open data policy draft
TRANSCRIPT
i
TABLE OF CONTENT
TABLE OF CONTENT...................................................................................................... i
ABBREVIATIONS......................................................................................................... iv
DEFINITON OF KEY TERMS/GLOSSARY ......................................................................... v
FOREWORD - CONSULTATION ON SUBMISSION MINISTRY ......................................... vi
CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION .................................................................................... 1
1.1 Historical Background ...................................................................................................1
1.2 Situation Analysis .........................................................................................................3
1.2.1 Leadership .................................................................................................................. 3
1.2.2 National Technology and Skills Infrastructure .......................................................... 4
1.2.3 Government Data ...................................................................................................... 5
1.2.4 Demand For Data And Engagement With User Communities .................................. 5
1.2.5 Institutional Framework ............................................................................................ 6
1.2.6 Financing ................................................................................................................... 6
1.2.7 Policy and Legal Framework ...................................................................................... 7
1.3 Challenges ....................................................................................................................8
CHAPTER TWO ............................................................................................................ 8
RATIONALE, VISION, MISSION ANDOBJECTIVES OF THE POLICY ................................... 8
2.1 Rationale of the Policy ................................................................................................9
2.2 Vision and Mission of the Policy ...................................................................................9
2.2.1 Vision ............................................................................................................................. 9
2.2.2 Mission ........................................................................................................................... 9
2.3 Objective of the Policy ............................................................................................... 10
2.3.1 General Objective ........................................................................................................ 10
2.3.2 Specific Objectives ....................................................................................................... 10
CHAPTER THREE ........................................................................................................ 11
POLICY ISSUES AND POLICY STATEMENTS.................................................................. 11
3.1 Public Institutions Capacity in Managing Open Data .................................................... 11
3.1.1 Policy Issue ................................................................................................................... 11
3.1.2 Policy Objective ........................................................................................................... 11
3.1.3 Policy Statements ........................................................................................................ 11
3.2 Access, Use and Re-Use of Government Data .............................................................. 11
3.2.1 Policy Issue ................................................................................................................... 11
3.2.2 Policy Objective ........................................................................................................... 11
3.2.3 Policy Statements ........................................................................................................ 12
3.3 Open Data By Default ................................................................................................ 12
3.3.1 Policy Issue ....................................................................................................................... 12
ii
3.3.2 Policy Objective .......................................................................................................... 12
3.3.3 Policy Statements ........................................................................................................ 12
3.4 Quality of Government Data ....................................................................................... 12
3.4.1 Policy Issue: .................................................................................................................. 12
3.4.2 Policy Objective ........................................................................................................... 12
3.4.3 Policy Statements ........................................................................................................ 12
3.5. Institutional Framework ............................................................................................ 13
3.5.1 Policy Issue: .................................................................................................................. 13
3.5.2 Policy Objective ........................................................................................................... 13
3.5.3 Policy Statements ........................................................................................................ 13
3.6 Policy and Legal Framework........................................................................................ 13
3.6.1 Policy Issue: .................................................................................................................. 13
3.6.2 Policy Objective ........................................................................................................... 14
3.6.3 Policy Statements ........................................................................................................ 14
3.7 Financing ................................................................................................................... 14
3.7.1 Policy Issue: .................................................................................................................. 14
3.7.2 Policy Objective .......................................................................................................... 14
3.7.3 Policy Statements ........................................................................................................ 14
3.8 National Technology and Skills Infrastructure .............................................................. 14
3.8.1 Policy Issue: .................................................................................................................. 14
3.8.2 Policy Objective ........................................................................................................... 15
3.8.3 Policy Statements ........................................................................................................ 15
