Deputy Statistician General Speaks on Census Preparedness

The Deputy Statistician General of Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL), Mr. Lansana Kpewolo Kanneh, has emphasized the significant financial investments made by the Government of Sierra Leone and its development partners in preparation for the 2026 Population and Housing Census (PHC). Speaking at a town hall meeting in Moyamba District, Mr. Kanneh announced that procurement processes are already underway for essential tools and infrastructure, including digital tablets, IT systems, mapping software, vehicles, and motorcycles. These resources will support the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and cartographic mapping phases of the census. He stressed that the census would be guided by the principles of transparency, impartiality, and inclusivity. Mr. Kanneh also assured attendees that all field staff involved in the cartographic mapping phase would be recruited locally from their respective districts. “The recruitment process for census cartography is progressing well. With support from traditional leaders and the District Census Management Committee, we’re confident of delivering a successful mapping exercise,” he said. He called on community members to actively participate and support the census process, underlining that accurate data is critical for effective policy-making and national development. The town hall meeting, part of the Civic Day Series and organized in partnership with the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE), brought the 2026 Census message directly to the people of Moyamba. The engagement attracted key government officials, including:

Hon. John Abu, Resident Minister – Southern Region

Joseph Benedict Mbogba, Chairman – Moyamba District Council

Paramount Chief Foday Momoh Golama (host)

Dr. Ramatulai Wurie, Minister of Tertiary and Higher Education

Tamba Lamina, Minister of Local Government

Alpha Sesay, Minister of Trade and Industry

Other participants included paramount chiefs from across the district, traditional and local leaders, market women, youth and student groups, the disabled community, bike riders’ and motor drivers’ unions, security representatives, and school pupils. The event served as a platform for open dialogue, where residents asked questions, voiced concerns, and provided feedback. It concluded with a shared sense of optimism and confidence in the credibility and success of the upcoming 2026 Census.