One of the most effective tools the Internet of Things (IoT) provides to statisticians is the easy access to data and also ability to mop up data from different sources to arrive at a very reliable stand. It is in expectations of this that South Africa will be the first country in Africa to experiment with digital census this year. According to Statistics South Africa (Stats SA), a trial to the first ever digital census to be conducted in the country towards the Census 2021 Trial, has already kick started since last week and will run till the 6th of September 2020 in selected areas around the country. The project will test online and telephonic data collection to prepare for remote data collection in the upcoming Census 2021.
Census 2021 is the first population count to introduce digital census-taking through the use of online and telephonic data collection platforms, which will also allow respondents to complete the census questionnaire on their own. The telephonic data collection makes provision for respondents to participate in the census with the assistance of a Stats SA call centre agent. The increased use of cell phones and the current technology-driven digital era will minimise the challenge of reaching hard to access communities, thus allowing more people to participate in the census. Participating in the Census 2021 Trial requires respondents to register through a platform that is available on Stats SA online and social media platforms. Respondents may also contact Stats SA via our toll-free number 0800 110 248 for further assistance.
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A census provides small area data on demographics, socio-economic and living conditions of the population. It assists with forming the basis for active community participation in reviewing access to public services among other issues. Data collected through a census is used by the government and different sectors of society for policy-formulation, decision making and planning.
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Stats SA derives its mandate from the Statistics Act No. 6 of 1999 to collect data for statistical purposes and to conduct a census. The Act makes it mandatory for respondents to provide data when required. Data collected by Stats SA is only used for statistical purposes and may not be shared with the state or any organs of the state and it remains confidential. However, analysts are of the view that if this trial goes well it will usher in a new, cost effective and more efficient way of gathering data in the country which other African countries having challenges with data collection especially when it comes to census might copy.
Kelechi Deca
Kelechi Deca has over two decades of media experience, he has traveled to over 77 countries reporting on multilateral development institutions, international business, trade, travels, culture, and diplomacy. He is also a petrol head with in-depth knowledge of automobiles and the auto industry