In a bid to harmonize statistical programmes, the African Development Bank plans to establish an African Statistical Development Institute (ASDI).

According to a statement issued at a recent statistical conference in Kampala, the institution is meant to fill the coordination gap by facilitating the harmonization of statistical programmes across the various agencies and countries.

It will also work as a central institution and main implementing agency for statistical capacity building activities in Africa.

The Institute will be responsible for coordinating the design and implementation of policies, strategies, and guidelines outlined in the African charter on statistics as well as reference regional strategic framework (RRSF).

Professor Jose Mathai, the head of the department of Applied Statistics at the National University of Rwanda (NUR), welcomed the move saying it will significantly help to elevate African statistical systems.

"When you look at the African continent, we really need a lot of expertise for statistical capacity building in order to be at par with other continents. When you come to Rwanda as a country, I think we shall be among the beneficiaries of this institute since our statistical system is still growing,” he told The New Times.

It is also expected to enhance the current efforts of continental, regional and sub-regional organizations by providing leadership in the coordination of statistical development activities.

Ends