Visionary Reports

Cameroon joined the continent November 18,2025 in observing the 35th edition of African Statistics Day with a symbolic but significant ceremony in the Littoral Region. The event, held under the theme “Leveraging Innovations in Data and Statistics to Promote a Just, Peaceful, Inclusive and Prosperous Society for Africans,” brought together key stakeholders to evaluate the progress made in regional statistics gathering.However,Nicoline Ebune, representing the Littoral Governor, addressed the statistical community, commending their efforts while stressing the need for continued vigilance, especially with the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI).”On the occasion of the celebration of the 35th African Day of Statistics the emergence of new information technologies in the field of data and statistics seems essential to the more efficient implementation of sustainable development objectives,” Ms. Ebune stated.She highlighted that sound data is indispensable for crafting effective public policies and promoting a just socio-economic environment. Emphasizing the transformative impact of AI, she urged the actors to improve data structures to ensure high-quality, credible data for better governance. “

Despite these remarkable contributions, I would like to remind you that the proactive commitment of all the parties involved in data collection, both private and public, remains the crux of a safe and effective contribution to the establishment of the statistical tool.”She concluded by calling for the active participation of all stakeholders to prioritize the proper management of statistical data, making it a perfectly useful aid in the decision-making process. Ms. Ebune also acknowledged the vital support from continental partners like the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) as well as the tireless work of the National Institute of Statistics (INS).Meanwhile,Nana Christel epse Tchoua, Chief of the INS Agency of the Littoral, detailed the major innovations injected into the region’s statistical production system to modernize their information infrastructure.She underscored that the annual celebration is a crucial time for collective reflection, experience sharing, and reaffirming the commitment to high-quality statistical output, which is vital for all development stakeholders.”For this 35th edition, the focus was on innovation in data production,” Mrs. Tchoua affirmed. She highlighted innovations across three key areas: Implementing new tools like tablet and phone-based surveys to enhance data collection reliability and save time. Utilizing advanced tools, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) to accelerate data processing and analysis. Launching new platforms for data dissemination, including the INS website, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) data platform and the region’s Open Data Platform.Mrs. Tchoua emphasized that the Littoral’s Open Data Platform is a critical innovation, allowing real-time data access for the public by simply navigating to the relevant page.The event concluded with stakeholders presenting various projects designed to strengthen the role of statisticians in Cameroon’s development landscape.

By Henry Wana