By: Mohamed Jaward Nyallay
The Government of Sierra Leone has demonstrated unprecedented commitment to national data collection, investing more than US$20 million in preparation for the upcoming 2026 Decennial Housing and Population Census.
Speaking at the Civic Day Series in Karene district, on Tuesday April 14, 2026, the Director of Communication at Statistics Sierra Leone, Samuel Ansumana, praised the administration’s dedication, describing it as “the most firm commitment I have ever seen from any government to support Census in this country.”
According to Ansumana, the funds have been directed toward critical infrastructure and logistics, including the procurement of modern tablets, geo-mapping and satellite imagery software, vehicles, and other operational necessities. These investments are designed to guarantee accuracy, efficiency, and credibility in the census process.
The 2021 mid-term census faced significant logistical hurdles, particularly the late arrival of borrowed tablets from other countries. This time, however, Sierra Leone is taking no chances. By purchasing its own equipment, the government is ensuring that census officers will have the tools they need well in advance.
“We are determined to avoid the setbacks of the past. With our own tablets and advanced mapping technology, we are building a census system that reflects Sierra Leone’s growing capacity and independence,” Ansumana explained.
Beyond technology, preparations include the recruitment and training of hundreds of census officers, a move that not only strengthens the census process but also creates employment opportunities for young people across the country.
With the census just eight months away, Statistics Sierra Leone estimates that an additional US$10 million will be required to finalize preparations. This funding will cover final training, logistics, and community engagement to ensure nationwide participation.
The government views the census as more than a statistical exercise—it is a cornerstone for national planning. Accurate population and housing data will guide policies on education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation. Ansumana said “Census is a civic imperative”.
By investing heavily in the census, Sierra Leone is positioning itself to make informed decisions that will drive sustainable development and improve the lives of citizens.
This bold investment underscores the administration’s vision of a modern, data-driven Sierra Leone, where national planning is anchored in reliable statistics and where every citizen counts.
