Statistics Sierra Leone Hosts Data & Producers Workshop Ahead Of 2026 Census
By Fatmata Mohamed Bangura
Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL), in collaboration with Ministry of Information and Civil Education successful hosted a two-day data users and producers workshop for the upcoming 2026 Sierra Leone Population and Housing Census at the Sierra Palms Hotel at Lumley Beach Road Freetown.
The workshop aimed at assessing the data needs of diverse stakeholders and gather critical feedback on proposed changes and topics of inclusion in the 2026 census.
Participants included representatives from Government Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), the private sector, international development partners, research and the media organisations, the entertainment industry among others.
Mr. Moses Williams, Chairman of the Statistics SL and Chair of the Census Advisory Committee said that inclusivity is a fundamental principle for a successful 2026 Census and encouraged active participation, stronger partnership, and a shared commitment to national development.
The workshop was officially opened by the Minister of Information and Civil Education Chernor Bah who stressed the important of inclusive and participatory engagement in the census process.
He said that to maximise the value of the census, the entire process must be inclusive, participatory and responsive to the needs of both data users and producers noting that as the very purpose of the workshop.
He stated that the collective experiences, insights, and recommendations that will be gathered will be the key in shaping a census that truly reflects Sierra Leone’s realities and informs the policies that will shape the future.
The Director of Census and Geographic Information System (GIS) and National Census Coordinator Abdulai Salia Brima outlined the proposed topics, tabulations, and dissemination strategy for the 2026 census.
Participants were given the opportunity to ask questions, raise concerns, and provide feedback on the process, ensuring their voice contribute meaningful in shaping the final census design.
Participants were also given the opportunity to choose logos and slogan for the census.
The slogan for the 2026 census is LEH DEM COUNT YU OOOH! BE COUNTED is the English version.
The workshop concluded with renewed hope and collective commitment to producing credible and high-quality data essential for planning inclusive policies and addressing the needs of all segments of Sierra Leone’s population.
