Recent research has uncovered a cultural secrecy that is preventing African countries from leveraging the power of data to drive evidence-based decision making. The study, conducted by researchers at the African Leadership University, found that African countries lack the infrastructure, capacity, and culture needed to effectively use data for decision making. The researchers discovered that many African countries lack the necessary legal and institutional frameworks to ensure that data is collected, managed, and used in an ethical and transparent manner. Additionally, a culture of secrecy has developed around data, preventing governments and citizens from having access to the information they need to make informed decisions. This culture of secrecy is only exacerbated by data gathering practices that are often based on outdated and inaccurate information. The findings of this study suggest that African countries must strive to create an enabling environment where data can be used to drive evidence-based decision-making and progress.

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source: Phys.org