A Week of Intensive Training on Master Sampling Frames in Kenya Aims to Strengthen Agricultural Statistical Analysis and Policy Making

From November 6 to 10, 2023, the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Development convened in Nairobi for a critical technical assistance mission on Master Sampling Frames (MSF). This hands-on workshop, part of the Global Strategy to Improve Agricultural and Rural Statistics (GSARS II) Phase 2, was spearheaded by Soufiane Mestari. 

The GSARS II initiative, endorsed by the United Nations Statistical Commission (UNSC), is a testament to global efforts to bolster agricultural statistical systems in developing countries. With a focus on capacity-building and sustainable development, GSARS II tackles the decline in agricultural statistical capabilities, offering a comprehensive framework to boost the generation and application of essential data. 

The workshop's objective was clear: to impart practical knowledge and skills in sampling design, weighting, and estimation procedures to improve the quality of agricultural statistics. Ten registered participants from various statistical divisions engaged in a full schedule of sessions covering fundamental concepts and advanced sampling techniques. 

Amid theoretical discussions, participants actively engaged in practical exercises utilizing various statistical tools, with all participants installing and utilizing the software to complete tasks.  

The interest and interaction during both theoretical and practical sessions were high. Attendees came from relevant departments, such as sampling units, crop statistics, livestock statistics, and fisheries statistics, ensuring the training's objectives resonated with their professional roles. The diverse software experience among the participants added depth to the practical exercises, which were successfully performed by all, thanks to the availability of needed technologies, such as laptops. 

The workshop was conducted in English and concluded with positive feedback from the participants. The recommendations for future activities include allocating more time for training and organizing follow-up sessions for a deeper understanding. 

As GSARS II continues to lead the advancement of capacities in agricultural and rural statistics, the synergy between dedicated organizational support and financial patronage shines as a beacon of collective progress. The FAO Kenya Office, alongside our esteemed donors, The European Union and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, has set a precedent for what can be achieved through partnership and shared goals. The workshop in Kenya is just one of the many strides being made under the program, highlighting the tangible benefits of international cooperation in enhancing data-driven policymaking.