A well-functioning national health information system (HIS) is a prerequisite for the provision of reliable and timely health-related information. This information is essential for 1) policy development and evidence-informed decision-making; 2) proper health management and rational resource allocation; and 3) monitoring and evaluation of health systems and other related social services performance. National HIS draw upon multiple data sources, including civil registration and vital statistics systems, census, population-based surveys, routinely generated data from health facilities and administrative information systems. These are supported by governance structures, human and financial resources infrastructure and information, communications technology, quality assurance procedures, data management and standards, and clear plans for dissemination, use of the information and evidence generated from the system.