The major function of the SPU is the production and dissemination of strategic analytical studies; promotion of policy dialogue and advocacy; support for development of policies and programmes that promote economic growth and poverty reduction; and monitoring, evaluation and communication of progress towards the realization of stated national, programme and project objectives and results. In so doing, SPU strives to ensure that all activities undertaken are demand-driven/client-centered and are aimed at poverty reduction, human development and the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals.   

The specific functions of SPU however, include, but not limited to, the following:

1. Provision of sound technical and advisory support to the development of national development plans and policy documents including Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS), MDGs-based/consistent/responsive national and sectoral development plans and strategies.
2. Provision of monitoring, evaluation and communication functions to support the CO and national institutions, including the Government, in programmes/projects delivery.
3. Provision of technical and advisory support to the publication of flagship/cutting edge policy documents such as the National Human Development Report (NHDR), the Millennium Development Goals Report (MDGR) and other policy documents.
4. Provision of technical and advisory support in the conduct of policy oriented research on issues of economic growth, poverty reduction, gender, ICT and other MDG-related issues.
5. Provision of technical and advisory support to the formulation and implementation of pro-poor and gender-sensitive national, sub-national and sectoral policies, plans, programmes and budgets.
6. Support for resource mobilization, partnership development and gender mainstreaming to ensure effective CO programme delivery
7. Support national efforts aimed building the capacity of key national institutions such as the National Planning Commission and other line ministries, agencies and departments.
8. Support the strengthening of programme linkages and networking with other UN Agencies, International Financial Institutions (IFIs), and other development partners.
9. Performance of any other functions as may be directed by the Resident Representative/Coordinator, RBA and ASRO.