On December 20, 2024, the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) officially launched the 4th National Strategy for the Development of Statistics (NSDS4). Themed "Data as the Catalyst for National Transformation & Sustainable Development", this milestone marks a significant step towards enhancing Rwanda's data ecosystem for better policymaking and national progress.
The NSDS serves as a vital tool for coordinating the National Statistical System (NSS), ensuring the efficient production, dissemination, and use of official statistics to drive evidence based decisions and policy formulation.
In his opening remarks, the Director General of NISR MURENZI Ivan highlighted that the launch of NSDS4 not only signifies a forward milestone in statistical modernization but also celebrates Rwanda's remarkable achievements in statistics over the years.
"The state of statistics and information in Rwanda is in a good place. Over the past few years, we have consistently sustained the production of statistics across various sectors, including health, economic development, justice, and education. Regular statistics are now available, and we have witnessed a growing use of evidence in decision making process in Rwanda " the DG remarked.
In his keynote remarks, the Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Yusuf Murangwa, stated that "Good quality data, statistics that are timely, available, and accessible are very important because they support a country to focus on the right things."
As part of the NSDS4 launch, NISR also concluded several exciting initiatives, including an Infographic, Hackathon, and Data Journalism competition. These initiatives aimed to foster creativity and engagement within the data community, emphasizing the critical role of data in shaping Rwanda's future.
Mr. Ozonnia Ojielo, the UN Resident Coordinator in Rwanda, recognized the outstanding contributions of students and journalists, emphasizing that "Their work not only supports the objectives of NSDS but also highlights the importance of making data accessible, engaging, and impactful for everyone."
Winners of these competitions were awarded computers, symbolizing a commitment to empowering the next generation of data professionals and encouraging them to continue their innovative work.
List of winners of competitions
Infographic Competition
Winner: Prolific team from UR, College of Science and Technology,
2nd Runner-up: ByteCanvas team from IPRC Musanze,
3rd Runner-up: Elegant team from UR, College of Medicine and Health Sciences
Hackathon Competition
Winner: INGANJI Team from UR, College of Business and Economic,
2nd Runner-up: The Vanguard Team from UR, College of Business and Economic,
3rd Runner-up: Hack the future Team from UR, College of Business and Economic
Rwanda Data Journalism Awards
Online Category
Winner: NSHIMIYIMANA Jean Baptiste from igihe.com
2nd Runner-up: BYUKUSENGE Annonciata from theforefrontmagazine.com
Television Category
Winner: KWIZERA Bosco from RBA
2nd Runner-up: NIYIBIZI Didace from RBA
Radio Category
Winner: UWIZEYIMANA Christophe from Radio Salus
2nd Runner-up: BIZIMANA Désiré from Radio Ishingiro
By: NYILIJABO Martin, Editorial and Publication specialist NISR