December 2026 Date Set for National Census
Sierra Leone’s 2026 Population and Housing Census will officially launch with Census Night on December 1, 2026, followed by nationwide enumeration starting December 2, 2026.
Speaking at a 50-day countdown press engagement at the Miatta Civic Centre in Freetown on Monday, Statistician General Andrew Bob Johnny urged nationwide cooperation, public trust, and non-political participation in the upcoming national exercise.
With World Bank data estimating Sierra Leone’s population at approximately 8.8 million in 2024, the census aims to establish an accurate, updated official national headcount.
Statistician General Andrew Johnny disclosed that the census project will cost nearly US$50 million. He confirmed that foundational preparation—including cartographic mapping, pilot surveys, and mock censuses—is complete. Authorities are now finalizing equipment procurement, material distribution, personnel training, and public awareness campaigns.
To execute the count, Statistics Sierra Leone plans to deploy between 24,000 and 25,000 enumerators. In an effort to streamline operations and prevent previous banking delays, field staff will be compensated directly via mobile money.
Addressing privacy concerns, Johnny assured citizens that all collected data will remain strictly confidential, urging residents across the country to cooperate fully with authorized personnel.
Minister of Planning and Economic Development Kenyeh Barlay emphasized that reliable demographic data is essential for effective government policy, fair resource distribution, and improved public services.
Reiterating the national mandate to "Leave No One Left Behind," Minister Barlay stressed the importance of counting every community, including remote settlements and persons with disabilities.
"Census data will inform key government policies, development programs, and decisions aimed at improving the lives of all citizens,"
Minister Barlay stated, calling on residents, community leaders, and local stakeholders to welcome field personnel.
Highlighting international support, UNFPA Deputy Representative Sibeso Mululuma praised Sierra Leone's commitment to modernizing the census through digital tools.
UNFPA has supplied 25,000 customized tablets configured for Statistics Sierra Leone to ensure secure and efficient data collection, alongside technical assistance and training programs to build local capacity.
Mululuma also extended gratitude to the governments of Iceland and Ireland for their financial contributions supporting the digital census effort.
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