By Staff Reporter
In a move set to significantly influence policy-making and development strategies in Zimbabwe, UNICEF Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT) have announced the rollout of the Provincial and District Data Profiles.
Derived from a comprehensive analysis of the 2022 Population and Housing Census, these profiles are slated to be unveiled during upcoming national events.
The rollout will commence tomorrow, coinciding with Zimbabwe’s Independence celebrations, in the province of Manicaland. Following this, the spotlight will shift to Bulawayo, with the unveiling scheduled during the upcoming Zimbabwe Trade Fair next week.
Aligned with the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), the Devolution Agenda, and Vision 2030, these data profiles offer a detailed overview of demographic, social, and economic characteristics.
They provide crucial geographically disaggregated data, essential for informed decision-making by policymakers. Notably, the profiles highlight key child indicators and illustrate both spatial deprivation and progress from 2012 to 2022 through the use of maps.
During the launch event, Deputy Minister of Finance, David Mnangagwa, emphasized the importance of widely disseminating this critical data. He underscored its significance as a public resource accessible to all citizens, researchers, policymakers, and organizations, fostering transparency and collaboration in discussions that shape the nation’s future.
“The census results belong to the people,” Mnangagwa stated. “We envision a transparent dissemination process that encourages dialogue and informed discussions.”
UNICEF Representative ad interim, Dr. Nicholas Alipui, highlighted the pivotal role of these data profiles in shaping policy and programs, particularly in social sectors impacting women and children.
“The disaggregated insights enable us to pinpoint areas of greatest need,” he noted, “ensuring interventions have maximum impact.”
The unveiling of these data profiles marks a significant milestone, serving as a cornerstone for evidence-based decision-making across government ministries, local authorities, development partners, and the broader Zimbabwean population.
ZIMSTAT’s Acting Director General, Mr. Aluwisio Mukavhi, expressed optimism that the knowledge gleaned from this analysis would lead to tangible improvements in community well-being.
UNICEF and ZIMSTAT have committed to disseminating the data profiles across all ten provinces, ensuring accessibility and usability for all stakeholders.
