Accra: Mr. Abu K. Kasangbata, a former Deputy Upper West Regional Minister, has urged the repositioning of the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) as a pivotal force in national development. He emphasized the critical role of accurate and timely data in shaping policies and interventions that drive meaningful progress.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Kasangbata highlighted the necessity for Ghana to adopt a data-driven model for sustainable development and inclusive growth. He noted that the GSS, often undervalued, provides essential economic indicators like inflation rates, GDP, and the Consumer Price Index (CPI), but its contributions extend beyond these metrics. The GSS offers data crucial for planning, monitoring, and evaluating programs across various sectors, including education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, and employment, thereby directly affecting the lives of ordinary Ghanaians.
Mr. Kasangbata stressed the importance of viewing the GSS not merely as a technical agency but as a strategic partner in national development. He made an appeal to the government to prioritize the GSS by equipping it with the necessary resources, tools, and autonomy to function effectively. This empowerment would ensure that development policies are evidence-based and aligned with the genuine needs of the populace.
He further stated that under the administration led by President John Dramani Mahama, the GSS should be positioned alongside the National Development Planning Commission (NDPC) as a key component of the national transformation agenda. The GSS's role in data collection, monitoring, and evaluation is deemed crucial, particularly for implementing flagship programs like the 24-hour economy, allowing for accurate assessment of progress and strategic realignment.
Mr. Kasangbata concluded that empowering the GSS would enable Ghana to avoid wasteful spending, better target investments, and enhance transparency and accountability. He advocated for treating the GSS as a cornerstone of national development and emphasized the urgency of building Ghana on a foundation of reliable data.