3.9 Crosscutting Policy Issues ........................................................................................... 15
3.9.1 Public Private Partnership (Ppp) .................................................................................. 15
3.9.1.1 Policy Issue ................................................................................................................ 15
3.9.1.2 Policy Objective ........................................................................................................ 16
3.9.1.3 Policy Statement ....................................................................................................... 16
3.10 Decentralisation By Devolution (D By D) ...................................................................... 16
3.10.1 Policy Issue ................................................................................................................. 16
3.10.2 Policy Objective ......................................................................................................... 16
3.10.3 Policy Statement ........................................................................................................ 16
CHAPTER FOUR ......................................................................................................... 17
LEGAL FRAMEWORK ................................................................................................. 17
CHAPTER FIVE ........................................................................................................... 18
INSTITUTIONAL, MONITORING AND EVALUATION FRAMEWORK ............................... 18
5.1 Institutional Framework ............................................................................................. 18
5.1.1 Ministry Responsible for Government Open Data ...................................................... 18
5.1.2 National Bureau for Statistics (NBS) ............................................................................ 18
5.1.3 Records And Archives Management Department ....................................................... 18
5.1.4 e-Government Agency; ................................................................................................ 18
iii
5.1.5 Tanzania Information Services (MAELEZO); ................................................................ 19
5.1.6 Public Institutions ........................................................................................................ 19
5.2 Policy Monitoring and Evaluation Framework ............................................................. 19
5.2.1 Monitoring ................................................................................................................... 19
5.2.2 Evaluation .................................................................................................................... 19
iv
ABBREVIATIONS
D-by-D - Decentralization by Devolution
eGA - e-Government Agency
GCU - Government Communication Unit
GIS - Geographical Information System
ICT - Information, Communication and Technology
LGAs - Local Government Authorities
LGRP - Local Government Reform Program
LSRP - Legal Sector Reform Program
MDAs - Ministries, Departments and Agencies
NACSAP - National Anti-corruption Strategy and Action Plan
NBS - National Bureau of Statistics
NECTA - National Examination Council of Tanzania
NFGG - National Framework for Good Governance
NIDA - National Identity Authority
ODRA - Open Data Readiness Assessment
OGP - Open Government Partnership
PFMRP - Public Financial Management Reform Program
PPP - Public Private Partnership
PSRP - Public Service Reform Program
RITA - Registration, Insolvency and Trustsheep Agency
TCRA - Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority
TRA - Tanzania Revenue Authority
TSED - Tanzania Socio-Economic Database
PESTEL - Political, Economical, Social, Technological and
Legal Framework
v
DEFINITON OF KEY TERMS/GLOSSARY
TERM DEFINITION
Data The representation of facts, concepts or instructions in a formalised (consistent
and agreed) manner suitable for communication, interpretation or processing
by human or automatic means.
Unprocessed atomic statements of fact. It very often refers to systematic
collections of numerical information in tables of numbers such as spreadsheets
or databases.
The quantities, characters, or symbols on which operations are performed by
a computer, which may be stored and transmitted in the form of electrical
signals and recorded on magnetic, optical, or mechanical recording media.
Data
Management
The development, execution and supervision of plans, policies, programs and
practices that control, protect, deliver and enhance the value of data and
information assets.
The policies, procedures, and technical choices used to handle data through its
entire lifecycle from data collection to storage, preservation, and use.
Datasets
Collection of data presented in a tabular or non tabular form
Government
data
Data produced or commissioned by government institution
Government
information
information created, collected, processed, disseminated, or disposed of, by or
for the Government
Information Any collection of Data that is processed, analysed, interpreted, classified or
communicated in order to serve a useful purpose, present fact(s) or represent
knowledge in any medium or form.
Machine
readable
Data in a format that can be automatically read and processed by a computer
such as CSV, XLS,JSON and XML.
Open Data Data in machine-readable format that is publicly available under an “open”
license that ensures it can be freely used, reused, redistributed by anyone for
any legal purpose.
Open Data
Ecosystem
An approach to Open Data that focuses not only on data but on the larger
environment for Open Data use—its “ecosystem”—including other key
dimensions like leadership, policy/legal framework, institutions,
vi
TERM DEFINITION
infrastructure and the state of user communities (like developers, universities,
private sector).
Open Data
Portal
A national web based platform that aggregates open data catalogue for
government agencies which the public could quickly and efficiently access
data of interest
FOREWORD - CONSULTATION ON SUBMISSION MINISTRY
1
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Historical Background
The world is experiencing the growth of a global movement on data innovations
facilitated by information technology and the demand of the public to access government
data. Access to data facilitates both individuals, the private sector as well and the general
public to acquire new insights and innovations for improved service delivery and
livelihood of the people. The technology provides an unprecedented opportunity to
enhance good governance- accountability, transparency, efficiency and effectiveness of
the government.
It will be recalled that since independence the Government of Tanzania has taken various
initiatives towards realization of accountability, transparency and efficiency. Among the
notable initiatives include: the Arusha Declaration, Decentralization Policy,
establishment of oversight institutions-Public Procurement Regulatory Authority
(PPRA), Prevention and Combating Corruption Bureau (PCCB), Controller and Auditor
General (CAG); Parliamentary Committees, the Good Governance and Human Rights
Commission (GGHRC) and Ethics Secretariat.
