National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) is the official government agency responsible for the collection, analysis, dissemination, and coordination of official statistics in Tanzania. It operates under the Ministry of Finance and Planning and was established by the Statistics Act No. 9 of 2015. NBS plays a central role in providing reliable, timely, and relevant statistical information that supports evidence-based decision-making, policy formulation, planning, and monitoring of national development programs.
One of the primary functions of NBS is to conduct population and housing censuses, which provide comprehensive data on population size, distribution, demographic characteristics, and living conditions. These censuses are essential for national planning, allocation of resources, electoral boundary demarcation, and the evaluation of social and economic development. In addition to censuses, NBS conducts household surveys such as the Household Budget Survey, Demographic and Health Survey, Integrated Labour Force Survey, and agricultural surveys, which generate critical socio-economic indicators.
NBS is also responsible for compiling and publishing key economic statistics. These include national accounts, Gross Domestic Product estimates, inflation rates, Consumer Price Index, trade statistics, industrial production data, and poverty indicators. Such statistics are widely used by government institutions, researchers, investors, development partners, and the private sector to assess economic performance, design policies, and make informed investment decisions. By ensuring accuracy and consistency, NBS enhances transparency and accountability in economic management.
Another important mandate of NBS is to coordinate the National Statistical System. This involves setting standards, methodologies, and guidelines for data collection and analysis across ministries, departments, agencies, and other data-producing institutions. Through this coordination role, NBS ensures harmonization, comparability, and quality of official statistics produced in the country. It also provides technical support and capacity building to statistical units within government institutions.
NBS places strong emphasis on data dissemination and accessibility. The bureau publishes statistical reports, abstracts, bulletins, and databases, and uses digital platforms to make data available to the public. This promotes informed public discourse and supports research and innovation. Additionally, NBS upholds principles of professionalism, confidentiality, and integrity, ensuring that individual data are protected and used strictly for statistical purposes.
Overall, NBS is a vital institution in Tanzania’s development framework. By producing high-quality official statistics and coordinating the national statistical system, the bureau supports effective governance, sustainable development, and informed decision-making for the benefit of the nation.