By Joseph S Conteh
Statistics Sierra Leone welcomed a team of experts from the United Nations, Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), US Census Bureau, and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in New York to assess the country’s preparedness for conducting the 2025 Decennial Population and Housing Digital Census. The official opening of the assessment mission took place on the 13th of January, 2025, at the New Brookfield Hotel in Freetown.
During the event, Statistician General and Chief Executive Officer of Statistics Sierra Leone, Andrew Bob Johnny, emphasized the importance of accurate and timely statistics for evidence-based decision-making in managing economic and social affairs. He highlighted the role of the population and housing census in collecting and disseminating detailed statistics for small areas and populations, crucial for monitoring development and economic growth.
Dr. Mitall Sen from the US Census Bureau presented on the assessment mission’s applications to enhance the planning, monitoring, and reporting activities for efficient and transparent census management. The Minister of Information and Civic Education, Chernor Bah, expressed the government’s support for a successful census, emphasizing the importance of citizen engagement and understanding in the process.
In his official opening statement, the Minister of Planning and Economic Development, Kenyeh Barlay, commended the milestone achievement and financial commitment made towards conducting the census in December 2025. The collaborative efforts of all stakeholders are geared towards ensuring a successful and inclusive 2025 census in Sierra Leone.
