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Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL) has initiated community engagement efforts for the upcoming 2026 Population and Housing Census (PHC), holding a Civic Day Series event in Moyamba District on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.
The session, held at the Moyamba District Council Hall, was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Civic Education (MoICE).
The event drew a wide range of attendees, including prominent government officials such as Resident Minister of the Southern Region, Hon. John Abu; Chairman of the Moyamba District Council, Joseph Benedict Mbogba; host Paramount Chief Foday Momoh Golama; Minister of Tertiary and Higher Education, Dr. Ramatulai Wurie; Minister of Local Government, Tamba Lamina; and Minister of Trade and Industry, Alpha Sesay. Also present were representatives from traditional and local authorities, market women, youth and student groups, the disabled community, transport unions, security personnel, and school pupils.
Mr. Lansana Kpewolo Kanneh, Deputy Statistician General of Stats SL, underscored the substantial financial commitments made by the Government of Sierra Leone and its development partners for the 2026 PHC.
He noted that procurement is already underway for essential resources, including digital tablets, advanced IT infrastructure, mapping software, vehicles, and motorcycles, all intended to enhance Geographic Information System (GIS) and cartographic mapping exercises.
Kanneh assured attendees that the census process would be guided by principles of transparency, impartiality, and inclusivity. He also confirmed that field staff for the cartographic phase would be recruited from within their respective local districts, fostering community involvement and representation.
“The recruitment process for the census cartography is progressing smoothly. All field staff will be selected from their respective districts of origin,” Kanneh stated. “With the backing of traditional authorities and the District Census Management Committee, we are poised to execute a successful cartographic mapping exercise.”
He emphasized that full community participation and support are crucial for the accuracy of the data collected, which is vital for informed decision-making and effective national development planning.
The town hall meeting provided an interactive platform for open dialogue, allowing residents to raise questions, express concerns, and offer feedback during a dynamic Q&A session. The event concluded with collective optimism among stakeholders regarding the credibility and successful execution of the upcoming 2026 Census.
