National Bureau of Statistics (NBS)

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) is Tanzania’s official government agency responsible for producing and disseminating statistical data to support national development, policy-making, and public awareness. Established under the Statistics Act No. 9 of 2015, the NBS operates as an autonomous public office under the Ministry of Finance and Planning, with its headquarters located in Dodoma.

Core Functions

The NBS plays a central role in Tanzania’s National Statistical System (NSS) and is mandated to:

• Conduct national censuses, including the Population and Housing Census, and other key surveys.

• Collect, compile, analyze, and disseminate official statistics on economic, social, demographic, and environmental indicators.

• Coordinate statistical activities across government institutions to ensure consistency and avoid duplication.

• Establish and enforce statistical standards and methodologies.

• Maintain a comprehensive inventory of available official statistics.

• Serve as the national contact point for international organizations seeking Tanzanian data.

Organizational Structure

The NBS is led by the Statistician General, currently Dr. Amina S. Msengwa, and is supported by a governing board. Its structure includes several directorates:

• Directorate of Population Census and Social Statistics

• Directorate of Economic Statistics

• Directorate of Statistical Operations

• Directorate of Finance, Administration & Marketing

Additionally, the NBS maintains regional statistical offices to support data collection and dissemination efforts across the country.

Key Activities and Publications

The NBS produces a wide range of statistical products, including:

• Tanzania in Figures

• Statistical Abstracts

• Labour Force Surveys

• Household Budget Surveys

• National Accounts Reports

• Trade and Transport Statistics

• Tourism Statistics

• Poverty Indicators

The bureau also leads major national surveys, such as the Population and Housing Census (most recently conducted in 2022) and the upcoming Census of Industrial Production 2023.

Legal and Strategic Framework

The NBS operates under the Statistics Act No. 9 of 2015, which outlines its functions, governance, and coordination role within the NSS. It also adheres to the NBS Strategic Plan 2021/22 – 2025/26, focusing on enhancing data quality, accessibility, and stakeholder engagement.

Contact Information

Head Office:
National Bureau of Statistics
64 Lusinde Road, Tambukareli
P.O. Box 2683, Dodoma, Tanzania

Phone: +255 26 2963822
Email: sg@nbs.go.tz
Website: www.nbs.go.tz