NISR Data Modernization – Technical Assistance to Rwanda

Overview

The NISR Data Modernization Project supports the Government of Rwanda in strengthening its statistical system and improving data-driven decision-making. Implemented under the EU Framework Contract RSA 2023 – Lot 1, the initiative provides technical assistance to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) to modernize data production, analysis, and dissemination.

The project aligns with Rwanda's Vision 2050 and the National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), as well as the European Union's Multiannual Indicative Programme (2021–2027), which prioritizes digital transformation, governance, and sustainable development through evidence-based policy.

Client: National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR) & European Union (EU Framework Contract RSA 2023 – Lot 1)
Implementation Partner: NTU International, SquareX ApS
Alignment: Rwanda Vision 2050, NST2, EU Multiannual Indicative Programme (2021–2027)

Objective

The overall objective is to contribute to the modernization of statistics production in Rwanda and improve the uptake of data supply across the National Statistical System (NSS).

Specific objectives include:

• Expanding the data supply and enhancing capacity in research methodology and sampling
• Building expertise in data engineering and the use of mobile phone data for tourism and mobility statistics
• Institutionalizing Natural Capital Accounting (NCA) across the NSS
• Enhancing data communication and visualization for better policy use

Key Components

1. Capacity Building in Research and Sampling

Training programmes improve NISR's ability to design and implement household and establishment surveys aligned with national labour and employment priorities.

• Advanced training on sampling techniques, qualitative and quantitative research, and mixed-methods approaches
• Workshops covering data analysis, survey design, and statistical modelling using R, Python, and SPSS

2. Data Engineering and Mobile Phone Data

Building expertise in leveraging non-traditional data sources for official statistics.

• Training on big data processing and mobile phone data analytics
• Application of mobile data for tourism statistics and mobility patterns
• Development of data pipelines and ETL processes for integrating alternative data sources

3. Natural Capital Accounting (NCA)

Institutionalizing environmental-economic accounting frameworks across Rwanda's National Statistical System.

• Implementation of SEEA (System of Environmental-Economic Accounting) standards
• Training on ecosystem accounting, water accounts, and energy statistics
• Integration of NCA into national reporting and policy frameworks

4. Data Communication and Visualization

Enhancing the presentation and accessibility of statistical information for policymakers and the public.

• Training on data storytelling and visual analytics
• Development of interactive dashboards and infographics
• Use of tools like Tableau, Power BI, and R Shiny
• Improved dissemination strategies for wider data accessibility

Impact

• Strengthened capacity of NISR in modern statistical production methodologies
• Enhanced use of innovative data sources (mobile phone data) for official statistics
• Institutionalized environmental-economic accounting aligned with international standards
• Improved data visualization and communication for evidence-based policymaking
• Contributed to Rwanda's Vision 2050 and National Strategy for Transformation goals
• Supported EU development cooperation objectives in governance and sustainable development

The project represents a significant advancement in Rwanda's statistical capabilities, enabling the country to leverage modern data science techniques and international best practices for sustainable development and informed policy decisions.