Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL) has provided an update on preparations for the 2026 Population and Housing Census, confirming a revised schedule following an independent technical review.

President Julius Maada Bio previously declared the census would be fully digital and professionally conducted. In January 2025, experts from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the U.S. Census Bureau, and the UN Economic Commission for Africa assessed the process and recommended additional time and technical support to ensure international standards are met.

As a result, the main census enumeration has been rescheduled to December 2026, with a Pilot Census set for December 2025 to test systems ahead of the full exercise.

Despite the revised timeline, Stats SL reports significant progress in preparations. Key advisory, technical, and publicity committees are actively engaged, comprising representatives from diverse sectors including political parties, civil society, traditional authorities, the media, and various government institutions. District Census Management Committees are also operational nationwide, ensuring local coordination.

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A comprehensive Census Project Document outlining methodology, budgeting, logistics, and communication strategies has been drafted and shared with international partners. Cartographic mapping is slated to begin in July 2025, and training for Master Trainers is already in progress.

Stats SL recently concluded an open online application process for key census roles, receiving over 11,000 applications. Shortlisting and interviews for these positions are set to commence soon.

The government has demonstrated its commitment to the census by allocating $6.5 million for 2025, with ongoing support from the UNFPA and other development partners.

Stats SL reiterated its dedication to conducting a “transparent, inclusive, and credible census.” The agency underscored the census’s crucial role in national development, noting its importance in determining the equitable distribution of public services such as schools, hospitals, and roads.

“The census should be embraced as a civic responsibility, not politicized,” Stats SL urged, encouraging all Sierra Leoneans to support the exercise and refrain from “sowing unwarranted doubts or mistrust.” The agency stressed that a successful census hinges on “everyone’s active participation and trust.”

The public is encouraged to direct any questions, suggestions, or concerns to Stats SL offices nationwide or visit their website at www.statistics.sl. The agency stated its commitment to public engagement, listening, clarifying, and collaborative efforts to ensure an inclusive census process.