Kericho:National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) from seven sub-counties in Kericho County are participating in a three-day training focused on grassroots data management, emphasizing data quality and the utilization of digital technology.
According to Kenya News Agency, the training, organized by the State Department for Economic Planning, involves over 300 officers. Mr. Chris Otieno, a consultant with the State Department for Planning, highlighted the importance of high-quality data, pointing out its role in effective planning and informed decision-making. He outlined key data attributes such as accuracy, completeness, timeliness, consistency, relevance, and accessibility.
Mr. Otieno discussed the repercussions of poor data quality, which can lead to the identification of incorrect beneficiaries, flawed plans, resource wastage, legal issues, erosion of public trust, and the failure of development programs. He guided officers through potential stages where data quality issues could occur, includi
ng design, collection, recording, transcription, aggregation, submission, and storage.
Officers were instructed on data validation techniques, which confirm that collected information is correct and consistent. Methods for detecting data errors, such as frequency distribution, outlier detection, and duplicate detection, were shared. Warning signs of fabricated data, like forms completed without household visits or identical handwriting, were also discussed.
The training further emphasized data error correction procedures, stressing the need to preserve original records, verify information, document changes, obtain authorisation, and maintain an audit trail.
Digital technology was a major focus of the training. Officers were educated on using digital gadgets, applications, and systems to enhance data management efficiency and accuracy. The session also covered digital readiness requirements in line with Kenya’s digital transformation agenda under the Kenya National Digital Master Plan 2022-2032.
Participan
ts gained hands-on experience with a data-collection application, reinforcing the role of digital technology in improving data collection, management, validation, and transmission. This training aims to boost the officers’ capacity to manage reliable grassroots data for evidence-based planning and government program implementation.
