Invest in data technology—UN

The United Nations has called on government to invest more in data management and technology for the country to effectively manage disasters.

UNFPA representative Young Hong said during a Malawi Data Summit held in Lilongwe yesterday to discuss the need for data systems to help mitigate and respond better to disasters and social shocks in the country.

She said data technologies are crucial in managing disasters and saving lives.

Said Hong: “What we are emphasising is effective investment in the data system that will link to different systems available within the government and within the society.

“There is need to increase the ability of decision-makers as well as the public to be able to understand and use the data for decision-making at different levels.”

She further called for investments in data literacy so that more people manage data and use it, adding citizens should demand and monitor government’s commitment by using factual scientific data.

“It is time for action and not just talk– stakeholders to focus on action that can be realised,” said Hong.

On his part, Department of Disaster Management Affairs (Dodma) commissioner Charles Kalemba said there is need for more investment in data management and technology.

He said data and technology help to know where people are trapped, what people need, where and when and for authorities to take action.

Said Kalemba: “Without that, it is difficult for authorities to properly act and make decisions that are evidence-based. In the humanitarian world, we cannot know how much food or items to take to people affected by disasters if we do not have the data from the ground.”

He stressed the need for a coordinated data platform that is able to provide factual data to decision-makers on time.

Former National Statistical Office commissioner Mercy Kanyuka told The Nation in March this year that citizens need to take an interest in data and statistics.

She said: “The media must take up the role of educating people from all spheres of life on the role of statistics and its importance. Government, the private sector and development partners should also consider more support towards statistical development to all producers and therefore, ensure that there is data needed to measure development progress in all spheres of life.”