UBOS, Denmark forge path to modernize Uganda’s data systems

The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) took a decisive step toward bolstering its national statistical system, when Executive Director and Chief Statistician Dr. Chris N. Mukiza welcomed a delegation from Statistics Denmark and the Danish Embassy in Uganda.

The high‑level meeting, held at UBOS headquarters, laid the groundwork for a multi‑year collaboration that will focus on capacity building, strengthening bilateral ties, and fostering public‑private partnerships—especially in the emerging field of climate‑change statistics.

The Danish team was led by Jaspa Ellemose Jensen, who presented the delegation’s vision and objectives. He was accompanied by Jacob Jepsen, Michael Skoubo, and Sarah Fortunate, each of whom contributed insights on technical assistance, data dissemination, and partnership models.

“Our goal is to reinforce Uganda’s National Statistical System, secure sustained funding, and expand the demand for evidence‑based products,” Jensen told the assembled UBOS officials. “By doing so, we can help embed a data‑driven culture in both public and private decision‑making.”

Building on earlier diplomatic talks

The delegation’s visit follows a recent encounter between the Danish Embassy and Uganda’s Ambassador to Denmark, where both sides expressed enthusiasm for a long‑term working relationship between UBOS and Statistics Denmark. Those preliminary talks cemented the political will necessary to translate ideas into concrete programmes.

During the session, the partners outlined a three‑pronged framework for the partnership: capacity building, strengthening bilateral relations and fostering public–private partnerships to enhance statistical development and production in Uganda.

A particular emphasis was placed on expanding Uganda’s statistical output portfolio, notably climate‑change metrics—a sector where data gaps have long hindered policy formulation.

Roadmap to 2035

In the days ahead, a task force led by Mr. Thomas Rutaro, Director of Methodology and Statistical Coordination Services at UBOS, will work closely with the Danish team to craft a comprehensive strategy and implementation roadmap. The document is expected to chart Uganda’s statistical development trajectory up to 2035, covering digitisation, methodological upgrades, and integration of new data domains.

Dr. Mukiza highlighted the centrality of digital transformation: “Digitising administrative records, linking births, deaths, and National Identification Numbers to our statistical systems—will be the backbone of a modern, responsive statistical architecture,” he said. “It will enable faster, more accurate data production and, ultimately, better public services.”

Expected outcomes

Both parties anticipate that the partnership will strengthen the National Statistical System by introducing advanced methodologies and quality‑assurance protocols and increase funding and political support for statistical initiatives, ensuring long‑term sustainability.

Also anticipated is to broaden the demand for data‑driven products, encouraging ministries, private firms, and civil society to incorporate evidence into planning and improve dissemination and analysis of statistical outputs, aligning them with international standards such as the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) framework.

A call for shared commitment

Dr. Mukiza urged a “combined commitment” from Uganda and Denmark to translate the ambitious agenda into tangible results: “The value of this partnership will be measured by its impact on our people—by better health outcomes, more resilient agriculture, and informed climate action. Let us work together to ensure it is productive, accountable, and enduring.”

The Danish Embassy echoed this sentiment, pledging continued diplomatic and technical support as the two institutions move forward.

The collaboration marks a significant milestone for Uganda’s statistical landscape, promising a future where data more effectively guides development, climate resilience, and economic growth.