By Alex Wekesa
The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics is seeking greater institutional independence through the proposed Statistics Bill, 2026, a new law that aims to transform the agency into the Kenya Statistics Authority in a move expected to strengthen the country’s data collection, analysis and management systems.
The proposed legislation was discussed during a public participation forum held at Kibabii University in Bungoma County, where KNBS officials outlined key reforms aimed at improving the production and dissemination of official government statistics.
Speaking during the forum, KNBS Legal Services officer Linda Olweny said the proposed law is intended to modernize the country’s statistical framework and align it with changing governance, technological and economic demands.
She noted that reliable statistics remain critical in supporting effective planning, policy formulation and equitable distribution of national resources.
Olweny explained that one of the major proposals contained in the Bill is the transformation of KNBS into the Kenya Statistics Authority, a move that would grant the institution greater administrative and financial autonomy.
According to her, the proposed Authority would operate independently in the production and release of official statistics without undue influence or interference.
She said the reforms are aimed at strengthening the integrity, professionalism and credibility of official government data, especially at a time when statistics continue to play a central role in national development planning and monitoring.
“The intention is to strengthen the integrity and credibility of official statistics in the country by ensuring the institution operates independently,” said Olweny.
The Bill also proposes the establishment of County Statistics offices in all the 47 counties in an effort to decentralize statistical services and bring data management closer to the people.
The county offices would be responsible for collecting, analyzing and managing statistical information at the grassroots level.
According to KNBS officials, the move will help county governments access accurate, timely and reliable data necessary for budgeting, planning and implementation of development projects.
County governments have increasingly relied on statistical information in areas such as healthcare, agriculture, education, infrastructure and social protection programs
