By: Audrey Raymonda John
Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL) has officially launched a nationwide cartographic mapping exercise in preparation for the 2026 Population and Housing Census (PHC ’26). This marks a major milestone in the lead-up to the country’s most significant national data collection effort.
The announcement was made by the Statistician-General & Chief Census Officer, Mr. Andrew Bob Johnny, who emphasized the importance of this foundational phase in ensuring a credible, inclusive, and comprehensive census.
The cartographic mapping exercise, conducted with technical support from GIS and Cartographic Mapping Consultant Dr. Foluke Adebayo, involves identifying and delineating enumeration areas, as well as systematically numbering all localities and physical structures across the country. This process ensures that every individual and household will be accurately counted in the correct location when the census is conducted in 2026.
“Mapping is a crucial step in the census process. It allows us to plan effectively, allocate resources equitably, and ensure that no one is left behind,” said Mr. Johnny. “The success of the 2026 Census depends on the success of this exercise.”
From October 2025 until 2026, trained field staff will be deployed across the country reaching both urban and rural communities. These personnel will be clearly identifiable by their official Census ID cards, branded T-shirts and caps, and digital tablets used for data collection.
Stats SL is appealing to all residents, community leaders, traditional authorities, and local government officials to offer their full cooperation and support to the mapping teams.
“We are counting on the cooperation of every Sierra Leonean to make this exercise a success,” Mr. Johnny added. “Your support is vital for producing reliable data that will guide national planning, inform policies, improve service delivery, and ensure equitable resource distribution.”
The 2026 Population and Housing Census is not just a statistical operation it is a strategic tool for national development. Accurate and timely data will enable informed decision-making in key sectors such as education, health, infrastructure, and social protection.
Stats SL encourages the public to welcome the mapping teams and actively support this essential national exercise, which lays the groundwork for a successful and impactful census.