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Usually, the Ministry of Finance (MoF) through the External Finance Department is conducted routinely bilateral meeting with Development Partners to reconcile data on external resources including grants, public debts and related flows. Following this meeting, significant discrepancies are identified and are considered.
3.5 Revision studies
3.5.1 Studies and analyses of revisions and/or updates are carried out and used internally to inform statistical processes (see also 4.3.3).
• Revisions to the government finance statistics are periodically assessed.
Over the years, the GFS is archived in both soft and hardcopy formats and can be retrieved for revision studies. The preliminary data of the previous year are revised when the audited data from the Controller and Auditor General Office becomes available. However, there are neither studies were conducted to assess the preliminary and final data and investigate the sources of errors, omissions, and fluctuations in the data.
• Measures are undertaken to incorporate the findings from revision and/or update studies in data compilation.
No revision studies have been conducted by the GFS compilers.
- Serviceability
4.1 Periodicity and timeliness
4.1.1 Periodicity follows dissemination standards.
• The periodicity of the statistics follows the IMF data dissemination standards (Special Data Dissemination Standard (SDDS) or General Data Dissemination System (GDDS)).
The GFS data are disseminated annually in line with the IMF Data Dissemination Standards, specifically the Special Data Dissemination Standard (SDDS). The GFS data are submitted to IMF East Afritac in November and to the EAC Secretariat during the GFS and PSDS regional meeting. Additional GFS data are made available through various publications, such as the National Accounts Publication and the Economic Survey Publication in the NBS website http://www.nbs.go.tz and EAC data portal Data Catalog - East
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African Community Data Portal https://www.imf.org/en/Data
4.1.2 Timeliness follows dissemination standards.
• The timeliness of statistical series follows the IMF data dissemination standards (SDDS or GDDS).
The GFS data are disseminated annually, while debt statistics are disseminated quarterly, in accordance with the IMF Data Dissemination Standards, specifically the Special Data Dissemination Standard (SDDS). The GFS data are submitted to IMF East Afritac in November each year and to the EAC Secretariat during the GFS and PSDS regional meeting.
4.2 Consistency
4.2.1 Statistics are consistent within the dataset.
• Statistical series is internally consistent.
The concepts, definitions, and classifications used for compiling Government Finance Statistics (GFS) data have remained consistent over the years, in alignment with the Government Finance Statistics Manual (GFSM) 2014. Some tables of annual GFS data are published in the "Annual Economic Survey" and the "Statistical Abstract" reports. These publications typically present key fiscal data, such as government revenue, expenditure, financing operations, and government debt, providing important insights into the fiscal performance and financial management of the government. https://www.nbs.go.tz/statistics/tanzania-statistical-abstract
Economic Survey Books | MoF - Ministry of Finance
4.2.2 Statistics are consistent or reconcilable over a reasonable period of time.
• The statistical series is consistent over time.
Government Finance Statistics (GFS) data are consistent over time, ensuring reliability for analysis. These statistics are available through various publications, including the Economic Survey, Statistical Abstract, and National Accounts Publication. Additionally, they can be
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accessed on the websites of NBS and MoF offering a comprehensive resource for understanding fiscal performance and trends.
4.2.3 Statistics are consistent or reconcilable with those obtained through other data sources and/or statistical framework.
• The government finance statistics are consistent or reconcilable with the national accounts, monetary and financial statistics, balance of payments, external debt, public sector debt, and/or international investment position statistics.
Government Finance Statistics (GFS), aligned with the Government Finance Statistics Manual 2014 (GFSM 2014), maintain consistency with other macroeconomic frameworks. These include the System of National Accounts 2008 (SNA 2008), the Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual, Sixth Edition (BPM6), the Monetary and Financial Statistics Manual and Compilation Guide, and the Public Sector Debt Statistics: Guide for Compilers and Users.
4.3 Revision policy and practice
4.3.1 Revisions and/or updates follow a regular and transparent schedule.
• The practice of revisions (e.g., from provisional estimates, for weight updates, for changes in methodology) follows a predictable pattern of which users of statistics are informed.
In the compilation of Government Finance Statistics (GFS), provisional data are updated when final, audited figures become available. This revision process is systematic and predictable, ensuring users are informed to maintain transparency and confidence in the reliability of the statistics. Importantly, there have been no significant revisions to the statistics over the period, with no changes in methodology.
4.3.2 Preliminary and/or revised/ updated data are clearly identified.
• Users are informed about the preliminary nature of the data.
When the GFS data is first released, users are usually informed about its provisional nature. This is communicated through clear notes that highlight the data's potential for revision. Additionally, these updates often provide details about when the final data will be available and explain the methodology used in its compilation.
• Users are informed about the revised nature of the data.
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Users are informed about the revised nature of the GFS data through the implementation of a Revision Policy. This policy outlines the process and schedule for updating provisional data once final figures are available.
4.3.3 Studies and analyses of revisions and/or updates are made public.
• Users are informed of the results and studies of the revisions and/or updates to the statistics.
There is no analysis of differences between the revised and preliminary data, as there have been no methodological changes or major revisions to the data series.
- Accessibility
5.1 Data accessibility
5.1.1 Statistics are presented in a way that facilitates proper interpretation and meaningful comparisons (layout and clarity of text, tables, and charts).
• The presentation of the statistics data is commensurate with users’ needs.
Government finance statistics are released based on the standard components of GFSM 2014, along with time series data. Disaggregation is provided according to user requests. The data is presented in tabular format, with comments included in the publications when necessary. GFS data is made available to users without any adjustments.
5.1.2 Dissemination media and format are adequate.
• Statistics are disseminated in formats to suit users’ needs.
Statistics are made available in electronic format (PDF and Excel) following the GFSM 2014 framework. Current data can be accessed via the websites of the data-producing agencies or upon request.
