Statistics Sierra Leone and Ministry of Planning Officially Launch 2026 Census
By, Reginald Brian Ojukutu Sawyerr
The Government of Sierra Leone, through Statistics Sierra Leone and the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, on the 1st December 2025 officially launched the 2026 Decennial Census during a high-level ceremony held at the Bintumani Conference Center in Freetown. The event marked the formal commencement of national preparations for one of the country’s most important data-gathering exercises.
The conference hall was filled with government officials, development partners, civil society representatives, and members of the media all gathered to witness the unveiling of the new census roadmap, which will guide national planning and resource allocation in the coming decade.
Delivering the first welcome address, Madam Kayan Balay, Minister of Planning and Economic Development, emphasized the central role of accurate data in shaping Sierra Leone’s future. She noted that the 2026 census will not only count the population but also provide critical insights for policymaking, service delivery, and development planning.
“Our nation is at a pivotal moment,” she said. “Reliable data is the foundation on which we build effective policies, allocate resources fairly, and measure our progress. The 2026 Census will give us the tools we need to plan with precision and to ensure no Sierra Leonean is left behind.”
Following her remarks, Mr. Bob Jonny, Statistician-General and Chief Census Officer for the 2026 Decennial Census, outlined the technical preparations underway. He highlighted advancements in digital data collection, improved training for enumerators, and stronger systems designed to ensure transparency and accuracy.
“This census will be our most modern and technologically advanced,” Mr. Jonny announced. “We are committed to delivering a credible, inclusive, and comprehensive count that reflects the realities of every community in Sierra Leone.”
The climax of the ceremony came with the official launch pronouncement delivered by Chief Minister David Moinina Sengeh, who underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to evidence-based governance. He praised the collaborative efforts leading up to the launch and called on citizens across the country to fully participate when enumeration begins.
“A successful census requires the involvement of everyone.
