UBOS, Tooro Kingdom sign partnership to strengthen data collection and planning

The Uganda Bureau of Statistics and Tooro Kingdom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening statistical development and improving data-driven planning within the Kingdom.

The partnership will support the establishment of a Statistical Unit within Tooro Kingdom to enhance the harmonization of concepts, definitions, and methodologies used in the collection, compilation, and dissemination of statistical information.

Under the agreement, the two institutions will also coordinate data collection activities to avoid duplication of efforts while strengthening networking, data sharing, and the exchange of statistical information among suppliers, producers, and users of statistics within the Kingdom and the Bureau.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Dr. Chris N. Mukiza said the collaboration aligns with the implementation of the Plan for National Statistical Development, which supports Uganda’s national development and policy agenda.

“The Plan for National Statistical Development is a framework for strengthening the statistical capacity of the National Statistical System to support Uganda’s results-based development and policy agenda,” Dr. Mukiza said.

He noted that the signing of the MoU demonstrates UBOS’ commitment to coordinating the National Statistical System to ensure harmonized statistical production and efficient utilization of resources.

Dr. Mukiza further pledged that the Bureau would equip Tooro Kingdom with the necessary technical capacity and equipment to operationalize the Statistical Unit effectively.

As part of efforts to improve data accessibility and utilization, he tasked UBOS staff to generate a statistical abstract for Tooro Kingdom using available data sources, particularly findings from the recently concluded National Population and Housing Census 2024 and the upcoming Baseline Education Census 2025 results expected later this month.

The Prime Minister (Omuhikirwa) of Tooro Kingdom, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, welcomed the partnership, describing it as a major step toward strengthening evidence-based planning and decision-making across the Kingdom’s nine counties.

“For us to plan effectively, prioritize correctly, and serve our people better, we must rely on accurate data and credible research to make informed decisions. Definitely, you cannot manage what you cannot measure,” he said.

Rwomiire noted that the partnership comes at a critical time as Tooro Kingdom advances its development agenda in sectors such as health, education, youth empowerment, tourism, culture, and economic transformation.

Accompanied by Joan Kantu, the Prime Minister thanked UBOS for the collaboration and expressed confidence that the partnership would strengthen engagement, improve planning, and support development initiatives for the benefit of the people of Tooro Kingdom.