Other initiatives include establishment of Government Communication Units (GCUs) in
public institutions, Wananchi and Government Portals, Clients Service Charter and
Complaint Handling Mechanism. The Government also has been releasing for public
access and discussion publications and reports such as Quarterly Budget Executions,
Public Expenditure Reviews, Annual Citizen Budget and CAG’s annual audit of
government expenditures.
These efforts go in line with the implementation of several key and cross-cutting
government reforms to improve on good governance and service delivery through
realization of the aspirations of Vision 2025, Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)
and National Strategy for Growth and Poverty Reduction (NSGPR) also known as
MKUKUTA. Such reforms are: the Public Service Reform Program (PSRP), the Local
Government Reform Program (LGRP), the Legal Sector Reform Program (LSRP), the
Public Financial Management Reform Program (PFMRP), the National Anti-Corruption
2
Strategy and Action Plan (NACSAP) and implementation frameworks through Big
Results Now (BRN).
Moreover, as part of strengthening good governance and making Government business
more open to its citizens, Tanzania has joined regional initiatives such as the African
Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) in 2004 and international initiatives such as the Open
Government Partnership (OGP) in 2011. OGP in particular, has four (4) key principles
of good governance namely– Transparency, Citizen Participation, Accountability and
Integrity, Technology and Innovation that are to be observed by member countries
through their own national action plans.
In order to realise the OGP principles, the Government of Tanzania developed a number
of Action Plans. The first Plan was implemented in 2012/13 covering twenty five
commitments implemented in three main sectors–education, health and water. The
second Plan 2014-2016 focuses on commitments related to Access to Information, Open
Budget, Open Data, Extractive Industry and Land Transparency. The commitment on
Open Data was to establish a strong Open Data system and practices aimed at
empowering the public to hold the government accountable.
Despite a litany of the initiatives undertaken by the Government towards attain high
quality of lives for its people; there are challenges that need to be addressed. These
include, but not limited to: access to government data in a simplified manner and
machine readable format to enable use and re-use of data and absence of harmonized
regulations, procedures and strategies to manage and release such data.
This calls for a comprehensive policy that will guide public institutions in production
and releasing of data. Taking advantage of the plight of information and communication
technology, the Policy will provide directives, guidelines, and uniformity in
implementing Open Data initiatives in Tanzania.
3
1.2 Situation Analysis
Open Data initiative is a new concept to Tanzania, which sets a new prospect and
possibility for the government to improve its service delivery in a more transparent and
accountable manner. The assessment of the current situation herein below provides the
case for change towards formulating a policy guide for Tanzania to benefit from the new
concept and its dynamics.
In 2013 the Government of Tanzania conducted the Open Data Readiness Assessment
(ODRA) to scan the situation and set the baseline for the implementation of Open Data
initiative in the country. The assessment based on the ‘Eco-system’ approach which has
eight criteria considered essential for an Open Data initiative success has provided major
thrust in the formulation of this policy.
The assessment criteria are: leadership, national technology and skills infrastructure,
demand for data, government data, instructional framework, financing, policy and legal
framework. Based on the ODRA criteria and other recent dimensions in the socio-
economic and political advancement of the country, a critical situation analysis below
informed the policy objectives and statements.
1.2.1 Leadership
According to the ecosystem approach, leadership is the most critical success factor for
Open Data agenda. It is essential that top leaders publicly demonstrate their commitment
to the agenda and keep public institutions accountable for its implementation. It is
equally important that Open Data champions are groomed across the public institutions.
Findings from ODRA revealed that the Government has committed to major national
objectives that create a solid political and policy foundation for building a high-impact
Open Data initiative. This is evidenced by the commitment of the country through
joining the OPG in 2011.
On Top of that, the government affirmed high level commitment to the OGP ideals
through remarks made by H.E, President of United Republic of Tanzania at the OGP
fore on 20th April, 2012 in Brasilia, Brazil and in London, October 2013 respectively.
The commitment has been reinvigorated by the 5th Phase Government through its party
4
manifesto 2015-2020 and through the speech of H.E President John Pombe Magufuli
during inauguration of the 11th National Assembly on 20th November, 2015 where he
emphasized on the virtues accountability, transparency and openness as prerequisites for
improved service delivery. However, wider leadership on Open Data across the wider
public institutions has not yet developed hence the need for capacity building and
awareness.
