Kenya banks on new strategy to modernize statistical data
National
By
Daren Kosgei
| Jul 09, 2025
Kenya is now adopting a new strategy aimed at modernizing its statistical infrastructure to meet the increasing needs.
Economic Planning Principal Secretary Boniface Makokha stated that the 2025-2028 Data and Environmental Strategy aims to modernize Kenya's statistical infrastructure by leveraging advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and big data analytics.
Speaking at a Nairobi hotel during the introduction of the Second Kenya Strategy for the Development of Statistics (KSDP II) and the National Plan for Advancement of Environmental Economic Accounting, the PS said the government is committed to a strong, inclusive and forward-looking statistical system.
"Today, we reaffirm our commitment to building a robust, inclusive, and forward-looking national statistical system that not only responds to the demands of our development agenda but also underscores the needs of future generations," he said.
According to the PS, the expected outcomes include a revised Statistics Act, a national training institute, a central data hub, and wider integration of official data in policy-making.
The event also marked the rollout of Kenya's first environmental economic accounting plan, which will incorporate natural resources like forests, water, and biodiversity into national accounts.
"Kenya's economy is deeply linked to its natural capital. Integrating environmental data into economic policy is crucial for sustainable growth," said Makokha.
Acknowledging the growing complexity of Kenya's data ecosystem, the PS highlighted the ongoing challenge of underutilising alternative data sources.
"Notwithstanding the above, the underutilisation of these emerging data sources, limitations in data disaggregation, and inadequate investment in statistical infrastructure have underscored the urgency of a more transformative, agile, integrated, and demand-driven statistical system," he said.
He also announced that Kenya will host the Global Data for Development Festival in June 2026, a major international event expected to attract over 1,500 stakeholders from more than 90 countries.
"Kenya will host the third Global Data for Development Festival in June 2026," he stated, adding, "This event will be organised by the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data, in collaboration with the Government of Kenya."
The PS further argued that data is not just about measurement but about empowerment.
"It gives voice to the voiceless and visibility to the invisible. Let us ensure these strategies are not just launched but lived," he said.