Gaborone, Botswana — In an era where data drives progress, the ability to visualize and understand it through space and place has never been more important. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) conducted a capacity-building initiative on ArcGIS Pro, the latest and most advanced geographic information system (GIS) software as part of its broader commitment to strengthening national statistical systems and advancing data innovation for sustainable development. This support is anchored in the belief that quality, timely, and disaggregated data are essential to ensuring that no one is left behind.
Statistics Botswana has relied on ArcMap technology to produce the maps and geospatial data that guide national censuses, surveys, and development planning. Yet, as technology evolves, so too must the tools that power data for development. The legacy ArcMap system currently in use will soon be phased out globally, creating both a challenge and an opportunity: to modernize systems and skills for the future.
“This training is not just about learning new software—it’s about preparing for the future of official statistics in Botswana,” said the UNFPA Strategic Information Specialist Mr. Moses Keetile. “We are building the foundation for smarter, faster, and more reliable data that will inform national development and the next Population and Housing Census.”
Building capacity for the next generation of data systems
From 22–26 September 2025, fifteen officers from across Statistics Botswana’s GIS/Cartography, IT, Demography, Data Management and System Development teams took part in an intensive, interactive training in Gaborone, facilitated by Mr. Frankline Echerue, the Regional Strategic Information Specialist from UNFPA East & Southern Africa Regional Office. The sessions introduced staff to ArcGIS Pro, a modern platform designed to handle complex data, automate workflows, and integrate advanced analytics, including artificial intelligence and spatial statistics.
It also included a rapid assessment of Statistics Botswana’s enterprise data systems, paving the way for a future Enterprise GIS Database—a centralized system that will improve data sharing, integration, and decision-making across departments.
Laying the groundwork for the 2031 Population and Housing Census
The migration to ArcGIS Pro comes at a crucial time as Statistics Botswana begins early preparations for the 2031 Population and Housing Census. Spatial data plays a vital role in ensuring that every household, in every corner of Botswana, is counted. Upgrading to the new system will enable real-time mapping, improved field data collection, and stronger data quality assurance.
“This modern technology will help us tell the story of Botswana through data—how our people live, grow, and change,” added one of the attendants. “It will help us see development in motion.”
Modernizing for the future
Through this initiative, Statistics Botswana is positioning itself at the forefront of data modernization in Africa, ensuring that the country’s statistical systems remain relevant, efficient, and aligned with global standards.
This investment in people and technology reinforces the shared commitment of the Government of Botswana and UNFPA to strengthen the use of data for development—transforming numbers into knowledge, and knowledge into progress.
“Investing in digital tools and geospatial capacity is investing in better evidence, better planning, and ultimately, better lives,” said Mr. Keetile. “We are proud to accompany Statistics Botswana on this journey toward a more resilient and future-ready data ecosystem.”
Because when data is smart, inclusive, and timely—it becomes more than numbers. It becomes the map that leads a nation toward sustainable development.
