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). On 14th October 2025, the initiative represents a critical milestone in the country’s journey toward producing accurate and inclusive national data.

The announcement was made by the Statistician-General and Chief Census Officer, Mr. Andrew Bob Johnny, at Stats SL’s temporary headquarters at 1B King Street, Kona Lodge, Freetown. Mr. Johnny emphasized that the mapping phase forms the backbone of a credible and transparent census process.

“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,” said Mr. Johnny. “The accuracy of the 2026 Census depends on the success of this very exercise.”

The cartographic mapping, conducted with technical support from GIS and Cartographic Mapping Consultant Dr. Foluke Adebayo, will focus on identifying and delineating enumeration areas, numbering all localities, and geo-referencing every physical structure across Sierra Leone. This process guarantees that each individual and household will be counted once—and in the correct location when the census takes place in 2026.

Between October 2025 and 2026, trained field staff will be deployed nationwide to carry out this work in both urban and rural communities. Field officers will be easily identifiable by their official Census ID cards, branded T-shirts and caps, and digital tablets used for data collection.

Stats SL is appealing to all residents, community leaders, traditional authorities, and local government representatives to extend their full cooperation to 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 not merely a statistical operation but a strategic tool for national development. The data generated will help the government and development partners make informed decisions in critical sectors such as education, health, infrastructure, and social protection.

Stats SL is therefore encouraging the public to warmly welcome and support the mapping teams as they undertake this essential national exercise, laying the foundation for a successful and impactful 2026 Census.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Wednesday, 15th October 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)