Government Prioritizes Data-Driven Decision Making in 30 Years of Freedom

To reach its developmental goals as outlined in the National Development Plan (NDP), South Africa needs to use data and statistical information to improve government performance and society at large.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni emphasized the importance of addressing South Africa's ongoing challenges with greater performance and momentum as the seventh administration begins its work and the country celebrates the next 30 Years of Freedom.

"We need to continue to support Stats SA and ensure it plays a pivotal role in providing critical socio-economic data that informs decision making across government and business broadly," Ntshavheni said.

Presenting the Stats SA Budget Vote in Cape Town on Wednesday, Ntshavheni highlighted that statistical data and information provide the government with insights into the nation's needs and achievements, aiding in the monitoring and evaluation of government policies and programs.

"Understanding and managing the data ecosystem is crucial for the country to harness the full potential of data, make informed decisions, and adapt to evolving business landscapes," Ntshavheni added.

She stressed that this will be achieved through collaboration, partnerships, and platforms, with Stats SA continuing to lead in the South African data ecosystem to close the data gap.

"Statistical data indicates that our economy is three times larger and more inclusive and diversified than it was 30 years ago. Millions of citizens have been lifted out of poverty, and employment has more than doubled. Despite this progress, millions remain unemployed, particularly the youth, who face structural unemployment due to mismatched qualifications," Ntshavheni noted.

To reach its developmental goals as outlined in the National Development Plan (NDP), South Africa needs to use data and statistical information to improve government performance and society at large.

Ntshavheni reaffirmed the government's commitment to working with all sectors to secure growth, security, and prosperity. "Stats SA is a key institutional asset in our quest for a better future. It is a jewel in the crown of the state's capacity, with its rigor and integrity globally respected."

She praised Stats SA for its productive, intergenerational mix of experience and innovation, and expressed gratitude to the millions of South Africans who provide their information and time to create a numerical picture of the nation.

Stats SA's 2024/25 Work Programme reflects a drive to deliver necessary statistics for building a better South Africa. Notably, Stats SA delivered the results of the first digital census in October 2023, offering the most comprehensive set of statistical information down to the lowest geographic level.

The Medium‐Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) for Stats SA is set at R2.65 billion for 2024/25, and R2.75 billion and R2.89 billion for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 financial years, respectively.