Manama: The Information and eGovernment Authority (iGA) marked World Statistics Day, celebrated every five years on October 20th. Held this year under the theme "Quality Statistics and Data for Everyone", the occasion highlights the role of reliable, high-quality statistics in supporting sustainable development and informed decision-making, while emphasising the importance of trustworthy data, innovation in national systems, and the delivery of accurate, timely indicators to measure progress across various sectors.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the celebration strengthens collaboration among national, regional, and international statistical organisations, while fostering the exchange of expertise and best practices to promote transparency and accountability. It also highlights the key role of national statistical systems in policy development, performance monitoring, and tackling emerging challenges, while showcasing innovative data collection and analysis methods that support informed decision-making.
Mohammed Ali Al Qaed, Chief Executive of the iGA, commended Bahrain's leadership for their support of the statistical sector, emphasising that it reflects their deep belief in the power of accurate data to shape effective policies, enable informed decision-making, and drive sustainable development. Al Qaed congratulated professionals in the statistical and data community on their ongoing efforts to provide accurate, reliable information that supports decision-makers and the public. He commended the government's commitment to this vital sector, noting its key role in shaping policies, guiding decisions, and strengthening national capacities to ensure data quality and credibility.
Al Qaed said that accurate, reliable statistics are essential for informed decision-making. He noted that the iGA continues to enhance national statistical systems using advanced technologies and methodologies to provide high-quality data for decision-makers and citizens. He added that World Statistics Day highlights the role of data in driving sustainable development, enhancing innovation in data collection, and leveraging technology to improve quality and respond to challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Chief Executive noted that Bahrain's long-standing leadership in statistics began in 1941 with the region's first census and continued through its 11th national census in 2020. He highlighted the importance of regional and international cooperation, noting that the iGA works closely with the GCC Statistical Centre and other Arab, regional, and international organisations to exchange expertise and align standards and best practices. He added that the iGA's participation at global events, including the UN Statistical Commission, and its partnerships with national bodies such as Saudi Arabia's General Authority for Statistics through memoranda of understanding, help develop accurate, unified indicators. These efforts enhance transparency, demonstrate Bahrain's progress in using data and technology to improve services, and reaffirm its leadership in supporting sustainable development.
The iGA carries out numerous surveys to provide comprehensive, accurate data that supports national planning and decision-making. These include the National Health, Education, Economic Establishments, Household Income and Expenditure, Tourism, and Industrial Products surveys, among others. The resulting datasets offer key indicators across economic, social, and health sectors, enabling government entities and the public to make informed, evidence-based decisions. The iGA also provides comprehensive, up-to-date open government data through the Bahrain Open Data Portal, enabling users to freely access, download, and analyse datasets to promote transparency and support data-driven decision-making.
World Statistics Day is celebrated every five years, with participation from over 130 countries, to strengthen statistical capacity, foster innovation in data collection, advance the use of technology to enhance data quality, and support effective responses to global challenges.