1.2.2 National Technology and Skills Infrastructure
Technological infrastructure provides a platform for accessing, sharing, analysing and
usage of data. The infrastructure that includes availability of physical communication
networks, devices, ICT skills (for both technical and non-technical users), internet access
and affordability increases the chances of success to Open Data initiatives.
Government has made substantial investments in the ICT infrastructure and technical
training for its public servants. There is significant development of skills on managing
and using ICT systems. Several Higher Education Institutions are also in place with full
Faculties of Innovation and Technology thus producing a large number of graduates with
ICT technical know-how.
The Public Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements have also offered opportunities for
engagement and collaboration in sharing infrastructure to minimize costs through
duplication of resources. Such collaborations include investment; development and
installation of the National Fibre Optic Backbone implemented throughout the country
to lower the costs of communication and increase coverage.
On the other hand, mobile phone operators have helped to increase access to internet by
providing wide range of internet bundles for various usages. Overall mobile penetration
in Tanzania is considered high at around 60% of the population (as of December 2012).
According to TCRA, mobile subscription has increased from 27,395,650 in December
2012 to 35,920,090 by September 2015. Some public institutions have used these
opportunities to migrate to e-Services, including mobile phone-enabled billing systems.
Efforts are also directed at harmonizing different Government systems under various
public institutions to be able to share infrastructure, data and other resources. Despite
these achievements the internet coverage is still limited to urban areas and is unreliable
5
especially in rural areas which could hinder success of Open Data Initiatives across the
country.
1.2.3 Government Data
Public institutions generate different types of data as part of daily activities; such data
are valuable for social economic development. The availability of data is the key to the
identification of development opportunities and policy decision making when are easily
accessed, shared and re-used. Therefore, opening up government data by default allows
proactive use of resources encourages innovation and creates accountability for
economic growth.
According to the ODRA findings, Tanzania has made a specific OGP commitment to
publish social and economic data. Ministries have a clear understanding of their data
assets and have their own Management Information Systems (MIS) that enable them to
have some degree of visibility into their data assets. However, the quality of data
(planning, collection, processing, analysis and storage), standards, coding systems and
the capacity to conduct inspections or other verification mechanisms is a concern.
The government through public institutions has been producing massive data which are
useful for the social economic development of the country. In order to make sure that
these data are accessed to the public, the Government has established various
mechanisms of releasing government data to the public such as websites, databases,
notice boards, exhibitions and the media. However, most of the data are not in a machine
readable format that can facilitate accessibility, usability and re-usability. In addition to
that there is no one stop center that the public can access the government information.
1.2.4 Demand For Data And Engagement With User Communities
Demand for data and engagement with user communities are vital for enhancing
innovation. While releasing machine-readable data is crucial, engagement of the user
community is of importance. Increasing the level of awareness on Open Data is of
particular interest to public institutions, Non State Actors (NSA), technologist and the
media. The Government must therefore communicate about opportunities created by
Open Data. ODRA report indicated that there is a large demand for data within and
6
outside the government. However, data users face challenges to access the data due to
existing access procedures from public institutions.
1.2.5 Institutional Framework
Institutional arrangement is one of the key factors on the success of Open Data
implementation. This is based on where the lead institution is located, its capacity and
preparedness in managing Open Data initiatives. Lack of clear institutional framework
is one of the causes of failures. Findings from ODRA report revealed that there is no
clear location of lead institution for the Open Data agenda. Currently there are
institutions like National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), e-Government Agency (eGA), The
Records and Archives Management Department (RAMD), Tanzania Information
Services and the rest of public institution having different mandates on the management
of Open Data.
In order to address this gap, the Chief Secretary Circular No. 2 of 2015 on Open Data
established an interim institutional arrangement. The National Bureau of Statistics
(NBS) is responsible for coordinating official Statistics and managing Open Data Portal
content; e-Government Agency (eGA) was mandated with developing and maintenance
of the Open Data portal and provision of technical support to public institutions;
The Records and Archives Management Department is responsible for coordinating data
classification and verification; and Tanzania Information Services was given
responsibilities of raising awareness on Open Data Initiatives. However, despite the
current interim institution arrangement, there is no overall lead institution with policy
mandate to coordinate the implementation of Open Data initiatives.
