Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MoH) and with technical support from ICF, has commenced a four-day questionnaire review and adaptation workshop for the upcoming Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Survey (SLDHS).
The workshop, held at the Swiss Hotel, Babadorie Junction in Lumley, brings together key stakeholders, technical experts, and sector representatives to review and finalize the survey questionnaires that will guide the implementation of the nationwide exercise.
Delivering the welcome address, the Deputy Statistician General of Statistics Sierra Leone, Lansana Kpewolo Kanneh, highlighted the institution’s readiness to undertake the survey despite the demanding schedule of other ongoing national data collection activities, particularly preparations for the 2026 Population and Housing Census.
He emphasized the importance of strong coordination among stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of the Demographic and Health Survey.
Representing the Ministry of Health, Dr. Tom Sesay reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to the process, noting that the data generated from the survey will be critical for strengthening health planning, policy formulation, and service delivery across Sierra Leone.
Statements were also delivered by Dr. Dan, representing UNFPA, and Sara Scates of ICF. Both highlighted the importance of credible and reliable data in advancing national development and improving health outcomes. They also reiterated their institutions’ continued commitment to supporting the Demographic and Health Survey programme in Sierra Leone as a key platform for generating timely and up-to-date health and demographic data.
Also present at the workshop were the Director of the Demographic Health and Social Statistics Division (DHSSD), Mohamed Koblo Kamara, and the Director of the Communication and Public Relations Division (CPRD), Samuel Ansumana, who both contributed to discussions during the session.
The Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Survey is a critical national data collection exercise designed to generate reliable and up-to-date information on population dynamics, maternal and child health, nutrition, fertility, mortality, and other key health and demographic indicators.
The data produced from the survey will play an important role in informing government policies, development planning, and evidence-based decision-making across the country.
During the four-day workshop, participants will conduct a comprehensive review of the draft questionnaires to ensure they reflect Sierra Leone’s current data needs, align with international survey standards, and capture the relevant indicators required for monitoring national development priorities and global commitments.
The workshop also provides an important platform for experts from various sectors to contribute technical input, ensuring that the final questionnaires are robust, contextually appropriate, and capable of generating high-quality data for the country.