CASTRIES, St Lucia, (CMC) — A World Bank delegation is to hold talks with officials from the St Lucian government and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) on evaluating and enhancing national data systems.

The delegation will, over the next four days starting on Thursday, discuss the OECS Data for Decision Making (DDM) project, assessing its progress as well as finalising the annual work plan for upcoming initiatives.

“The OECS Data for Decision Making Project is a cornerstone of our commitment to empowering the countries of the Caribbean with the tools and systems they need to make informed, evidence-based decisions,” said World Bank Senior Economist Ann Luisa Paffhausen, who is also the mission’s team leader.

“This mission is not just about evaluating progress but about strengthening our partnerships, refining strategies and ensuring that the data becomes a transformative force for sustainable development. The World Bank is proud to support these efforts, which will have long-lasting benefits for the people of the OECS,” she added.

St Lucian Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Department of Economic Development, Barbara Ann Francis-Augustin, said this mission underscores the country’s dedication to using data as a strategic tool for national development.

“By collaborating with the OECS and the World Bank, we are taking significant steps to strengthen our decision-making processes and align our activities with the needs of our people. This partnership ensures that St Lucia continues to build a strong foundation in evidence-based policies and sustainable growth.”

A statement said that technical sessions will address the Agricultural Census and the Survey of Living Conditions Household Budget Survey methodology, financial management processes and updates to procurement strategies.

It said these collaborative activities will address challenges, refine methodologies and solidify action plans for the upcoming year.

“The outcomes of this mission will be pivotal in strengthening St Lucia’s capacity to use data as a driving force for decision-making, ultimately benefiting its citizens and aligning with sustainable development goals,” the statement added.

The DDM project was launched in 2022 and will be implemented over a five-year period. It seeks to produce quality data to inform policy decisions.

The Regional Data Governance Council (RDGC), a component of the World Bank-funded project, will play a vital role in ensuring that the OECS and its member states have access to high-quality, timely and reliable data.