Government communications personnel and the media are urged to become interested in statistics and data to communicate effectively with the public.
While speaking at the launch of Africa Statistic Week organized by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics, Gilbert Kadiro, spokesperson of the National Identification Regulatory Authority (NIRA), mentioned that technocrats in different institutions must understand the value of statistics so they can plan beyond demonstrating government programs.
Kadiro adds that the public needs the statistics to plan their lives and also make proper investment decisions yet they cannot access the statistics and data. Kadiro urged the government communicators to avail the statistics to the people in a simple way they can understand and consume because they are the real consumers of the data.
He also emphasized the need for government communicators to always acquit themselves with statistics and not be challenged with statistics when asked at any time.
“Unlike the developed world, Africa is far off in terms of use of statistics to tell the story and demonstrate impact”. Kadiro remarked.
Kadiro also stressed that the media should use statistics and figures to enrich their reporting to the public. He also added that the media should do some statistical research before going for interviews so for better storytelling.
Frank Baine the spokesperson of Uganda prisons said in communication when using statistics, you can go wrong. He urged UBOS to train communications personnel on how to interpret statistics so that they can understand them and communicate effectively because the message with statistics is richer than just statements.
According to Baine, effective communication plays a significant role in managing crises by fostering control, building public trust, and steering the narrative in a way that aligns with public interests and institutional accountability.