MONROVIA –The Director General of the Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-Information Services (LISGIS), Richard Fatorma Ngafuan, has underscored the significance of reliable statistics in shaping sound economic governance in countries across the African continent.
By Obediah Johnson
Mr. Ngafuan noted that accurate data remains the foundation for effective policymaking, national planning and sustainable development in various countries.
Speaking at the 13th Steering Committee Meeting of IMF, AFRITAC West 2 held in Freetown, Sierra Leone over the weekend,
Mr. Ngafuan said governments can only make informed decisions when they have access to credible and timely data.
According to him, reliable statistics provide policymakers with the information necessary to understand economic realities, identify development challenges, allocate resources efficiently and measure national progress.
“Economic governance cannot be effective when decisions are based on assumptions rather than facts,” he stated.
Mr. Ngafuan stressed that without reliable statistics, economic governance would become a matter of guesswork rather than informed decision-making.
He observed that statistical information on inflation, employment, population growth, trade, agriculture and household welfare enables every government to formulate policies that respond to the actual needs of its citizens.
Mr. Ngafuan maintained that reliable statistics also enhance transparency and accountability by enabling citizens, investors, development partners and public institutions to assess government performance objectively.
He stated that accurate data helps build public trust and supports better monitoring and evaluation of development programs.
He emphasized that reliable statistics are far more than numbers on a page, but they are the evidence that guides policy, measures progress, identifies challenges, and informs solutions.
“Reliable statistics provide policymakers with a clear picture of the economy. They reveal trends in economic growth, unemployment, inflation, trade, investment, and public spending. Such information enables leaders to formulate policies that respond to real needs rather than assumptions,” he asserted.
He pointed out that reliable statistics are essential for attracting investment, because domestic and international investors rely on accurate economic data when making decisions.
Mr. Ngafuan intimated that countries that produce credible statistics create a more predictable business environment, encourage investments, jobs and economic growth.
“In developing economies, reliable statistics play an even more critical role. They help governments identify areas of deprivation, allocate resources fairly, and monitor progress toward national development goals. They ensure that no region, community, or vulnerable group is left behind.”
Mr. Ngafuan further stressed the need for investments in institutions to guarantee the production of quality and reliable statistics.
He said national statistical institutions must be adequately funded, staffed with skilled professionals and equipped with modern technologies.
He encouraged stakeholders, including government ministries, the private sector, civil society, academia and international partners—must collaborate in order to promote a culture of evidence-based decision-making.
“Data should not merely be collected; they must be analyzed, disseminated, and utilized effectively. Reliable statistics are not a luxury; they are a necessity for sound economic governance,” he added.
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