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As preparations intensify for the 2025 Population and Housing Census, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has formally introduced Edouard Talnan as the Census Chief Technical Adviser (CTA) to Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL).
The presentation, held at the Stats SL headquarters, was attended by key stakeholders, including UNFPA Country Representative Nadia Rasheed, Stats SL Council Chairman Moses Williams, Statistician General Andrew Bob Johnny, and other senior officials.
In her remarks, Ms. Rasheed underscored the critical role of the census in national development, describing it as a complex but essential data-gathering exercise. She reaffirmed UNFPA’s unwavering support for Stats SL, highlighting the organization’s commitment to ensuring an inclusive and innovative 2025 census. She also announced the imminent arrival of a Census Assessment Team tasked with developing a strategic roadmap to guide the entire process.
Statistician General Andrew Bob Johnny, who also serves as the Chief Census Officer, outlined the progress made since the Presidential Proclamation authorized the 2025 census. He noted the establishment of a Census Secretariat, consultations with government and stakeholders, and the inauguration of key committees, including advisory, technical, and publicity teams. He emphasized that adequate resources, coupled with continued government and partner support, are essential for a successful census.
Moses Williams, Chairman of Stats SL Council, praised UNFPA’s longstanding support and assured the CTA of a conducive working environment.
Deputy UNFPA Country Representative Sibeso Mululuma formally presented Mr. Talnan, highlighting his extensive experience in managing censuses across Africa, including his leadership of Liberia’s recently concluded census.
With the introduction of the CTA and ongoing preparatory measures, Stats SL expressed confidence in delivering a groundbreaking and accurate 2025 Population and Housing Census.