1.2.6 Financing
Implementations of Open Data initiatives need adequate financial resources for
collecting, curating, maintaining and updating the data. The essence of financing is
premised on the fact that the Open Data will be available electronically free of charge
for use and re-use. However, in exceptional circumstances, some data may be available
at marginal cost of distribution.
7
Despite the importance of Open Data agenda the government has not internalized these
initiatives in its operational budgets. The success of Open Data implementation will
thus depend on adequate funding from both the government and private sector.
1.2.7 Policy and Legal Framework
Existing government policies and legal frameworks can act as enabling or impeding
factors for the implementation of Open Data initiatives. Therefore policies, laws and
regulations pertaining to access, use and re-use of government data, copyright and
statistics, as well as policies related to the charging for government data need to be
reviewed. In order to reduce the possibilities of conflict of interest with existing policies
(National ICT Policy, 2003; National Records and Archives Management Policy, 2010;
Information and Broadcasting Policy, 2003) and diversity of laws, it is essential that,
Open Data initiatives work within, and leverage on an enhanced existing policy and legal
framework.
The current framework unveils a scattered legal framework. The right to seek and receive
and disseminate information, and the right to be informed are guaranteed under Article
18 of the Constitution of the United Republic of Tanzania, 1977, CAP. 2 [R.E. 2002].
The Records and Archives Management Act, of 2002 vests the administration and
management of public records and archives to the Records and Archives Management
Department. The Act further restricts access of information that is classified as
confidential or secret on grounds of national security, maintenance of public order;
safeguarding the revenue or protection of personal privacy.
On the same grounds, the National Security Act, CAP. 47 [R.E. 2002] prohibits the
disclosure of public information and The Statistics Act, No.9 of 2015 apart from
establishing NBS as an agency responsible for production, coordination, supervision,
and dissemination of official statistics, the institution solely mandated with policy and
legal prerogatives to disclose statistical records solely for research or statistical purposes
and third party are restricted to share such information.
There are also other existing laws that affect access, use, and re- use of data, and these
include: Copyright and Neighboring Rights Act, CAP. 217 [R.E. 2002], Tanzania
Extractive Industries (Transparency and Accountability), No. 16 of 2015, Oil and Gas
Revenue Management Act, No. 22 of 2015, the Petroleum Act, No. 8 of 2015 and
Electronic Transaction Act, 2015. Despite of the elevated constitutional guarantees and
8
basic policies and laws, there is no specific policy and harmonized legal framework to
regulate access, use and re-use of government data.
1.3 Challenges
The situational analysis aforementioned has focused on both on the eight criteria
according to the Eco-System approach in Open Data as well as analysis of existing
environment in the country to scan the best scenario and gaps. From the analysis, the
following challenges that might hinder implementation of Open Data initiatives have
been highlighted:
i) Absence of Open Data policy.
ii) Absence of laws and regulations for Open Data.
iii) Low level of awareness on Open Data among public institutions and the public.
iv) Management Information Systems in the public institutions ar not interoperable.
v) Limited coverage of Management Information Systems (regional or district
centres).
vi) Unaffordable, limited and unreliable internet coverage.
vii) Inadequate sharing of ICT infrastructure among the public institutions and
private sector.
viii) Variations in data management and data ownership among public institutions.
ix) Data are not published in machine readable format.
x) Inadequate capacity of human resources implementing Open Data initiatives.
xi) Lack of Open Data governing structure within the implementing agencies.
xii) Absence and location of lead institution mandated with implementation of Open
Data initiatives.
xiii) Inadequate financial resources for implementation of Open Data initiatives.
CHAPTER TWO
RATIONALE, VISION, MISSION ANDOBJECTIVES OF THE
POLICY
9
2.1 Rationale of the Policy
The Government in its daily undertakings produces a lot of data that are very crucial for
the social economic development of the country and empowerment of the citizenry.
Opening up government data is a key foundation for creating a knowledge based
economy and society. The availability of data freely and in machine readable formats
will allow use and re-use and promote transparency, accountability, citizen
empowerment to to improve public service delivery in one hand and to realize the larger
aspiration of the Vision 2025.
To attain the aspirations, the Government has established various mechanisms, tools and
legal frameworks for releasing data to the public. The mechanisms are websites, online
information systems and portals. Laws and regulations facilitating the arrangements
include National ICT policy (2003), The National Records and Archive Management
policy (2010), National Statistics Act, 2015, Electronic Transactions Act, 2015 , Cyber
Crime Act,2015 and National Security Act,1970.
