By Joseph Momoh, Daily Scope Reporter
Freetown, October 14, 2025 – Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL) has officially launched a nationwide cartographic mapping exercise in preparation for the upcoming 2026 Population and Housing Census (PHC ’26). This initiative marks a significant step toward the country’s most extensive national data collection effort.
During the announcement at Stats SL’s temporary headquarters on King Street, Statistician-General and Chief Census Officer Mr. Andrew Bob Johnny emphasized the critical role of this foundational phase in ensuring a credible, inclusive, and comprehensive census.
The cartographic mapping exercise, supported by GIS and Cartographic Mapping Consultant Dr. Foluke Adebayo, involves identifying and delineating enumeration areas, as well as systematically numbering all localities and physical structures nationwide. This meticulous process is designed to ensure that every individual and household is counted accurately during the census.
“Mapping is a crucial step in the census process. It allows us to plan effectively, allocate resources equitably, and ensure that no one is left behind,” Mr. Johnny stated. “The accuracy of the 2026 Census depends on the success of this very exercise.”
From October 2025 through early 2026, trained field staff will be deployed across urban and rural communities, identifiable by their official Census ID cards, branded apparel, and digital tablets used for data collection.
Stats SL is urging all residents, community leaders, traditional authorities, and local government officials to fully cooperate with the mapping teams.
“We are counting on the cooperation of every Sierra Leonean to make this exercise a success,” Mr. Johnny added. “Your support is vital to producing reliable data that will guide national planning, inform policies, improve service delivery, and ensure equitable resource distribution.”
The 2026 Population and Housing Census is more than just a statistical operation; it is a strategic tool for national development. Accurate and timely data will empower informed decision-making across key sectors, including education, health, infrastructure, and social protection.
Stats SL encourages the public to welcome the mapping teams and actively support this essential national exercise, laying the groundwork for a successful and impactful census.
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