The Bureau of Statistics (BOS) and the Equitable Lesotho: Strengthening Statistical Systems Project have held an awareness workshop for local journalists to introduce a proposed new Statistical Bill aimed at reforming the country’s National Statistical System (NSS).
The workshop positioned the media as an important partner in communicating official data to the public and building trust in national statistics.
The proposed legislation seeks to give the BOS greater operational independence, allowing it to set its own priorities and define clearer roles for other government institutions. It also aims to improve data security, introduce modern IT systems, and strengthen confidentiality protections to encourage public participation in data collection.
The initiative is supported by a €1.8 million grant from the European Union over 36 months. Speaking at the workshop, Marcella Veneziani, Programme Manager for the EU Delegation, said quality statistics form the foundation for sound policymaking, transparency, accountability, and public trust.
The project is implemented by Expertise France in partnership with France’s national statistics institute (INSEE) and Lesotho’s Ministry of Finance and Development Planning. It focuses on producing better and more inclusive data, particularly on women, youth, and vulnerable groups.
Philippe Gafishi, Deputy Head of PARIS21, noted that the new bill will support journalists by guaranteeing access to data and establishing predictable release calendars for key economic and social indicators.
Workshop participants were also reminded of the media’s responsibility to report statistics accurately. Organisers warned that misinterpreting data or publishing unverified figures can spread misinformation and erode public confidence. They emphasised the need to provide proper context when covering topics such as health, unemployment, inflation, and budget outcomes.
The BOS and project partners hope the engagement with journalists will help ordinary citizens better understand official data and hold government accountable.
Summary
- Strengthening Statistical Systems Project have held an awareness workshop for local journalists to introduce a proposed new Statistical Bill aimed at reforming the country’s National Statistical System (NSS).
- The workshop positioned the media as an important partner in communicating official data to the public and building trust in national statistics.
- Speaking at the workshop, Marcella Veneziani, Programme Manager for the EU Delegation, said quality statistics form the foundation for sound policymaking, transparency, accountability, and public trust.
Ntsoaki Motaung is an award-winning health journalist from Lesotho, specializing in community health stories with a focus on sexual and reproductive health and rights, as well as HIV. She has contributed to platforms like “Be in the KNOW,” highlighting issues such as the exclusion of people with disabilities from HIV prevention efforts in Lesotho.
In addition to her journalism, Ntsoaki serves as the Country Coordinator for the Regional Media Action Plan Support Network (REMAPSEN). She is also a 2023 CPHIA Journalism Fellow.
