By: Audrey Raymonda John
In a pivotal meeting aimed at reinforcing international cooperation for Census 2026, Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL) held high-level discussions with the British High Commission in Freetown. The engagement focused on securing technical and financial support and aligning the upcoming census with global standards.
Andrew Bob Johnny Statistician-General and Chief Census Officer, Statistics Sierra Leone highlighted the major milestone of fully digitizing the census from enumeration through data analysis positioning it as a cornerstone for national development.
Mapping exercises are scheduled to begin in July 2025, with training for approximately 700 cartographers commencing in August. This training aims to fully document national structures for inclusive census coverage.
Following a technical assessment in January 2025 by UNFPA, U.S. Census Bureau, and UNECA, the census enumeration has been officially postponed to December 2026, with a pilot census in December 2025. The government has allocated $6.5 million toward preparations, and development partners are committed to further support.
Despite fiscal constraints, Mr. Johnny emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment, stating there is no “Plan B”reiterating the census as a non-negotiable national priority. He appealed to the British High Commission for supplemental technical and financial support.
In response, Mrs. Maclean acknowledged the importance of the exercise and expressed willingness to explore support options, while also seeking clarity on emerging challenges. UNFPA’s Ms. Mululuma reaffirmed her agency’s dedication to offering technical expertise in line with international benchmarks and amid evolving global economic constraints.
District Census Management Committees (DCMCs) have been established in all 16 districts, involving political, civil society, and traditional figures for inclusive participation.
Multiple consultative committees including Advisory, Technical, and Publicity Committees have been formed for planning, oversight, and public engagement. A recruitment drive attracted over 11,000 applicants for key census positions, with selection processes underway
This high-level engagement underscores Sierra Leone’s commitment to conducting a credible, inclusive, and internationally-aligned census. The British High Commission’s potential support, combined with UNFPA’s technical guidance, is expected to enhance both the process and outcomes of the 2026 Census.