Stats SA Unveils Digital Transformation Strategy to Reinvent Official Statistics

“This strategy aligns with South Africa’s Roadmap for Digital Transformation of government that aims to enhance data exchange for improved access to information and service delivery,” said Ntshavheni.

In a forward-looking move aimed at modernizing its operations and enhancing the quality and accessibility of official data, Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) has embarked on a comprehensive digital business transformation strategy that will redefine how the institution collects, analyzes, and disseminates data over the next five years.

This was revealed by Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, during her Budget Vote address to Parliament, where she highlighted the critical role of statistics in guiding governance and policymaking amid rapidly evolving global dynamics.

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A Vision Aligned with South Africa’s Digital Future

The strategy forms part of the broader South African Roadmap for the Digital Transformation of Government, which prioritizes enhanced data exchange, improved information accessibility, and technology-driven public service delivery. Stats SA’s shift toward digital platforms signals a strong alignment with this national vision.

“This strategy aligns with South Africa’s Roadmap for Digital Transformation of government that aims to enhance data exchange for improved access to information and service delivery,” said Ntshavheni.

The Minister emphasized that official statistics remain a cornerstone of evidence-based policymaking and are essential in a world characterized by rapid technological change, climate volatility, and geopolitical complexity.

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From Paper to Pixels: The Evolution Begins

Stats SA’s digital transformation journey is already underway. A key milestone was achieved through the Household Survey programme, which shifted from traditional paper-based questionnaires to Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) methods. This transition not only streamlined operations but also yielded significant cost savings and reduced turnaround times.

Building on this momentum, the institution is now preparing to reinvent its statistical products and processes through a host of new initiatives. These include:

• Researching the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to generate official statistics more efficiently.

• Introducing web-based data collection methods, particularly in economic statistics programmes, to reduce manual input and improve response rates.

• Applying data science techniques to analyze big data and leverage alternative data sources.

• Exploring cloud computing technologies to enhance data storage, processing capacity, and cybersecurity.

“The shift to digital platforms is designed to streamline survey operations, making it more efficient and user-friendly,” Ntshavheni explained.

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Budgeting for a Technological Leap

Stats SA has been allocated R2.7 billion for the 2025/26 financial year, with progressive increases over the medium term:

• R2.91 billion in 2026/27

• R3.04 billion in 2027/28

This budget supports not only day-to-day operations but also the broader technological shift envisioned in the transformation strategy. The Minister urged Parliamentarians to back the funding, arguing that robust statistical systems are indispensable in a time of accelerated global transformation.

“Statistics are the evidence base upon which sound decisions are made,” she told Parliament. “They serve as a mirror through which a nation sees itself—not just as it is, but how it is evolving.”

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Adapting to a Changing Global Landscape

The need for modern, dynamic statistical systems has never been greater. From climate change and AI breakthroughs to the rise of digital economies and shifting social structures, the global environment is undergoing rapid and profound change.

“Global fundamental shifts are reshaping every aspect of human life,” Ntshavheni said. “By accurately capturing and analyzing these trends, we can better equip ourselves to respond to the challenges and opportunities they present.”

The Minister stressed that reliable statistics are essential for building a resilient, forward-thinking nation capable of responding to uncertainty with data-driven confidence.

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Data as a Tool for Public Good

Ntshavheni reaffirmed Stats SA’s unwavering commitment to its mission of “improving lives through data economic systems.” The organization’s transformation will help ensure that statistical outputs are more timely, accurate, accessible, and relevant for government, business, academia, and civil society.

As the global demand for real-time, actionable data continues to rise, Stats SA’s strategy focuses on harnessing technology to empower citizens, improve service delivery, and guide sustainable economic development.

“Our focus is on harnessing the power of data to enhance the wellbeing of our citizens,” she concluded.

The unveiling of Stats SA’s digital transformation strategy is a critical step toward building a modern, agile national statistics office—one that is fit for the future, responsive to societal needs, and equipped to navigate the data demands of a complex, interconnected world.