Despite having these mechanisms, policies, laws and regulations the plight of ICT and
the increasingly demand for data has necessitated the government to adopt and adapt to
new ways of data management and disseminations. To address the aforementioned
challenges and the new demands, it is imperative to formulate this Open Data Policy, in
order to put in place the standards and guidelines for Open Data. The policy will also
provide an institutional and legal framework for Open Data management.
2.2 Vision and Mission of the Policy
This policy will have the following vision and mission.
2.2.1 Vision
Achieve and sustain economic growth and improved public service delivery in a
transparent and accountable manner.
2.2.2 Mission
To put in place an enabling environment for the public to access government data and
promote use and re-use of data through efficient and effective technology for socio-
economic development.
10
2.3 Objective of the Policy
2.3.1 General Objective
The general objective of this policy is to provide guidance and framework on the
management of Government Open data and provide an institutional and legal framework
to improve public service delivery.
2.3.2 Specific Objectives
i) To enhance capacity of public institutions to manage open data
ii) To ensure access, use and re-use of government data
iii) To ensure quality of government data provided by public institutions
iv) To put in place an institutional framework to facilitate Open Data
v) To enhance policy and legal framework for implementation of Open Data
vi) To ensure adequate funds to facilitate Open Data initiatives
vii) To ensure government data are open by default
11
CHAPTER THREE
POLICY ISSUES AND POLICY STATEMENTS
3.1 Public Institutions Capacity in Managing Open Data
3.1.1 Policy Issue
Open Data concept is a new phenomenon in government operations. Institutions will
need to be prepared in terms of awareness and capacity to manage the initiatives.
Currently, technical capacity and preparedness on Open Data among public institutions
are inadequate.
3.1.2 Policy Objective
To enhance capacity of public institutions to manage open data
3.1.3 Policy Statements
The government in collaboration with stakeholders shall:-
i) Increase Open Data literacy
ii) Facilitate public institutions with technical expertise on Open Data
initiatives
iii) Create awareness of Open Data to data providers and users
3.2 Access, Use and Re-Use of Government Data
3.2.1 Policy Issue
The Government produces broad range of data as part of its daily activities. The value
of data increases when easily accessed shared and re-used for any lawful purpose. The
Government of Tanzania has established mechanisms for releasing data to the public and
for different uses such as planning, decision making, innovation, and research for
development. These mechanisms include establishment of Government
Communications and ICT Units in Public institutions. Despite these efforts, there are
some barriers, which hinders accessibility, usage, and re-usability.
3.2.2 Policy Objective
To enhance access, use and re-use of Government Data.
12
3.2.3 Policy Statements
The Government in collaboration with stakeholders shall;
i) Ensure Government Open Data are accessed and shared;
ii) Promote creativity and spur innovation on Open Data.
iii) Develop standards and guidelines and for access, use and re-use.
3.3 Open Data By Default
3.3.1 Policy Issue
The government recognises the importance of open its data to the public. Therefore the
government will ensure the data are Open by Default in considerations of privacy,
national security, protection of honour and reputation, public order and safety or other
confidentialities.
3.3.2 Policy Objective
To ensure government data are open by default.
3.3.3 Policy Statements
The Government in collaboration with stakeholders shall;
i) Ensure government data are published as Open Data
ii) Develop guideline for publishing open data by default
3.4 Quality of Government Data
3.4.1 Policy Issue:
The Government holds vast amount of data that are of interest to the public for social
economic development. Despite the government efforts to release the data to the Public,
some of the data are not in acceptable quality as per Open Data principles. Data
collection and management systems are also inefficient as well as challenges of
inadequate capacity and skills in terms of data processing and management.
3.4.2 Policy Objective
To improve quality of data in public institutions to attain Open Data principles
3.4.3 Policy Statements
i) Develop comprehensive data management systems in Public Institutions.
ii) Develop standards and guidelines to ensure data quality management.
13
iii) Develop feedback mechanism for improved data quality
iv) Ensure comprehensive, accurate and timely release of open data.
3.5. Institutional Framework
3.5.1 Policy Issue:
Open Data implementation requires institution framework that is clear, well-functioning
coordinating body with policy mandates to oversee and coordinate Open Data
implementation. Institutions like NBS, eGA; RAMD and Tanzania Information Services
are all having different mandates on the management of Open Data. Despite the current
institutional arrangement, there is no overall lead institution with policy mandate of
Open Data initiatives.
