Senegal has developed an Inclusive Data Charter (IDC) Action Plan to ensure that everyone’s needs and experiences are represented in data, and no one is left behind.
The government has taken significant steps to align its policies with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through the Plan Sénégal Émergent (PSE).
The plan seeks to enhance accountability and inclusivity in data collection and use, by focusing on human rights and sustainability.
Senegal joined the Inclusive Data Charter in February 2021. Through collaboration between the Direction Générale de la Planification et des Politiques Économiques (DGPPE), the Agence Nationale de la Statistique et de la Démographie (ANSD), along with support from civil society organizations like Sightsavers and the Council of Non-Governmental Development Support Organizations (CONGAD) network, Senegal has now completed its IDC Action plan which will guide its work on inclusive data to the end of 2025.
Key priorities for Senegal as outlined in the IDC Action Plan
The Inclusive Data Charter Action Plan outlines specific measures to enhance reporting and monitoring of the SDGs, emphasizing inclusivity. In summary, this includes:
- Localizing the SDGs: Local authorities play a vital role in sustainable development. However, many haven't fully integrated the SDGs into their planning documents, necessitating a stronger connection.
- Strengthening data disaggregation: Existing statistics often mask sub-national-level disparities. Addressing this requires significant investment and capacity-building efforts. It also calls for exploring and utilizing alternative data sources, such as administrative data and earth observation to enhance the monitoring of the SDGs.
- Ensuring effective coordination between planning and statistical systems: The implementation of the IDC action plan will ensure that Senegal prioritizes the role of the different stakeholders in strengthening data systems in a well-coordinated manner. Civil society in particular will be a key player in supporting and championing the IDC Action Plan's implementation and promoting citizen participation and accountability.
- Financing for the IDC Action Plan: The action plan will be financed by the government and development partners, with the potential establishment of a Statistics Development Fund. Civil society will also be involved in certain activities.
- Monitoring and evaluating implementation of the action plan: Coordination and evaluation responsibilities lie with the DGPPE and ANSD at the central level. Regionally, SRP and SRS services oversee monitoring in collaboration with local authorities. Civil society plays a significant role in providing alternative reports on SDG progress.
Senegal's commitment to the Inclusive Data Charter Action Plan demonstrates a dedicated effort towards strengthening inclusive data. By addressing the key priorities identified, and with strong multi-stakeholder involvement, Senegal is on the path to making substantial progress towards leaving no one behind in their pursuit of the SDGs.
A key demonstration of this collaboration is that relevant activities in the IDC Action Plan are now being integrated into the NSDS, which ANSD is responsible for, further strengthening inclusivity in the National Statistical System in Senegal.
