Story by Stanley James
ZIMBABWE’S drive to deliver the National Development Strategy Two (NDS2) has received a major boost, with stakeholders reaffirming the central role of accurate and timely economic statistics in guiding policy formulation, monitoring progress and driving inclusive economic growth.
Government ministries, departments and agencies, private sector representatives and development partners convened in Harare on Wednesday to assess how statistical systems can better support the implementation of the country’s economic blueprint.
The meeting underscored the importance of reliable data in measuring development outcomes, identifying emerging challenges and informing policy interventions aimed at accelerating economic transformation.
Director of Statistical Services at ZIMSTAT, Mrs Fadzayi Ndlovu, said the agency is reviewing its operational processes to enhance the production and timely dissemination of statistics needed for evidence-based decision-making.
“We are currently evaluating the way we conduct our business in terms of compiling statistics. Our key priority is to establish a workable framework for assessing the implementation of measures under NDS2. As an agency, we are committed to ensuring that data is released on time because statistics influence the measures taken to stimulate growth. The focus is on providing timely information to enable stakeholders to make informed decisions that will shape the future direction of this blueprint,” she said.
Stakeholders noted that the timely release of economic statistics is critical to tracking national development outcomes and identifying areas requiring policy attention.
Head of the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office, Mr Ernest Mutanga, said statistics remain indispensable in measuring economic performance and guiding development planning.
“NDS2 must be effectively implemented, and statistics play a vital role in enabling the Government to assess overall economic performance, identify challenges and plan for the future. We hope these discussions will create a platform for determining the course of the socio-economic development agenda while generating insights into what can be done to advance the economy. Our focus is on mobilising the necessary funding and strengthening capacity, both of which are essential for unlocking further growth opportunities. NDS2 is fundamentally about inclusive development, which remains the cornerstone of sustainable economic growth,” he said.
As Zimbabwe advances implementation of NDS2, stakeholders say strengthening the national statistical system will be critical to ensuring policies remain responsive, measurable and aligned with the country’s broader development aspirations.
Economic statistics remain a key pillar of NDS2, providing the evidence base required to monitor progress, guide investment decisions and support sustainable and inclusive national development.
