Existing datasets and data gaps

There are substantive data holdings in the differ- ent

institutions. However, there are also data gaps.

Although the questionnaire specifically required in- stitutions to indicate the datasets held by the institu- tions, many did not fill in this section. Therefore the evaluation of data gaps has been obtained from an analysis of the available literature (REMA 2009, GOR 2007). Some of the data gaps are indicated in Table 1 and they follow the data classification indicated below.

Table 1: An indication of data gaps Data class

Species/genes Physical features Land use

Social/economic/ political

General comment

Data gap The knowledge base of the national biodiversity stock could be improved

Data on transport emissions and resultant pollution effects is virtually absent except for a national inventory on greenhouse gas emissions carried out under the UNFCCC in 2002. Data on ground water and aquifers is incomplete.

Information on the renewable energy alternatives and technology is limited. Information on the petroleum sector is scanty.

Data on waste generation, source of waste and quantities disposed of is absent. Some elements of health data for example maternal mortality rate are missing. This is because the earliest Demographical Health Survey (DHS) was conducted in 1992. There is a lack of baseline data with regard to youth including the role they play, number of support groups and institutions for sport, youth and culture, the priorities of youths, the range and effectiveness of current support systems and the degree of youth participation or the effectiveness of the role they play.

Data for the different thematic or programme areas disaggregated by gender and other vulnerable/ disadvantaged groups

Source: REMA 2009, GOR 2007

Many of these data gaps have been identified in key government development strategies and measures are underway to address them. For instance, with re- gards to the meteorology sector, the aim is to provide a wide range of timely, high quality weather and cli- mate information. Some of the initiatives include the development and implementation of a sound policy and strategy that supports a major rehabilitation of

existing terrestrial weather stations; introduces efficient telecom- munications systems; modernizes data processing and forecasting systems; ensures the timely acquisition of real time weather and remotely sensed data through investment in a long-range radar system supported by trained staff; implements the installation of a Satellite Data Distribution System (SADIS); and improves the dis- semination and application of weather forecasts and other meteoro- logical information (GOR 2007).

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