Statistics Sierra Leone (STATS SL) has officially launched the 2026 Mock Census in Dodo Chiefdom, Kenema District, marking a significant step in preparations for the nationwide Population and Housing Census scheduled for December 2026.

The launch ceremony took place on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at the sectional headquarters in Bowohun and brought together traditional leaders, census officials, stakeholders, and members of the community.

The event featured a range of public awareness activities aimed at sensitising residents to the importance of the exercise. These included stakeholder engagement meetings, loudspeaker announcements, door-to-door sensitisation campaigns, and a public procession involving branded vehicles and motorbikes. The awareness campaign was complemented by cultural performances and announcements delivered in local languages to encourage community participation.

Speaking at the launch, Mock Census Field Coordinator for Dodo Chiefdom, Vandy Saawah, said the exercise is intended to test the operational systems and field procedures that will be used during the national census. He explained that the mock census will help identify and address potential challenges before the commencement of the nationwide enumeration in December.

Related News

Saawah emphasised that lessons learned from the pilot exercise will strengthen planning, logistics, and data collection processes, ensuring the successful implementation of the national Population and Housing Census.

Traditional authorities pledged their full support for the exercise. Senior Section Chief Brima Momodu Kuteh assured Statistics Sierra Leone of the cooperation of residents throughout the enumeration process, while Chief Mohamed Kallon of Gaulah expressed appreciation for the selection of Mbowohun as one of the locations for the pilot exercise.

District Census Officer for Kenema District, Bockarie Luwama, called on residents to cooperate with census personnel as enumeration commenced on July 20, 2026. He also directed supervisors and enumerators to report to their assigned areas and carry out their responsibilities professionally to ensure accurate and reliable data collection.

The mock census will be conducted across three sections of Dodo Chiefdom, replicating the full operational procedures planned for the national Population and Housing Census.

Statistics Sierra Leone says the exercise forms part of its broader efforts to evaluate field operations, strengthen census preparedness, and ensure the delivery of credible and comprehensive population data to support national planning and development.