3. Evaluation of the data collected and the methodology used

The reliability of the currently available information on wood-products could only be assessed through the various analytical methods applied in the data collection and the interpretation of results.

As earlier mentioned, two categories of data exist in the country i.e. primary and secondary. Information gathered on the wood-product from primary data sources are of higher quality and therefore more reliable than those obtained from the secondary data sources. However, this does not make information from the secondary data sources invalid. Where necessary precautionary measures are taken, as is usually the case in the Gambia, the quality of information from both sources could be very reliable. This is true for the Gambia and is possible because of the population size, limited data collection points, and their distribution. Most importantly, those institutions and individuals involved in data collection, analyses and dissemination could easily be reached. Most of them are at close proximity and they are in frequent contacts either at meetings, social gatherings or other forum. With all the above advantages, it is not uncommon to find different information on the same issue for example, the total land area of the Gambia has been questioned at different forums due to various figures given by different persons in their documents until the nation agreed on one single number.

The Gambia is making every effort to improve this situation by mandating the Agricultural and Natural Resources (ANR) working group as the validating /clearing body on all important information under its preview.

The degree of reliability of any information is time bounded. Very important information could fail to pass the test of time if released too late or too soon to be useful. This is one of the problems associated with information on wood-products especially regarding the fast growing population such as ours.

At the national level, our strength lies on the limited number of institutions; size of the population involved distribution of data centres and the excellent telephone service at out at disposal. It is very common to validate data, access data or disseminate information through telephone calls or walking direct to the source without prior permission or on short notice.

Observations of the institutions and persons involved in data collection, analyses and dissemination of information reveals weaknesses in capacity, resources, institutional arrangements, both vertical and horizontal as well as the attitude of those involved. At present in the Gambia the most common and widely used advanced technology for data collection and dissemination of information is the telephone. Majority of the institutions and persons still analysis data manually. This is because institutions are poorly equipped with modern facilities such as computers and computer programs. Even where they are available, majority of the individuals involved in data management and dissemination of information lack the operational /professional competency of handling complicated data variables. Another important factor, which is impeding output, is electricity that is never fully supplied.

Interpretation of data remains a very important factor to the quality of information. Both the quantity and quality of the staff involved is essential for they have a lot of impact on the result.

The timely collection and analysis of data and dissemination of information pose constraints on institutions and individuals due to lack of resources.

Until very recently, most data collection and analytical methods are designed by foreign experts. In majority of cases, national counterparts don’t get to know much about these and very few counterparts take part in the analysis of data or discussions of results.

Several principles of good socio-economic, developmental and management policies emerged from the use of accurate and reliable data through analysis and correct interpretation of results. Experience has shown that good data has provided practical confirmation of effectiveness of planning and development approaches as well as new insights. One important element of data use is that it makes change possible and that correct use of data is an effective reference point for change. The information from correct data sources when adequately disseminated could bring about commitment, political will and resource mobilisation to ensure that progress is possible even in problems that seemed intractable. Without use of data and dissemination of information, both vertical and horizontal approaches and targeted interventions for rapid success will be impeded. Data users at the national level are fully conscious of this and there is therefore a need for reliable data in order to obtain results. Data is widely used for forecasting forest trends and in making estimates and negotiating for planning and implementation of programmes.

Relevance of data depends on achievement of results obtained. Therefore at the national level, the most commonly used tools to disseminated information on data both vertically and horizontally is the use of both the print and electronic media. Workshops and related fora are also common stages for dissemination of information on data.

Through interpersonal contact, use of electronic facility such as telephone and computer program data are effectively disseminated (computer programs are not widely used). Use of questionnaires and distribution of publications are widely used for dissemination of data.