Citizens and experts gathered in Tobago today, 15th October, for Caribbean Statistics Day 2026 to discuss how modern data and official statistics can support a smarter Tobago.
Featured speaker Joanna Kazana, UN Resident Coordinator in Trinidad and Tobago, reminded participants that “Behind every statistic is a human story.” She shared examples of a fisherman concerned about changing coastal conditions, an elderly woman facing accessibility challenges, and a migrant unsure whether they would be included in the national census. Their experiences, she said, challenge us to consider whose stories may be missing from official statistics.
Strategic Planning and Development Secretary Trevor James underscored how reliable, timely and accessible data can strengthen governance, guide planning and improve lives:
“A smarter Tobago is a Tobago that knows itself. A Tobago that sees itself clearly, measures its progress honestly, and transforms knowledge into better decisions, greater opportunities and improved lives for its people.”
Day two continues tomorrow with practical discussions on modernising statistical systems, strengthening data governance and using data in decision-making.
Reliable statistics help us understand people’s needs, measure progress and plan for Tobago’s future.
