TRENDS Research Advocates For Opinion Polls At WAPOR SSA Conference In Kenya

Recently, TRENDS Research and Advisory made a significant contribution to the "First Africa World Association for Public Opinion Research (WAPOR) SSA conference" held in Mombasa, Kenya. This event, under the theme "Shaping a Sustainable Future: Lessons and Legacies from Opinion Polling in Africa," brought to light the critical role of opinion polls in steering sustainable development efforts amidst the complex challenges of environmental sustainability, economic growth, and social inclusion.

The conference spanned four days, offering a deep dive into the influence and legacy of opinion polling across the African continent. It also shed light on the latest innovations within this field. A key focus was on how these polls could play a crucial part in identifying development priorities and tracking progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

One of the standout sessions revolved around the impact of digital technology on public opinion research. The discussions underscored the importance of including a wide range of voices in these research initiatives, particularly emphasizing the perspectives of women and youth. This inclusive approach is seen as essential for achieving comprehensive and representative insights into public opinion across diverse African communities.

Dr. Mohammed Farid Azzi, serving as a Scientific Advisor to the Global Barometer Department at TRENDS, contributed to the conference by presenting a research paper titled: "The Attitudes of Arab Maghreb Youth towards Reform and Change". This presentation highlighted the nuanced perspectives of youth in the Arab Maghreb region regarding various reform initiatives and their aspirations for change.

The participation of TRENDS Research and Advisory at this conference underscores the organization's commitment to advancing understanding and leveraging opinion polling as a tool for sustainable development. By focusing on inclusivity and embracing digital advancements, TRENDS aims to enhance the effectiveness of public opinion research in shaping policies that reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of communities across Africa.

The insights gathered from this conference are expected to contribute significantly to refining strategies for sustainable development across the continent. By tapping into the power of opinion polls, stakeholders can gain a deeper understanding of public sentiment, enabling them to tailor initiatives that resonate with local communities' needs and priorities.

With inputs from WAM