Windhoek: The Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) has emphasised the importance of data-driven planning, saying accurate statistics are critical for effective national development and service delivery. NSA spokesperson Ipumbu Sakaria during an information sharing session on Tuesday, said Namibia's demographic data reveals key trends that should inform policy and planning, including rapid urbanisation, high unemployment and a predominantly youthful population.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Sakaria noted that Namibia's population has shifted significantly over the years, with urban and rural populations now standing at roughly equal levels. "About 50 per cent of the population now lives in urban areas, which has implications for planning in terms of services such as schools and infrastructure," he said.

Sakaria added that unemployment remains a major concern, with the broad unemployment rate significantly higher than the strict definition of 36.9 per cent. He said understanding who is unemployed and the underlying causes is essential for developing targeted interventions. "Planning without data is like crossing a road with your eyes closed. Data allows you to plan properly and make informed decisions," he said.

The session, held under the theme 'Understanding Namibia Through Data', also highlighted disparities in population distribution across regions, noting that some areas are densely populated while others remain sparsely inhabited. Sakaria said such dynamics present challenges for development planning, particularly in ensuring equitable distribution of resources and services.

He added that NSA data, including regional profiles and geographic information systems, can assist government and local authorities in making informed decisions on infrastructure placement and budgeting. "Data helps you understand the population you are serving and allocate resources accordingly," he said.

Sakaria further encouraged the public to make use of available statistics, noting that all NSA data is accessible free of charge both online and in print. He said continued public participation in surveys and censuses is vital to ensure accurate and reliable data for national development.