Malawi has taken the next step in its journey as an Inclusive Data Charter (IDC) Champion with the recent high-level event and workshop during 17-19 February, convened by the National Planning Commission and the National Statistical Office of Malawi to commence the development of its IDC action plan.
Priorities and pathways to impact
The workshop provided a valuable opportunity for stakeholders and partners to discuss priority issues and strategies for implementation. During the two and a half day engagement, national stakeholders discussed how to link up and harmonize data systems for more timely and accurate data, and opportunities for improving inclusion of data on homeless children and child-headed households across data collection, analysis, and use.
During her address, the Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare, Honourable Mary Navicha, MP, reinforced the critical role of data in improving the lives of the next generation, saying: “The well-being of our children is not only a moral obligation — it is a national development objective… Malawi’s decision to join the Inclusive Data Charter demonstrates our commitment to champion inclusive data practices and ensure that no child is overlooked.”
From one Champion to another
A representative from Kenya’s Ministry of Labour and Social Protection joined the event to share some wisdom as a veteran IDC Champion, joining the initiative in 2018. During their presentation, they provided insights on the strategies that helped to successfully strengthen disability-inclusive data within the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, and how to maintain momentum and ensure ongoing commitment for inclusive data.
Next steps
Building on the draft created during the workshop, the National Planning Commission will lead efforts to refine the plan ready for a validation workshop with national stakeholders, before it is finalized, launched, and implemented.
Stay tuned for updates.
