local government planners and communications teams.
The main goal of the training was to equip participants with the skills to communicate effectively and promote the use of official statistics throughout the National Statistical System (NSS) for evidence-based decision-making. In short: making sure the numbers matter and that everyone understands why.
Key Highlights from the Training:
• Closing the Gap: The sessions aimed to transform raw data into compelling stories that resonate with policymakers and the public.
• Empowering Local Governments: A major focus was on providing local government planners with the tools to harness data for community development and resource allocation.
• Tackling Challenges: Discussions addressed real-world obstacles in data collection, interpretation and dissemination, encouraging collaborative problem-solving.
This initiative, strongly backed by EPRC’s expertise, is a key part of Uganda’s commitment to a data-driven future. It aligns closely with the Fourth Plan for National Statistical Development (PNSD IV), aiming to build a more transparent, accountable and effective governance system. EPRC’s involvement highlights its dedication to #Dataforpolicy. We believe that by boosting statistical literacy and advocacy skills, we are directly contributing to Uganda’s progress towards its sustainable development goals. ‘We’re not just about research; we’re about empowering those who turn research into action!’, said Elizabeth.
Looking Forward:
The success of this training opens doors for future collaborations. EPRC remains dedicated to supporting capacity-building initiatives that strengthen the NSS and promote a national culture where data is not only collected but also actively used to create a better Uganda.
Participants at a recent dialogue to promote statistical advocacy
