Ghana Statistical Service launches database

Accra, Nov. 13, GNA - The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) on Tuesday launched its database, which would serve as a one-stop-shop for the public to access Ghana's data at the comfort of their homes or offices.

The database, which can be accessed through "www.statsghana.gov.gh" and www.ghanainfo.org, make available credible source of information at the click of a button without having to travel to the GSS offices. Another database, the Integrated Management Information System (IMIS), developed by the Information Technology (IT) Division of the GSS with assistance from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), was demonstrated to the audience at the launch of the database. This could be used to measure progress or otherwise of the Ghana Poverty Reduction Strategy, Millennium Development Goals, Population Census, Agricultural Surveys and other interventions by the government. Professor Nsowah Nuamah, Deputy Government Statistician, said the database was made possible with the support from the United Nations Development Programme, United Nations Children's Fund and the UN Population Fund (UNFPA).

He said statistics were being sought increasingly by diverse groups of people who came to the GSS daily in addition to the number of institutions from within and other parts of the world.

Professor Nuamah said since the GSS was expected to provide both leadership and technical support to the other data producing agencies which formed part of the larger national statistical system, the database would help in the dissemination of the needed information. Mrs Jacqueline Anum, Database Administrator of the IT Division of GSS, said the workstations would be established in all the regions and districts where trained administrators would be available to manage it. She said this would ensure the smooth dissemination of information to these areas to enable people in every part of the country to enjoy the new facility and enhance the GSS objective of developing a statistically literate society. 13 Nov. 07