Data Management
The Role of Data Management at AU-IBAR
Data management is a cornerstone of AU-IBAR's strategic approach to addressing continental challenges in animal resources development. Guided by its Strategic Plan, AU-IBAR integrates data management frameworks to ensure informed decision-making, enhanced coordination, and the achievement of its mission to transform Africa’s animal resources sector.
Key Roles of Data Management
- Evidence-Based Policy Formulation
Data management supports the collection, analysis, and dissemination of reliable data to inform policy development across Member States. Through tools like the African Fisheries and Aquaculture Database (AfaData) and The African Animal Genetic Resources Information System (AAGRIS), AU-IBAR ensures policymakers have access to accurate information, fostering effective governance in animal resources. - Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)
Effective data management enables the monitoring of programs and projects, such as those on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), animal welfare, and aquatic biodiversity. By creating frameworks for reporting, AU-IBAR ensures that progress is tracked against set goals and adaptive management principles are applied where necessary. - Capacity Building
AU-IBAR emphasizes the empowerment of Member States by building capacity in data collection, analysis, and usage. Training programs for data operators in initiatives like AfaData ensure stakeholders can effectively manage and utilize data to support national and regional initiatives. - Harmonization and Integration
A unified approach to data management is critical for standardizing methods and systems across Africa. AU-IBAR facilitates the harmonization of data collection protocols, enabling seamless integration of data from diverse sources, including livestock, fisheries, and aquaculture sectors. - Enhancing Knowledge Sharing through knowledge products
Data management underpins AU-IBAR’s efforts to enhance its knowledge products. By consolidating data and insights, AU-IBAR creates knowledge products that target various stakeholders needs; such as policy briefs, information sheets, and case studies. - Promoting Regional Cooperation
Reliable data fosters collaboration between regions, facilitating initiatives like the African Platform for Regional Institutions in Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Aquatic Systems (APRIFAAS). Data sharing ensures regions can collectively address cross-border challenges and capitalize on shared opportunities. - Informing Advocacy and Awareness Campaigns
AU-IBAR uses data and evidence to drive advocacy efforts, ensuring messages are grounded in evidence. Whether raising awareness on zoonotic diseases or promoting sustainable fisheries practices, data strengthens the credibility and impact of campaigns.
Strategic Focus Areas
In alignment with its Strategic Plan, AU-IBAR prioritizes the following aspects of data management:
- Digital Transformation: Establishing and enhancing digital platforms, such as the Animal Resources Information System for data storage, analysis, and visualization.
- Partnerships: Collaborating with international and regional organizations to access and leverage data tools to solve cross-sectoral challenges, such as in One Health.
- Sustainability: Developing systems that are resilient, accessible, and aligned with Africa’s unique needs.
