UBOS Staff Urged to Ensure Accurate Data for Better National Planning

What the report says

Nile Post reported that Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) employees have been urged to put accuracy and professional integrity at the centre of their work, with officials saying dependable data is essential for public planning and development. The message was delivered at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi during a passing-out ceremony for 48 UBOS staff who had completed a one-month leadership and patriotism programme.

According to the report, NALI Director Col. Okei Rukogota, who presided over the ceremony, warned that weak or inconsistent statistics can distort the design and delivery of government programmes, ultimately affecting citizens who rely on public services. He told the graduates that their role in maintaining national records carries direct importance for decision-making, and encouraged them to engage communities rather than rely only on office-based analysis.

UBOS Deputy Executive Director Dr Fred Ssennonno also addressed the staff, saying the training should translate into better service delivery at the bureau. The programme reportedly included civic education, leadership training, drills, physical conditioning, and orientation in military and self-defence tactics. Participants were awarded certificates and took oaths to uphold UBOS standards and serve with integrity.

The development matters because official statistics are used to guide government priorities, budgeting and investments in areas such as health, education and infrastructure. Nile Post framed the training as part of UBOS efforts to build staff capacity ahead of major national development programmes and initiatives, with the newly trained personnel expected to support Uganda’s data-driven planning agenda.