3.5.2 Policy Objective
To strengthen institutional framework for implementation of Open Data initiatives
3.5.3 Policy Statements
The Government in collaboration with stakeholders shall;
i) Ensure a comprehensive institutional framework for implementation of Open
Data initiatives
ii) Establish a lead agency for the implementation Open Data –strategy-
iii) Prepare appropriate structures within public institutions to facilitate
implementation of Open Data- strategy
iv) Enhance policy capacities to manage Open Data implementation
3.6 Policy and Legal Framework
3.6.1 Policy Issue:
Global experiences show that a comprehensive legal and regulatory clarity is essential
for the implementation of Open Data initiatives. Clear policies and laws ensures that
public institutions follow consistent principles and guidelines on the release of data, use
a standard “open data” license and comply with security, privacy and technical standards
for open formats. Current legal framework establishes the basic foundation for Open
Data initiatives to flourish. However, there are no specific legislation setting out the rules
14
and guidelines on access and re-use of government data, the existing legal framework is
limited on regulating the type and amount of data to be released.
3.6.2 Policy Objective
To strengthen policy and legal framework for the implementation of Government Open
Data
3.6.3 Policy Statements
The Government in collaboration with stakeholders shall;
i) Put in place an appropriate policy and legal framework.
ii) Enact new legislations and licenses relevant for Open Data.
iii) Develop a comprehensive regulatory framework for the implementation of
Government Open Data.
3.7 Financing
3.7.1 Policy Issue:
The success of the administration, implementation process and sustainability of Open
Data initiatives depends on the availability of adequate funds. Currently, respective
public institutions cover the costs of implementing Open Data initiatives. The
government has committed initial resources for the implementation of Open Data
initiatives; however, adequate financial resources are required to sustain the initiatives.
3.7.2 Policy Objective
To ensure the availability of funds to facilitate Open Data initiatives
3.7.3 Policy Statements
The government in collaboration with stakeholders shall;
i) Establish a funding mechanism for Open Data initiatives
ii) Ensure adequate funds allocated for Open Data implementation
3.8 National Technology and Skills Infrastructure
3.8.1 Policy Issue:
Technological infrastructure is a prerequisite for successful implementation of Open
Data initiatives. The Government in collaboration with Private Sector has made
substantial investments in building ICT infrastructure and building capacity for technical
15
and non-technical users. Although there is strong base on ICT skills and infrastructure,
there is a minimal amount of shared infrastructure and systems among public institutions
and limited ICT skills to meet increasing demands for expertise and internet coverage is
concentrated in urban areas. All these require concerted efforts in order to successfully
implement Open Data Initiatives in the country.
3.8.2 Policy Objective
To enhance ICT infrastructure and skills for Open Data within public institutions
3.8.3 Policy Statements
The Government and other stakeholders shall:-
i) Develop and maintain one stop center for open data
ii) Ensure sharing of ICT infrastructure
iii) Promote system interoperability
iv) Enhance ICT skills for Open Data
v) Enhance internet Coverage across the country
3.9 Crosscutting Policy Issues
3.9.1 Public Private Partnership (Ppp)
3.9.1.1 Policy Issue
The private sector is one of the partners in socio-economic development in any country.
The United Nation e-Government Survey of 2014, noted that, Government in many parts
of the world are becoming more collaborative, open and transparent, innovative and
inclusive by engaging citizens, communities, NGOs and the private sector in devising
and implementing together solutions to the society’s challenges. In realizing the role of
private sector in economic development of the country, the Government of Tanzania has
formulated the Public Private Partnership Policy of 2009, and enacted the Public Private
Partnership Act of 2010 to facilitate collaboration and engagement of the sector.
Through this arrangement, the Government and Private sector have established
collaboration in development and sharing of ICT systems and infrastructures. For
example, the Private sector has partnered with the government in provision of e-services
such as billing payments, examination results, online applications and automatic
message notifications, researches as well as investments in ICT infrastructure and
building capacity for technical and non-technical users. The government can strengthen
16
these collaborations and engagements to leverage on the existing and future Open Data
initiatives. The Government shall also encourage private sectors, Non State Actors
(NSAs) and Development Partners to open their data.
