Data and Development.

 

Image credit: the internet.

DATA! Its all around us, everywhere, and even within us. Humans have survived thousands of years because of data. By constantly processing information of our surroundings and improving the outcome based on real-time data we have evolved to become the superior species on the planet. Since the dawn of time great achievement were made possible through the collection of data, its analysis and use. Its what led Galileo to prove that the Earth is not flat, Sir Isaac Newton to discover gravity, Beethoven to write those symphonies and so on. Data has been crucial for development and we have achieved so much that we now know what's beyond our galaxy. But we have done that far too much for our own good. The mismanagement of data has resulted in global challenges such as environmental and biodiversity loss and climate change, conflicts in different parts of the world, inequalities and social issues. It is only a few years now that Artificial intelligence (AI) has been introduced into the mainstream and already it is changing how we get things done. We have seen how much effects data has on the world in the hands of corporates. 'Big data' as they so term it, has been collected and used by big tech companies such as Meta to influence people's decisions through selling that data to firms who use it to target people to buy their products or services based on statistics. It has already being demonstrated already that some entities use data for malicious reasons through spreading disinformation. 

It is crucial that all people and leaders consider how we are using data as it is a necessary step needed to get closer to any meaningful achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The United Nations, realising the importance of governance of data in 2017 at the first World Data Forum passed the Cape Town Global Action Plan, an important tool to help governments, civil society and private sector make infomed decisions in regards to data. You can read the whole document on the following link: https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/hlg/cape-town-global-action-plan/

So what is it that we need to do?

We need to be proactive in data collection, management, use and re-use. Our voice matters. We simply cannot let corporates and governments be the sore users of data and determine what future is in store for the world. Every individual must contribute to how data is to be used to shape development in our communities. 

We need to promote good data practices. We have been victimised with disinformation and we have also played part in its spread. By being acquainted with authentic data sources we may be able to interact better with data.

So what do you think about data? Looking foward to your comments. Or you can reach me through the contact details on this blog.