In an important move to ensure the effective execution of the upcoming 2026 Decennial Population and Housing Census (PHC ’26), Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL) convened a high-level roundtable meeting with members of the Census Advisory Committee. This significant gathering aimed to provide a thorough update on the current status of the census implementation, fostering collaboration among key stakeholders.
The meeting witnessed robust participation from a diverse range of committee members, including representatives from the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED), the Parliamentary Sub-Committee on Population and Development, and the Inter-Religious Council of Sierra Leone. Additionally, the gathering included representatives from the Office of National Security (ONS), Sierra Leone Labour Congress, All People’s Congress (APC), Sierra Leone People’s Party (SLPP), the National Peace Commission, and various other political and civil society organizations. International development partners such as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), UNICEF, and the British High Commission were also present, highlighting the collaborative nature of the census initiative.
Mr. Moses Williams, the Chairman of the Stats SL Council and the Census Advisory Committee opened the meeting with remarks that underscored the committee’s critical role as the highest policy-making body for the census. He emphasized the importance of formulating sound policies and making informed decisions to guide the successful execution of the 2026 Census. Mr. Williams urged all committee members to engage in open and honest discussions from a non-partisan, nationalistic perspective, emphasizing that the census is a collective effort benefiting all Sierra Leoneans. With this call to action, he officially declared the meeting open.
Following Mr. Williams’ remarks, the Statistician-General and Chief Census Officer for the 2026 Census, Mr. Andrew Bob Johnny, delivered a comprehensive technical update. His presentation outlined several major milestones achieved thus far in preparation for the census. Among the highlights were significant financial backing from the Government of Sierra Leone, the completion of prior mapping exercise reviews, and the deployment of advanced Geographic Information System (GIS) tools, alongside the recruitment of specialized personnel.
Mr. Johnny further detailed the development of draft cartographic questionnaires, manuals, and handbooks, as well as the establishment of census geography and coding systems. He also shared news of the procurement and installation of GIS infrastructure, the acquisition of 500 customized tablets branded with the Stats SL logo, and the delivery of 35 brand new XL motorbikes along with 500 high-capacity power banks. Additionally, the selection of pilot mapping areas and the completion of Master Trainers’ training in Bo were noted as significant accomplishments. The formation of the first-ever District Census Management Committees was also highlighted as a crucial step in ensuring local engagement and oversight.
Madam Sebeso Mululuma, Officer-in-Charge of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), addressed the assembly on behalf of the agency, reaffirming UNFPA’s steadfast support for the 2026 Census. She emphasized the critical role of the Advisory Committee in ensuring a successful and inclusive national count, framing the census process as a collective effort that reflects a shared vision for a prosperous Sierra Leone. Madam Mululuma elaborated on UNFPA’s contributions, including the provision of national and international technical experts, assistance in census mapping, questionnaire design, and data methodologies, as well as capacity-building initiatives through training programs and quality assurance support aligned with international standards and best practices.
In addition, Mr. Usman Chery Conteh, Deputy Development Secretary at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, reiterated the Government’s unwavering commitment to supporting the census. His remarks echoed the sentiments of unity and collaboration expressed throughout the meeting.
Committee members representing both the APC and SLPP expressed their gratitude to Stats SL for the transparent and informative briefing. They collectively pledged their continued support for every stage of the census process, recognizing the importance of collaboration in achieving a successful national count.
As the meeting concluded, it became evident that the groundwork laid by Stats SL, in conjunction with various stakeholders, is paving the way for a successful 2026 Decennial Population and Housing Census, which is poised to provide critical data for national planning and development.