5.1.3 Statistics are released on a preannounced schedule.
• Statistics are released on the preannounced schedule.
GFS data are timely published in accordance with the advance release calendar, following the preannounced schedule.
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5.1.4
Statistics are made available to all users at the same time.
• The statistics are made available to all users of statistics at the same time.
GFS are released according to the advance release calendar. In compliance with the Statistics Act CAP. 351, the statistics are made available to all users simultaneously.
5.1.5
Statistics not routinely disseminated are made available upon request.
• Statistics not routinely disseminated are made available to users upon request.
Additional statistics are available upon request. Users can freely obtain extra data and customized tabulations by visiting the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The Bureau offers access to a wide range of statistical information to meet various user needs. For instance, the NBS provides access to microdata and reports through the Tanzania National Data Archive (TNADA) platform, facilitating data-driven decisions. https://www.nbs.go.tz/
5.2 Metadata accessibility
5.2.1 Documentation on concepts, scope, classifications, basis of recording, data sources, and statistical techniques is available, and differences from internationally accepted standards, guidelines, or good practices are annotated.
• The metadata give adequate information about the meaning of the data and about the methodology used to collect and process them.
The GFS and PSDS Business Process document, which covers concepts, scope, classifications, recording basis, data sources, and statistical techniques for compiling GFS, is available and fully aligned with the GFSM 2014 and Public Sector Debt Statistics guidelines.
5.2.2 Levels of detail are adapted to the needs of the intended audience.
• Different levels of metadata are made available to meet users’ requirements.
The level of detail in GFS is guided by the EAC GFS and PSDS Guidelines, as well as the GFSM 2014. However, the degree of disaggregation can be adjusted to meet the specific needs of the user.
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5.3 Assistance to users
5.3.1 Contact points are publicized.
• Adequate assistance is given to users of statistics.
Users are informed about the agency, its products, and publications during national and international exhibitions, as well as through the dissemination of statistics. Assistance is provided to users of statistics as needed.
5.3.2 Publications, documents, and other services, including information on any charges, are widely available.
• Publications and other services are available to users of statistics.
Publications are available on the websites of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and specific data requests are handled as needed. The NBS Dissemination and Pricing Policy, governs the accessibility and provision of statistical information to meet user demands effectively.
- Conclusion
In general, the assessment results reveal that the business processes for production of
Government Finance Statistics complied to all dimensions as follows:
On Prerequisites of quality, the NBS has broadly effective legal frameworks (the
Statistics Act, CAP. 351) to support the compilation and dissemination of Government
Finance Statistics.
On Assurances of integrity of NBS, the Statistics Act, CAP. 351 clearly assures the professional independence of the Bureau. Recruitment and promotion of staff are mostly based on competence and expertise in specific subject areas. Staff are given the opportunity to take part in training courses, seminars and workshops. On Methodological soundness, Government Finance Statistics (GFS) demonstrate methodological soundness by adhering to international standards such as GFSM 2014, ensuring data consistency, reliability, and comparability. Key strengths include robust classification systems, market valuation principles, modified cash-based recording, and comprehensive coverage of assets and liabilities. On Accuracy and Reliability, Government Finance Statistics (GFS) is based on administrative records, including accounting data, budget information, financial statements, and banking records. The Public Sector Institutional Table (PSIT), which lists public entities like Budgetary Central Government and Local Government Authorities, is updated annually to ensure comprehensive data coverage. The
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Technical Working Group (TWG) reviews the PSIT and ensures data consistency with GFSM 2014 and PSDSG 2013 standards. Most data come from the Office of the Accountant General (ACGEN), with consultation when changes affect statistics. The data is sufficiently detailed for compiling and consolidating financial flows and stocks, eliminating the need for adjustments or supplementary sources. On Serviceability, Government Finance Statistics (GFS) adhere to IMF data dissemination standards (SDDS or GDDS), ensuring timely publication. GFS align with other statistical frameworks, such as national accounts, monetary and financial statistics, balance of payments, external debt, public sector debt, and international investment position statistics. Revisions, whether due to provisional estimates, weight updates, or methodological changes, follow a predictable and transparent pattern communicated to users. On Accessibility of data, the presentation of Government Finance Statistics prioritizes clarity and accessibility, ensuring that text, tables, and charts are structured to support proper interpretation and meaningful comparisons. Comprehensive documentation on concepts, scope, classifications, data sources, and methodologies are readily available. Any deviations from internationally accepted standards, guidelines, or best practices should be clearly annotated, enhancing transparency and facilitating informed use of the data.
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- Recommendations S/No Dimension Recommendation
Prerequisites of Quality • Budget allocated for production of Government Finance Statistics should be prioritized, sufficient and ringfenced by the government. • Continue providing more trainings on compilation of Government Finance Statistics and related field to staff so as to upgrade their skills and knowledge which will enable them to improve production of quality statistics. 1. Assurances of integrity • Ensure employees and stakeholders are trained on issues related to integrity regularly. • Identify and assess integrity risks through regular audits or risk assessments. • Periodically review processes to identify areas for improvement and adapt to changing circumstances or risks. • Induction course for the new recruited staff should be emphasized and the copies of Staff Regulation and Codes of Ethics and Conduct documents should be provided to the staff. 2. Methodological Soundness. • In ensuring methodological soundness during the compilation of Government Finance Statistics, it is essential to apply concepts and frameworks that align with the principles outlined in GFSM 2014. 3. Accuracy and Reliability • To enhance the reliability of Government Finance Statistics (GFS), periodic studies and analyses should be conducted to evaluate updates. These studies can help identify sources of error and bias, informing improvements in statistical processes and optimizing revision cycles based on the availability of key data sources. Additionally, a robust