By: Mohamed Jaward Nyallay
Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL) has officially announced the key timelines and preparations for the 2026 Population and Housing Census. In a press statement released on Wednesday, the national data agency detailed a roadmap of activities leading up to the Decennial Census, scheduled for December 2026.
According to the statement, cartographic mapping is set to begin in July 2025, while training for master trainers is already underway. The recruitment process for cartographers is also in progress, with over 11,000 applications received to date.
In addition to staffing, Stats SL has established several statutory bodies to oversee the various aspects of the census. These include the Technical Committee, Advisory Committee, Publicity Committee, and District Census Committees. The membership of these committees comprises representatives from political parties, civil society organizations (CSOs), the media, and key government institutions.
The statement further noted that, “In October 2024, a few weeks after the proclamation of the Census by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio, Statistics Sierra Leone initiated the process of establishing the administrative and organizational framework for the census, as mandated by law.”
A significant milestone in the preparation process will be the pilot census, scheduled for December 2025 exactly one year ahead of the main census. This pilot exercise will serve as a critical test of operational readiness and logistical planning.
Stats SL emphasized its commitment to transparency and public engagement throughout the census process. The agency has pledged to continue updating the public regularly and to encourage nationwide participation.
“Our goal is to listen, engage, and address concerns constructively, while upholding the integrity and nonpartisan nature of the census. We invite all stakeholders, communities, and individuals to share their perspectives and actively participate in this important national effort,” the statement concluded.