Stats-SL Drives Public Confidence Ahead of 2026 Census

By Abdul Rahman Bah

As Sierra Leone prepares for the 2026 National Population and Housing Census, the role of Samuel Ansumana, Director of Communications at Statistics Sierra Leone, stands out as an important part of the country’s preparations for this critical national exercise.

The census is not merely about counting the population; it is about understanding the country, identifying development priorities and providing reliable information to guide national decision-making. From education and healthcare to infrastructure, housing and social protection, accurate population data remains essential to effective governance and sustainable development.

In this regard, Ansumana’s communication responsibility is particularly significant. Ensuring that citizens understand the purpose and importance of the census requires strategic public engagement, consistent information sharing and effective collaboration with the media.

His role presents an opportunity to strengthen the relationship between Statistics Sierra Leone and the public by making census information accessible to ordinary citizens. Through radio and television discussions, community sensitisation, social media engagement and partnerships with journalists, the institution can reach people across different communities, including remote and hard-to-reach areas.

One of the encouraging aspects of the census preparations is the growing recognition that public participation is central to its success. However, citizens must be adequately informed about the exercise, particularly how their information will be collected, protected and used. Clear communication will help address misconceptions and encourage households to cooperate with enumerators.

The 2026 Census also carries significant importance for national development planning. Its findings are expected to provide valuable information for government institutions, development partners and policymakers in determining where resources and public services are most needed. Accurate population figures can help guide decisions on schools, hospitals, roads, electricity, water supply and other essential services.

Ansumana’s contribution, therefore, goes beyond public announcements. It involves helping citizens appreciate the connection between accurate population information and improved service delivery. When people understand that their participation can help shape development priorities, they are more likely to take ownership of the process.

Equally important is the need for Statistics Sierra Leone to maintain transparency, professionalism and public confidence throughout the exercise. Given the potential implications of census data for constituency delimitation, district planning and resource allocation, the institution must ensure that the process is credible, inclusive and free from political interference.

While communication is essential, effective coordination, adequate funding, trained enumerators and reliable logistics will also determine the overall success of the exercise. Public sensitisation must be matched by strong technical implementation.

As Director of Communications, Ansumana has an important responsibility to ensure that the institution maintains an open and constructive relationship with the media. Journalists should have access to timely information, regular briefings and opportunities to seek clarification on issues surrounding the census.

Ultimately, the 2026 Census presents Sierra Leone with an opportunity to strengthen evidence-based governance and improve national development planning. It requires the collective participation of government, traditional authorities, civil society, the media and ordinary citizens.

For Samuel Ansumana and his communications team, the task is clear: build public awareness, strengthen confidence and encourage every Sierra Leonean to participate. A credible census begins with effective communication, but its greatest achievement will be the positive impact its findings make on the lives of citizens.