Statistics Mapping Training Kicks Off Ahead of 2026 Census

Statistics Mapping Training Kicks Off Ahead of 2026 Census

Statistics officials have begun a 10-day mapping training in preparation for Sierra Leone’s 2026 Population and Housing Census. The training, which started today at Hotel 5/10 in the eastern part of Freetown, brings together participants from across the country.

The program is designed to equip participants with the skills needed for accurate data collection and mapping, which are essential for the success of the upcoming census. About 600 participants are currently attending the training, though the number will be reduced as participants are assessed through exams to determine their readiness for field assignments.

Following the completion of the training, the selected participants will embark on mapping exercises nationwide, ensuring that the census captures accurate population data for every district, city, and community.

The previous midterm population census in Sierra Leone was surrounded by controversy after the World Bank withdrew additional funding and declined to provide further technical support for the exercise.

Despite this setback, the Government of Sierra Leone proceeded with the census. Some opposition parties boycotted the exercise, claiming it was unnecessary and accusing the government of pursuing a geopolitical agenda by creating new constituencies and districts, similar to controversies that followed the 2015 census.

The government, however, denied these allegations, emphasizing that the primary goals of the midterm census were to correct errors from the previous census and to digitize the population data for more accurate and efficient record-keeping.