Statistics Sierra Leone Requests US$34 Million for 2025 Census

On August 27, 2024, Statistics Sierra Leone presented its proposed budget for 2025 during the national budget hearings at the Ministry of Finance.

The institution is requesting a substantial US$34 million to fund the upcoming population and housing census.

Lansana Kanneh, Deputy Statistician General, outlined the key objectives of the budget, emphasizing the need for significant investment to support the organization’s various initiatives. The requested funds will cover several critical areas, including:

US$34 million for conducting the 2025 population and housing census.

US$2.14 million for the provision of socioeconomic and demographic statistics.

US$1.5 million for developing a new Statistics Sierra Leone Act.

US$4.4 million for rehabilitating the headquarters.

US$1.5 million for refurbishing regional offices.

Kanneh emphasized that Statistics Sierra Leone’s mandate is to deliver accurate data essential for national development. He highlighted the institution’s plans to improve its infrastructure, enhance staff capacity, and undertake a range of research and data collection activities. Notable achievements in 2023 included publishing the Consumer Price Index (CPI), national account statistics, and conducting a disability study with UNICEF support.

Despite these accomplishments, Kanneh acknowledged several challenges facing the institution, including inadequate funding disbursements, low salaries, and an unsatisfactory working environment. These issues pose significant obstacles to effectively carrying out their mandate and achieving their strategic goals.

The proposed budget reflects the institution’s commitment to advancing data collection and analysis capabilities, crucial for informed decision-making and national planning.