UBOS, ICT ministry clash over control of govt data
The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) has challenged the Ministry of ICT's new National Data Strategy, claiming it infringes on their statutory mandate. UBOS argues that the ministry lacks the legal authority to oversee national statistical collection and coordination.
Why it matters
This institutional clash highlights a conflict over data governance and regulatory authority within the Ugandan government.
Officials pose for a photo during the launch of the National Communication Policy 2026 in Kampala on October 13, 2026. PHOTO BY UGANDA MEDIA CENTRE
The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) has lashed out at the Ministry of Information, Communication Technology and National Guidance over the launch of a National Data Strategy, describing the initiative as illegal and a threat to its statutory mandate.
UBOS, in a press statement on Wednesday, argues that the ministry has no legal authority to spearhead matters relating to national statistics, insisting that the responsibility to collect, coordinate and disseminate official statistics is vested in the bureau under the UBOS Act, 1998.
The dispute follows the ministry’s launch of the National Data Strategy on Tuesday, an initiative intended to enable government institutions to securely share information, reduce duplication and improve decision-making and public service delivery.
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