ACSPR Policy & Data Lab
Shaping Africa’s Future with Evidence, Equity, and Innovation for Impact
Overview
The ACSPR Policy & Data Lab is a flagship initiative of the African Centre for Social and Population Research (ACSPR), designed to bridge the gap between research, robust data, and policy action in Africa. As a hub for innovation, the Lab serves as a dynamic platform for generating, analysing, and translating high-quality data into actionable policy insights that are necessary for addressing economic, social, and environmental challenges. Through strategic collaborations with policymakers, civil society organizations, academia, and the private sector, the Lab ensures that data driven solutions are seamlessly translated into policies that promote equitable, inclusive, and sustainable development advancing continental commitments such as Africa Agenda 2063. Our commitment to rigorous data analysis and interdisciplinary engagements position the lab as a catalyst for transformative change, empowering African communities to thrive in an increasingly complex global landscape
Through this approach, the lab not only produces and analyzes data but also amplifies the impact of data by tailoring insights to the unique needs of diverse stakeholders, ensuring alignment with global and regional development priorities. Our focus on the inclusion of marginalized communities aligns with Agenda 2063's vision of "leaving no one behind", and the SDGs' focus on reducing inequalities (SDG 10). Our team leverages analytical skills to develop innovative policy frameworks that tackle systemic challenges, enhance governance, and build resilience contributing to the continent's call for accelerated progress. The lab stands as a beacon of excellence, empowering African Nations to achieve sustainable, inclusive, and data-driven development, while reinforcing global commitments to a prosperous and equitable future.
Objectives
Generate and curate reliable, disaggregated, and context-specific data on social, population, and development issues.
Translate evidence into action by producing user-friendly policy briefs, infographics, and dashboards for decision-makers.
Strengthen data literacy among policymakers, journalists, and development practitioners.
Facilitate dialogue between researchers and policymakers to foster data-driven governance and social change.
Key Activities
Quarterly "State of Population & Social Development in Africa" Reports
Evidence-packed reports summarising trends and actionable insights.
Open Data Portal
An online platform providing free access to datasets, interactive dashboards, and policy tools.
Policy Roundtables
Regular forums bringing together key stakeholders to discuss emerging data trends and co-create policy recommendations.
Rapid Evidence Syntheses
Short, targeted briefs responding to urgent policy questions within weeks.
Capacity Building Workshops
Training sessions on data interpretation, evidence use, and impact evaluation for policymakers, CSOs, and the media.
Expected Outcomes
Increased availability and accessibility of high-quality, actionable data.
Enhanced use of evidence in policy formulation, program design, and resource allocation.
Stronger networks linking researchers, policymakers, and communities.
Greater public understanding of social and population issues through roundtables, and accessible data products.
Target Audience
Primary
- Policymakers
- Government agencies
- Legislators
- Regional bodies
Secondary
- Civil society organizations
- Development partners
- Academic institutions
- Journalists
- Grassroots/community leaders
Partnerships & Collaborations
The Lab will work in collaboration with:
National statistical offices and research institutions in the region.
Regional policy think-tanks and networks.
Universities and academic researchers.
Development partners and international agencies committed to evidence-based action.
Sustainability & Funding
The ACSPR Policy & Data Lab will pursue a blended funding approach including donor grants, commissioned research contracts, and subscription-based access to premium analytical services for private sector actors. Long-term sustainability will be achieved through strategic partnerships and embedding the Lab's outputs into regional and national policy cycles.