Statistics Sierra Leone has officially launched a nationwide mock census and kicked off intensive training for 200 supervisors and enumerators across Freetown, Makeni, and Bo.
This 10-day training program is designed to equip field staff with the necessary digital skills to conduct a mock headcount next month, serving as a critical trial run ahead of the official national population and housing census scheduled for December 2, 2026.
Taking place in selected districts, the fieldwork will use tablet computers to test logistics, administrative procedures, and data collection systems under a fully digital transition.
The mock census follows specific recommendations from a December 2025 pilot census, which independent monitors and international experts reviewed to address operational weaknesses. By intentionally over-training 200 field staff to ensure a reliable backup reserve, census coordinators Abdulai Brima and James Medo expressed confidence that the country is hitting its key preparation milestones on time.
Backed by technical assistance from Ghana and financial support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the initiative is supported by expanded public awareness campaigns urging citizens to cooperate for accurate national data and improved future policy planning.
ABJ/APA