New Brookfields Hotel, Jomo Kenyatta Road, Freetown
As part of its commitment to delivering a credible and inclusive 2026 Population and Housing Census, Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL), convened a two-day high-level engagement with members of the Advisory and Technical Committees at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown.
The engagement served as a strategic platform to update committee members on progress made so far, outline the roadmap ahead, and gather expert input to strengthen census preparedness. It reflected Stats SL’s ongoing dedication to transparency, collaboration, and technical excellence.
In his opening remarks, the Statistician-General and Chief Census Officer, Mr. Andrew Bob Johnny, expressed gratitude to committee members for their continued guidance and reiterated the importance of regular stakeholder engagement to ensure the success of the census.
Also addressing the gathering, Mr. Moses Williams, Chairman of the Stats SL Council, lauded the progress recorded so far and encouraged ongoing technical support from all partners.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Mr. Edourd Talnan, Chief Technical Adviser (CTA) for the Census, reaffirmed UNFPA’s strong support and emphasized the importance of data quality, integrity, and stakeholder coordination.
Progress Update on Census Preparations
A comprehensive progress update was presented by Mr. Lansana Kpewolo Kanneh, Deputy Statistician-General, covering several key areas:
•✅ Pilot Cartographic Mapping: Successfully completed to test the tools, methods, and workflows for nationwide mapping.
•🗺 Preparation for National Mapping: Operational plans, timelines, and resource requirements were outlined to ensure a seamless nationwide rollout.
•📊 Pilot Census (Dec 2025): Planned to test all components of the census—data collection tools, training modules, logistics, and enumeration strategies.
•💻 Digital System Readiness: Updates on mobile data collection platforms, secure data storage, and digital processing systems to ensure technological efficiency.
•📣 Public Awareness Strategy: A robust communication plan involving media, community leaders, and influencers to drive participation and understanding among citizens.
•📦 Procurement Updates: Transparent acquisition of equipment, materials, and services with a focus on value for money and timely delivery.
•🔗 Coordination Structures: Strengthened internal and external coordination frameworks to support operational efficiency.
•💰 Resource Mobilization: Current funding levels were shared, with appreciation for government and partner support, while highlighting the need for continued financial backing.
Looking Ahead
Interactive sessions enabled committee members to provide technical feedback, raise pertinent questions, and offer actionable recommendations. The deliberations underscored a shared commitment to delivering a comprehensive, inclusive, and high-quality national census.
The engagement concluded with optimism and a shared sense of purpose. With sustained collaboration, adequate funding, and adherence to international standards, the 2026 Census is firmly on track to provide the reliable, timely, and accurate data that Sierra Leone needs for informed policymaking and national development.
Stats SL Communications & PR Unit
