The Statistician-General of Sierra Leone and Chief Census Officer for the upcoming 2026 Decennial Population and Housing Census, Mr. Andrew Bob Johnny, delivered an insightful and resounding statement at the 2025 Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ) Triennial Elective Congress held at Bintumani Hotel, Aberdeen.
Mr. Johnny praised SLAJ for its unwavering dedication to press freedom, professional integrity, and public accountability. He emphasized the vital role of the media as a strategic partner in promoting data-driven decision-making and fostering a culture of evidence-based dialogue throughout Sierra Leone.
During his address, Mr. Johnny provided a comprehensive update on the census preparations, outlining several significant milestones already achieved:
- Establishment of the Census Administrative and Organisational Framework, including Advisory, Technical, and Publicity Committees.
- Completion of Training of Trainers (ToT) sessions focused on Census Cartography.
- Ongoing recruitment of cartographic and secretariat personnel.
- Launch of Pilot Cartographic Mapping scheduled for 14th June in Dema Chiefdom (Bonthe), Kissi Teng Chiefdom (Kailahun), Mara Chiefdom (Bombali), and several locations in Freetown East.
- Appointment of a Chief Technical Adviser and a Cartographic Consultant with support from UNFPA.
- Procurement of essential field equipment including 35 XL motorbikes, 500 Stats SL-branded digital tablets, and 500 high-capacity power banks.
- A robust financial commitment from the government, highlighted by an initial disbursement of $2.5 million towards 2025 census activities.
Mr. Johnny underscored the importance of the media’s role in the census process, stressing its responsibility in public education, transparency, and securing nationwide support for the exercise.
“Your collaboration is vital in educating, informing, and ensuring public understanding, transparency, and national buy-in for this essential national exercise,” he remarked.
He concluded by commending SLAJ for its steadfast service to the nation through ethical and professional journalism, reaffirming the association’s crucial role in media development, protection of journalists’ welfare, and advocacy for freedom of expression.
The 2026 Census marks a critical step toward better data for national planning, and the cooperation between Sierra Leone’s statisticians and journalists promises to enhance the transparency and success of this nationwide effort.