3.9.1.2 Policy Objective
To optimize the benefits accrued from the private sector on Open Data
3.9.1.3 Policy Statement
The Government shall:-
i) Promote collaboration PPP investments
ii) Enhance collaboration in research and development
iii) Create a platform for sharing of technical expertise and experience
iv) Encourage private sector, NSAs and Development Partners to open their data
3.10 Decentralisation By Devolution (D By D)
3.10.1 Policy Issue
Articles 145 and 146 of the Constitution of Tanzania of 1977 establishes the Local
Government Authorities (LGAs) and stipulates their functions that include the right and
power to participate and involve the people in planning and implementation of
development programs. The LGAs Acts CAP 287, 288 and CAP 290 mandates LGAs to
provide public services.
LGAs are the main source of government data demanded by stakeholders using different
systems. However, the systems used do not communicate (silos) which impair quality of
data, decision-making and services provided to the community. The capacity in terms
ICT skills and infrastructures is generally weak.
3.10.2 Policy Objective
To strengthen capacity and harmonize systems for data management
3.10.3 Policy Statement
i) Enhance ICT capacities to manage the Open Data initiative at all levels (PO-
RALG, LGAs and Village)
ii) Ensure data management systems are interoperable.
17
CHAPTER FOUR
LEGAL FRAMEWORK
The policy recognizes the existence of, and will comply and work in conjunction with
other policies which have taken on board issues related to the access, use and reuse of
government data and records, intellectual property, statistics and ICT. Such policies
include the National Records and Archives Management Policy, 2010 and National ICT
Policy, 2003.
The policy further recognizes that, in order to give effect to the policy objectives and
directions given herein, a comprehensive review of the existing legal framework need to
be conducted, and where appropriate, amendments or revisions of existing policies, laws
and procedures be proposed to ensure operability of Open Data initiative, ideals and
objectives stated herein and data management, release and re-use practices to ensure all
are consistency with the requirements in this policy.
In addition, the policy recognizes a need to enact new laws and regulations, including
those related to Right to Information, Privacy and Data Protection and other laws
relevant for the implementation of Open Government Data.
18
CHAPTER FIVE
INSTITUTIONAL, MONITORING AND EVALUATION
FRAMEWORK
5.1 Institutional Framework
The implementation of Open Data Policy will involve all public institutions in
partnership, where relevant, with the private Sector, Civil Society Organisations,
Development Partners, academia and community at large. These actors need to be guided
by institutional framework that assigns roles and responsibilities to avoid duplication of
functions and resources. The distribution of roles and responsibilities will be as follows:-
5.1.1 Ministry Responsible for Government Open Data
The Ministry responsible for open Data shall oversee the implementation of this policy.
The Ministry will play a fundamental role of ensuring that the objectives set out in this
policy are achieved.
5.1.2 National Bureau for Statistics (NBS)
National Bureau for Statistics (NBS) will be the lead agency responsible for coordination
and management of Open Data initiative. The Bureau will coordinate public institutions
data uploading to and updating the Government Open Data Portal. NBS in collaboration
with eGA and RAMD will develop technical standards for Open Data that will be applied
by public institutions in preparation of Open Data.
5.1.3 Records And Archives Management Department
The Department will be responsible for vetting the contents of open data, coordinating
data classification, verification, and approve data that are open for uploading to the Open
Data Portal.
5.1.4 e-Government Agency;
The e-Government Agency (eGA) is responsible for developing and maintaining the
Open Data portal and provision of technical support to public institutions. The Agency
will also prepare specialised training programmes to public institutions implementing
Open Data initiatives to build capacity.
19
5.1.5 Tanzania Information Services (MAELEZO);
The Department shall be responsible for raising awareness on Open Data
implementation and releasing other necessary information for public buy-in.
5.1.6 Public Institutions
Public institutions shall be responsible for producing datasets in agreed format and
quality for approval and uploading the approved data in the central Open Data portal.
Each institution shall also be responsible for updating the dataset on the Open Data portal
from time to time.
5.2 Policy Monitoring and Evaluation Framework
5.2.1 Monitoring
Open Data initiatives will be implemented from the institutional level. Every institution
shall prepare implementation reports according to the government reporting cycles.
5.2.2 Evaluation
Evaluation of the implementation of Open Data initiatives will be conducted in five (5)
years basis. There will be Open Data conference that will draw participants from
Government, Civil Societies Organisations, Private sector and Development partners.
The conference will be a platform for stakeholders sharing on the success and challenges
of implementing Open Data in the country and recommends for the better ways of
improvement.