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Sierra Leone’s Minister of Health, Dr Austin Demby, has officially launched the 2026 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS), describing quality data as a critical foundation for building a stronger, more resilient, and inclusive healthcare system.
Speaking at the launch ceremony held on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, Dr Demby emphasised the importance of reliable health information in guiding government policies, improving service delivery, and ensuring that healthcare interventions effectively reach all segments of the population.
“Quality data is the backbone to building a stronger, resilient and more inclusive healthcare system that ensures that no one is left behind,” Dr Demby stated.
The 2026 DHS is expected to generate nationally representative data on key health and demographic indicators, including maternal and child health, nutrition, fertility, mortality, and other areas essential to national development planning.
The findings from the survey will support the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders in measuring progress made in the health sector, identifying existing gaps, and directing resources towards areas where they are most needed.
As part of preparations for the nationwide exercise, 188 participants comprising interviewers, health officials, statisticians, counsellors, and laboratory technicians have commenced a month-long training programme on health data collection techniques.
Following the completion of the training and selection process, successful participants will be deployed across communities nationwide to collect information directly from households. The exercise is aimed at ensuring that the survey captures accurate and representative data reflecting the health realities of Sierra Leoneans.
The Demographic and Health Survey remains a key tool for strengthening national health planning by providing evidence needed to design effective interventions, monitor outcomes, and improve the overall wellbeing of the population.
