UBOS and ICT Ministry in Dispute Over Government Data Control

The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) has strongly contested the Ministry of Information, Communication Technology (ICT) and National Guidance’s recent launch of a National Data Strategy. UBOS has declared the initiative illegal and a potential infringement upon its statutory responsibilities.

In a formal statement, UBOS articulated that the ICT Ministry lacks the legal foundation to lead initiatives concerning national statistics. The bureau firmly reiterated that its mandate, as established by the UBOS Act of 1998, exclusively covers the collection, coordination, and dissemination of all official statistics within the country. This positions UBOS as the sole legal custodian of national statistical data.

The bureau’s press release highlighted concerns that the ICT Ministry’s strategy could undermine the established framework for data governance. UBOS emphasized its critical role in ensuring the accuracy, reliability, and integrity of statistical information, which is vital for evidence-based policymaking and national development planning. The bureau fears that the perceived overreach by the ICT ministry could lead to fragmentation and potential misuse of sensitive national data.

This dispute raises important questions about institutional roles and responsibilities within the Ugandan government, particularly concerning the sensitive area of data management. The core of the disagreement lies in the interpretation of legal mandates and the appropriate bodies responsible for strategic direction in data governance. UBOS is calling for a clear delineation of powers to protect the integrity of national statistics.

For further details, refer to the Daily Monitor article: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ubos-ict-ministry-clash-over-control-of-govt-data-5640510