Statistics Sierra Leone Intensifies 2026 Census Preparations at High-Level Makeni Retreat

Statistics Sierra Leone has convened its third council retreat in Makeni, bringing together directors, as well as newly appointed and returning council members, in a renewed effort to strengthen institutional readiness ahead of the 2026 National Population and Housing Census.

The two-day session, taking place from April 16 to 17 at the Mena Hill Conference Hall, was officially opened by Council Chairman Moses Williams. The retreat is focused on aligning strategies and enhancing coordination across key departments responsible for delivering credible national data.

In his remarks, Statistician General and Chief Census Officer Andrew Bob Johnny commended the council for its continued support and reaffirmed his commitment to leading the institution toward a successful census exercise in 2026. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and preparedness in ensuring the credibility and reliability of national statistics.

Deliberations on the first day centered on critical technical and operational areas necessary for census preparedness and effective national statistics management. Senior directors presented updates on a wide range of thematic areas, including census coordination, economic statistics, demographic and social data, data science, national statistical systems, communications, and administrative functions.

Further discussions are addressing internal audit and compliance mechanisms, logistics readiness, project coordination, human resource development, and procurement processes. These sessions reflect a comprehensive institutional push to improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the lead-up to the census.

The retreat is expected to consolidate the council’s strategic direction and reinforce institutional coordination as Sierra Leone advances toward conducting a credible and successful 2026 National Population and Housing Census.

Statistics Sierra Leone continues to position itself at the forefront of national data production under the rallying call: “Census 2026! Leh Den Kont You Oh!”