By Ben Musanje
The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) has taken a major step toward the implementation of the 9th Uganda National Household Survey (UNHS) 2026/27 with the official commissioning of 80 trained field data collectors.
The commissioning follows the successful completion of a 15-day intensive training programme designed to equip the field personnel with the skills and knowledge required to conduct accurate, reliable, and ethical household data collection across the country.
The newly commissioned data collectors have been organized into 16 field teams, each headed by a Field Supervisor. To strengthen communication and improve the quality of information gathered, UBOS strategically constituted the teams based on language proficiency, enabling interviewers to effectively engage with respondents in different communities and regions.
The 9th UNHS data collection exercise is scheduled to run for 12 months, providing sufficient time for comprehensive coverage of sampled households and communities throughout Uganda.
Upholding Professionalism and Data Confidentiality
While commissioning the field teams, UBOS Executive Director Dr. Chris N. Mukiza urged the data collectors to uphold the highest levels of professionalism, integrity, and commitment to ethical standards throughout the survey period.
Dr. Mukiza reminded the field personnel of the importance of the Oath of Secrecy and Oath of Office they had taken, emphasizing that protecting respondents’ information is a fundamental responsibility.
“You must ensure that the information you collect remains confidential. Do not disclose sources of data,” Dr. Mukiza stated, highlighting the protections provided under the Uganda Bureau of Statistics Act, 1998, which safeguards data confidentiality and promotes statistical independence.
He further challenged the data collectors to ensure accuracy by recording information exactly as provided by respondents.
“Record the information as it is given. Do not change anything. The data you collect is critical for planners and policymakers in improving the lives of Ugandans,” he emphasized.
Accurate Data Collection for Better Decisions
Dr. Mukiza cautioned the field teams against misconduct, negligence, and poor performance, noting that failure to meet the required standards could lead to dismissal and exclusion from future survey assignments.
He stressed that the credibility of Uganda’s official statistics depends largely on the quality and integrity of the data collection process.
“Reliable statistics begin with credible data collection,” he noted, encouraging the teams to approach their work with diligence and responsibility.
Generating Evidence for National Development
The Uganda National Household Survey is one of the country’s most important statistical programmes, providing essential information on key socio-economic indicators such as education, health, housing conditions, household welfare, and food security.
The findings from the survey support poverty assessment, monitoring of socio-economic trends, evaluation of development programmes, and evidence-based decision-making by government, development partners, researchers, and other stakeholders.
The 9th Round of the UNHS will build on previous survey rounds, including the 8th Round report released by UBOS in May 2025. The latest survey is expected to provide updated and reliable data to guide policy formulation, development planning, monitoring and evaluation, and public discussions on Uganda’s socio-economic progress.
As Uganda continues to pursue inclusive development, the role of accurate and timely statistics remains critical. The successful completion of the 9th UNHS will depend on the commitment of the commissioned field teams and the cooperation of households across the country. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
