By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu- Bo City
Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL) has taken a major step toward shaping the nation’s data-driven future with the official launch of the 2026 Population and Housing Census. The ceremony, held on 1st December 2025 at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown, also featured the introduction of a new Data Initiative and Dashboard key innovations designed to modernize Sierra Leone’s national data ecosystem.
As the country’s central statistical authority, Stats SL emphasized that the 2026 Census will form the backbone of evidence-based policymaking, resource allocation, and long-term development planning. The census is expected to provide reliable, high-quality data for government ministries, development partners, local councils, and community-level planners nationwide.
In her welcome address, the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Madam Kenyeh Barlay, commended Stats SL for its leadership in strengthening Sierra Leone’s national statistical system. She stressed that accurate and timely data remain central to the successful implementation of the government’s “New Direction” Medium-Term National Development Plan.
“No development strategy can achieve its goals without accurate, credible, and timely data,” she said. “The 2026 Census, along with the new Data Initiative spearheaded by Stats SL, provides the foundation for fair and equitable resource allocation across the country.”
Statistician-General and Chief Census Officer, Andrew Bob Johnny, described the launch as a historic milestone for Stats SL, reinforcing its mission to deliver trusted national statistics. He highlighted the far-reaching importance of the census beyond the basic enumeration of the population.
“A national census determines where schools are built, how roads are prioritized, and how essential services are expanded across chiefdoms and districts,” he explained. “Stats SL is committed to ensuring that no community is left behind.”
UNFPA Country Representative Kunle Adeniyi praised Stats SL for adhering to international standards in planning and conducting the Pilot Census. He reaffirmed UNFPA’s continued support through technical guidance, capacity building, and logistical assistance throughout the census process.
Delivering the keynote address, Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh applauded Stats SL for promoting a transparent and inclusive approach to national data management. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that the 2026 Census remains credible, non-political, and reflective of the realities of all Sierra Leoneans.
“We must understand our population and living conditions to improve service delivery and achieve our national development goals,” he emphasized.
As preparations intensify, Stats SL maintains that the 2026 Population and Housing Census will play a crucial role in strengthening national planning systems, promoting equitable development, and accelerating Sierra Leone’s progress toward achieving a greener, more inclusive, and middle-income status by 2039.
